The 7 Fall Bag Trends That Are Taking Over Instagram Right Now

In today’s fashion landscape, trends are born on Instagram as much as on the runway. Influencer accounts demonstrate how to incorporate designer trends for real-world wear — an invaluable resource as you plan what wardrobe updates to make and which new pieces to buy. The best place to start? A brand new bag. Trendsetters are already showcasing an exciting array of fresh new styles, but there are a few standout fall bag trends emerging on Instagram that are going to be especially big in the coming months.

While the runways deliver on broader, more overarching themes for the season, Instagram spotlights the niche hits and contemporary up-and-comers that maybe didn’t get the same focused attention during Fashion Month. For example, back in February it was clear that micro-bags and structured styles would be significant come September. Now, these broad motifs have been honed in specific ways online. Tiny bags are being worn around the neck. And when it comes to structured styles, influencers are all about vintage-inspired frame bags right now. Then, there are the viral obsessions that are suddenly everywhere on Instagram, seemingly overnight. The Pouch from Bottega Veneta’s latest lineup was the definitive It bag of summer, and will continue to reign supreme in the coming season. Keep scrolling below to see and shop the seven biggest handbag trends that are taking over your social media this fall.

The Oversized Pouch

Bottega Veneta’s The Pouch has become a trend in and of itself. The singular It bag is coveted by influencers, editors, and celebrities alike, but good luck getting your hands on one. The popular style is scarcely available in any of its colorways, and it's always a race to snap one up the moment it’s back in stock. The roomy, gathered leather clutch is not entirely original to Daniel Lee’s collection — similar styles were showcased at Céline Spring/Summer 2018 and at Jil Sander Fall/Winter 2018 — but the #NewBottega version has reached a cult status that far surpasses any of its predecessors. And of course, its success has inspired a wave of derivations, most recent being Mansur Gavriel’s Cloud Clutch. New, minimalist accessories brand Studio Amelia will also be launching a comparable leather pouch for Resort 2020, though it features a drawstring closure instead of a hinged frame, and was originally planned as an insert for a box bag before its standalone potential was realized.

Chunky Chain Details

Chunky chains aren’t just a jewelry trend, the motif is having a moment in the handbag sector too. The look is elegant and edgy in equal measure. Think classic, timeless shapes in sleek, glossy leather or luxe quilted textures, appointed with heavy metal hardware like thick curb chain straps or a gold padlock clasp.

Nothing But Neck

Pushing hands-free to the next level, fashion girls have taken to wearing their bags around the neck. Thanks to the recent influx of impossibly petite styles, sometimes the necklace bag is purely for show, not for actually holding any items. If you’re not one for impracticality, there are slightly larger styles that will hold a couple cards and maybe a lipstick.

Soft And Huggable

Mini and micro bags have their place in your wardrobe, but in a refreshing turn of events, cuddly, oversized purses have started popping up all over the ‘gram. Soft and slouchy, these padded pillow bags are meant to be hugged in the crook of the elbow or clutched under your arm. It’s just the kind of cozy you’ll be glad for when the weather starts to cool.

Woven Leather Bags

If the end of summer has you sad to part with some of your favorite styles, this bag trend will help bridge the gap and ease you into an autumn mindset. A woven leather bag captures the festival spirit of those straw basket bags you love so much during warmer months, but in a material that feels more apropos for the coming season.

Knotty But Nice

A little fabric handbag is the ultimate day-to-night accessory. The latest versions all feature one significant design detail: knots. There’s something relaxed and effortless — almost makeshift — about a bag with knotted handles or a bow-tied strap. Rendered in a variety of colored satins and scarf prints, this look is unfussy yet refined. It’s the kind of understated elegance you’d expect to see from The Row, whose Ascot Bag depicts the trend at its finest. But you can also find lower price-point options from emerging and contemporary brands, such as Rejina Pyo and Staud.

Elegant Frames

Sometimes there’s just nothing better than a time-tested classic. Vintage-inspired frame bags may not be the most novel or whimsical of trends, but the newest versions on the market this season feel entirely fresh and modern. Take Ratio et Motus’ twin frame set, for example, or Chylak’s minimalist embossed leather top-handle. Polished, structured styles like these will take you from work to weekend without skipping a beat.