Your purse says a lot about you. Woven basket? Ready for a picnic and would run off to Paris in a moment's notice. Sleek belt bag? Mobility is key and the likelihood of spending the day touristing around town is high. A bag is an extension of your life, and the one you choose to carry every day can complement your personal style. All throughout fashion week, show-goers carried a range of eye-grabbing options including mini duffles, acrylic clutches, "lady" bags, and a fancy fanny pack or two. However, 2019's latest bag trend? Crafty and cool top handles. Whether it's by way of wood beads, tortoiseshell, wood, glass, faux fur, resin, or something even more unexpected — one thing is for certain: your next bag purchase should involve a very cool handle.
There will always be a place for crossbody bags or work-friendly totes, but branching out from the practical for a little something fun is a great way to kick off a new season. Options in a variety of playful shapes (bucket, structured, pouch), colors and even textures are already available for spring and thankfully the trend translates seamlessly year-round, for both daytime and nighttime dressing. Go for a version from the every-so-trendy Cult Gaia or perhaps a budget-friendly iteration by way of Loeffler Randall. There are also riffs from long-favorited brands like Rachel Comey, Marni, or Lizzie Fortunato. Ahead, chic outfits involving a cool handle and plenty of shopping options to help you get the look.
What better way to signal the start of spring than with a grass green bag? This fringe version from Cult Gaia would make for the perfect party companion. Style it with a camisole and slip skirt or a floral midi dress for a seasonal look.
Sometimes all it takes to make a bag feel extra special is changing a handle from metal to something akin to enamel. It feels more sculpture and contrasts the texture of the piece beautifully.
Is there ever a time when a bunch of cute beads didn't make something feel more special? This monochrome version goes from ordinary to outstanding with the subtle (yet substantial) addition of dainty rouge beads.
If you're giving the woven basket bag another go this spring (good idea) why not give the trend a small update? Reach for a version that has a tortoiseshell handle to add an extra element of texture and color without feeling overwhelming.
No matter the time of year or the occasion, a little faux-fur trim is always a good idea. This fun embellishment, when placed on a bag handle, transforms the piece into the ultimate statement accessory. In other words, everyone will be asking where you got it and where they can find it — jackpot.
