The handbag landscape presents a captivating dichotomy, challenging our notions of both practicality and panache. From the dramatically downsized to the luxuriously capacious. From enduring heritage styles to exuberant bursts of colour, the choices for carrying our essentials—or lack thereof—have never been more diverse. This year, the question isn't just what your bag holds, but what statement it makes about your style. Are you leaning into the bold impracticality of the micro handbag, or the generous utility of the oversized, the timeless elegance of a classic, or the mood-boosting vibrancy of a bright pop of colour? Join us as we navigate the key trends shaping our arm candy in 2025.
Oversized
The resurgence of oversized handbags blends practicality with evolving style. Their spaciousness accommodates the demands of busy modern life, offering a functional alternative to recent micro-bag trends. Influenced by runway appearances and celebrity endorsements, this comeback also echoes early 2000s fashion, presenting a more relaxed and generous aesthetic. These large bags do have a luxury price tag to match making them a forever investment piece.
Balenciaga Rodeo Handbag Large With Charms, $18900. Prada large Re-Nylon tote bag, $3240. Saben Tia shoulder bag, $600. Gucci Giglio Large Tote, $3650.
Micro Mini bags
Micro bags are on trend primarily as a fashion statement rather than a practical accessory, embodying a minimalist aesthetic and a playful rebellion against utility. Their diminutive size, really only large enough for a credit card and lippy, makes them more akin to wearable art or jewellery, popularised by celebrities and luxury brands. While they excel at adding a unique, eye-catching touch to an outfit and encouraging a "less is more" approach to carrying essentials, their limited capacity means they are generally not practical for an everyday tote that carries a phone, wallet, and other necessities. Regardless they are super cute and worth coveting.
MARC JACOBS The Nano Duffle Crossbody Bag, $355. Jacquemus The Chiquito Signature mini handbag, $1080. Celine Mini Boston Bag, $2800. Gucci GG Marmont Mini Shoulder, $2500.
classic
While micro bags captivate with their trend-driven aesthetic, classic handbags focusing on timeless elegance and practical sophistication are also trending. Structured, top-handle bags, reminiscent of vintage styles, are making a significant comeback, alongside the enduring appeal of sleek east-west silhouettes. Simultaneously, the demand for effortlessly chic, slouchy totes and hobo bags made from supple leathers or suede is rising, often reflecting a renewed interest in iconic "It" bags from past decades with subtle modern updates. The overall emphasis for classic handbags is on versatile, quality pieces in refined neutral tones and subtle colours that prioritise both enduring design and functional elegance, suitable for various occasions.
Louis Vuitton On My Side PM, $7800. Saint Laurent le 5 à 7 Supple Large, $5205. Dior Saddle Bag, $7400. Deadly Ponies Mr Midimese, $729.
Bright coloured
Bright-coloured handbags drive a desire for joy, self-expression, and a departure from the conventional. After periods of uncertainty, there's a collective craving for optimism a visual boost, and vibrant hues like butter yellow, cherry red, and emerald green. These bags are a powerful focal point for an outfit, instantly transforming even the simplest neutral outfit into a stylish statement. They reflect a growing confidence in fashion and a desire to break free from traditional norms, with designers increasingly showcasing full-spectrum palettes on runways. Do they give joy? The answer is a resounding yes for many people, including us. This phenomenon is often linked to "dopamine dressing," where choosing clothing or accessories that are exciting and visually appealing can directly elevate mood and well-being. Colours have a significant psychological impact; warm colours like yellow and orange can evoke feelings of happiness, energy, and optimism, while cool colours like bright blues and greens can bring a sense of calmness and freshness. Carrying a bright bag can be a subtle but effective way to infuse positivity into daily life, reflecting an inner happiness and allowing for a playful expression of personality that brightens not only the wearer's day but potentially those around them.
There is a style to suit any outfit.