In the Bag: Trends to Try Now
Handbag inspiration for the magpie, the minimalist, the Liberty lover and more
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In the Bag: Trends to Try Now
Handbag inspiration for the magpie, the minimalist, the Liberty lover and more
You’ve probably noticed a popular video format that’s been going viral for the past few years. The concept is called ‘What’s in my bag?’, a short vignette where someone stylish and interesting reveals the contents of their trusted sidekick. As someone whose mother always told them it was taboo to look through someone’s handbag, there’s a forbidden fruit factor to this kind of voyeurism. But the focus on what’s inside the bag disguises the other reason we enjoy this type of content so much. Arm candy is visual candy, and it’s a delight to rest your gaze on a beautifully crafted bag. If you’re in need of something easy on the eyes, here are the handbag trends to look out for at Liberty this season. To have, to hold - and to fill with whatever you keep in yours.
Feel Appeal
Simple and essentialist is always a chic brief for a winter outfit. The best way to pull it off is to ensure there are enough small details to keep the look interesting - and minimalism loves texture. Try wearing your cosy neutral knits and elegant wool coats with a textured handbag to add some subtle extra dimension, either a shiny mock croc from GANNI, or something soft and squishy like Demellier’s Miami bag, complete with contrasting gold hardware. For something more pared back, Sézane’s classic tote in camel suede is a nod to the refined Parisienne.
Carte Blanche
When I lived in New York, I learned of a uniquely American rule that stipulates that you can’t wear white after Labour Day (the first Monday of September). It’s not a rule that anyone takes seriously - instead the national holiday is seen more as a symbol of the end of summer. A gateway to the russet-tinged autumn days, and soon after, the inky early winter evenings. The same goes for London, where the streets are populated with dark, shadowy tones throughout the colder months. So why not do something different, rebellious even, and try wearing white in winter? And if you fear the impracticality of an all-white outfit, try a bag instead. Issey Miyake’s Bao Bao is a playful option, whilst Loewe’s buttery leather is as indulgent and luxurious as jersey double cream.
Shine On
Celebrate the spirit of sparkling festive lights and holiday parties with an equally shiny accessory. Acne Studios’ crinkled purple handbag reminds me of the foil wrapper on everyone’s favourite Quality Street chocolate (the purple one) - a Christmas culinary staple. For something more simple, their gunmetal grey mini tote has a modern, industrial edge. Alternatively, you can add a metallic strap like Rothy’s or Loewe’s for a more subtle gold detail, or even layer them onto your existing bag for a maximalist, embellished effect.
Small and Sleek
But maybe you don’t want to wear a textured bag, or a white bag, or a shiny bag. You just want a small, sleek black handbag - a timeless classic that you can wear with anything. For chic, easy styles try Jil Sander’s Tangle bag, Acne Studios’ minior micro Musubisu or new brand Strathberry’s mini tote. The moon silhouette is also an elegant option, either Mansur Gavriel’s sling style or Toteme’s asymmetric Scoop version. For a patent leather bag, A.P.C.'s Sac Sarah bag has a gorgeously glossy finish that complements its simple shape.
Liberty Lover
For the Liberty lover, there’s lots to choose from this season. You’ll never get your luggage mixed up with someone else when travelling with the blue Iphis weekender, nor will you lose your keys in the Nano Berkley bag - so small and dainty that it hardly fits anything else. For a structured everyday bag, the Burlington’s grained calfskin leather is a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, as is the simple but sophisticated Marlborough tote. If you’re feeling brave, try the banana yellow colourway.
Red Hot
That said, nothing says brave like a bright red bag. Sézane’s glossy patent leather tote is the handbag equivalent of a perfectly painted red lip, whilst Ganni’s riveted Bucky is ready for a night out. For something whimsical, Anya Hindmarch’s new collection features a Coke can coin purse, or there’s our own Liberty Marlborough bag charm, a tiny version of the original - guaranteed to make you smile. For something a bit less bold, Loewe and Loulou Studio have some gorgeous claret options.
