Under The Radar Bag Trends For 2024
The big (and little) handbag trends you need to know about, plus some vintage alternatives and contemporary designers I’m obsessing over!
Every season, there’s some overarching trends that most large publications talk about (big bags are on trend… micro bags are on trend… thanks), but what about all the nuanced details that are what are actually driving people to buy new bags? Like what makes THAT big bag stand out from all the others? Now trends are just that- details that are in one minute and out the next. But what’s so interesting about fashion (and maybe more noticeable now that I’m to an age where I’ve seen trends actually come back in fashion again after wearing them as a teenager) is that we can look to a lot of vintage pieces and see the references. Some are more literal reissues and some may not ever mention the inspiration until you dig back in the archives, but I always find this fun to look at!
So here’s some interesting bag trends that we will see more in 2024!
Pony Hair/Calf Hair Bags:
There’s a few terms these can go by, but “hair” bags are having a comeback.
From Phoebe Philo’s tote, to Gucci’s new hobo with the slim horsebit, more of these are popping up. And did you catch my recent Vintage Tom Ford Gucci handbag unboxing for my 31 Days of Vintage Series on IG?!
We are also seeing this trend in footwear. I have these clogs (code NAT15 for 15% off site) that I’ve been wearing nonstop!
Charms/Personalized Bags:
It was not that many years ago we were hanging furry animal charms off our bags, but bag accessories are back! It’s a little less bold this time, and more of adding personal touches to bags. While models had their belongings spilling out of their bags on the runways (I feel seen as a toddler mom lol) I think the trend will be just adding a little something fun and different to a bag to set it apart from everyone else. I personally love this trend, as I’m always wanting my bags to feel personal to me and my style. It can be as simple as doubling up a mini bag onto a larger bag, or even just adding a cool necklace dangling off a handle. It’s all about adding a little fun and whimsy.
I also plan to hang my initial necklace (NATALIE20 for 20% off) onto the handle of a bag for a little special touch!
East West Style Bags:
While North/South Totes may be dominating, East West bags of the smaller variety are popping up everywhere. I just reviewed THIS The Row Bag, but there’s also several other The Row bag varieties in this elongated shape. Some of my favorite styles are actually coming from more contemporary bag designers like this Hereu bag (also here) or this aesther ekme bag.
I’ve also rounded up some vintage and Preloved styles here for your browsing pleasure.
Net/Woven/Mesh Bags:
While styles like these pop up every spring (groundbreaking…) the versions this year will be in different materials and textures to the usual raffia and netting market totes. Alaia leads the way with this oversized mesh tote that matches their ballet flats that have been some of the most coveted shoes over the past year (similar style here for the look for less).
This seems like a more practical (and less expensive) way to try the trend:
I just picked up this leather market tote that feels more elevated than the usual woven styles.
Weekly Roundup:
YouTube: Reviewing The Row East/ West Shoulder Bag
Instagram: How To Style White Jeans In The Winter , these white jeans I absolutely love- I have in 3 color ways and the fit and length is perfect on me (I’m 5’3” so the length as a cropped regular is perfect ankle length! I size up 1 size in this style)
Adding To Cart:
Been eyeing this linen t-shirt for awhile from one of my favorite quality basics brands- they also do my most worn tank tops (code NAT15 for 15% off first orders) - Adds texture and interest to a simple outfit. And picked up the tank in grey (I have both the black and white already, I wear an xs in those, they have a lot of stretch and I like them to fit smoothly.
What bag trends are you excited for this year?!
Thanks for reading, talk soon! Xo Natalie
Another excellent post! Thank you!!!