Bags of Envy—The 7 Luxury Bag Trends We Know Will Be on Every Stylish Person’s Shoulder This Autumn

Having already reported on shoe trends for the upcoming AW25 season, naturally, I wanted to keep the research rolling, identify the major bag moments too, as seen on the shoulders or crooks of arms of models at some of our most-watched shows. I mean, what’s a great pair of shoes without a fabulous handbag to boot? The catwalks of Paris, Milan and London give rich ground for trends to build, and for certain items and pieces to come away as breakout stars of the season. Bags were most certainly at the front and centre of the runways this time around, with a selection of classics brought back from the archives, fresh takes on leather and suede variations, as well as standout hues and antique finishes.

If you’re eager to invest in your next big bag purchase (I mean, pay-day is just right around the corner), take a look at the following 7 trends and my curated shopping edit below to get you in the mood. It’s in the bag!

1. Boho Hardware

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, Chloé.)

Style Notes: Boho is back, and brands such as Chloé and Isabel Marant are doubling down on the trend via their handbags. Most notably, these bags are adorned with brass hardware, OTT fastenings, plus multiple rivets, charms and fringing. Look for options in rich burgundy, nappa leather, or classic suede and dark black for something that makes for great daily use, and pair your choice with flowing dresses, cashmere knitwear and knee boots for the Sienna Miller aesthetic.

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, Isabel Marant.)

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2. Classic Croc

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, Gabriela Hearst.)

Style Notes: I’m seeing a strong return to practical but city-proof bags, that exude glamour and sophistication. High-shine croc-effect leathers are back on doctor-style bags, top-handle totes and shoulder-friendly shapes, with gold hardware and plenty of space for a laptop or daytime essentials. These are bags made to complement your 9-5 and add a healthy dose of luxury to your autumn capsule wardrobe.

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, N21.)

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3. Feeling Fluffy

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, Fendi.)

Style Notes: With the return to autumn, there is always an inevitable craving of all things cozy, fuzzy and warming. Call it hygge. Handbags have adopted this movement, utilising all-over faux-fur fabrications, shearling and fluffy trims to go the whole hog. Giving both a sense of eye-catching fun and an ultra-luxe feel to your look, I’m noting this trend coming in the form of taupe, soft cream and natural beige tones. Who needs a pet when you have a fluffy handbag?!

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, GANNI.)

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4. Snakeskin Touches

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, Zimmermann)

Style Notes: Snakeskin-effect leathers and finishes dominated footwear this season, and it’s only natural that we see it touching on bags also. Dovetailing well with both bohemian and contemporary trends, I saw python-look handbags all the way from Miu Miu to Zimmermann. One throughline I noticed was that the very best of these bags came in rich tan, brown and chocolate tones—nothing too light and sandy, which could read as ‘summer-y’.

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, Miu Miu.)

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5. The Big Red

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight, Prada.)

Style Notes: The “unexpected red theory” is here to stay, and now has a stronghold over luxury handbags. Shapes that are big and eye-catching will dominate, in both suede and leather variations, making for perfect day bags and a throw-it-all-in ease. Spearheaded by Prada and Chanel, this trend is perfect for minimalists and maximalists too. Adopting a red bag will give a strong pop of colour to an otherwise simple look, or likewise, can give a healthy injection of playfulness to a busy and bold ‘fit.