6 Fall Handbag Trends I'm Already Seeing Invade NYC

NYC girls know what’s up in the style department. But that’s what you get when you live in one of the fashion capitals of the world that has design practically injected into its core. So naturally, I turn to this set when scouting the coolest trends. In fact, on a recent escapade through Manhattan, I noticed that the most fashionable women are already toting around some of the freshest handbag silhouettes. I’m talking about those cool new shapes we saw all over the fall runways but didn’t expect to make moves IRL until September or October.
Sure, summer is still kicking, but if you want a jump start on building that forward fall wardrobe, taking a cue from these trendsetting New Yorkers will ensure your upcoming bag game is on point. With that, I rounded up the six next-wave handbag trends I’m starting to see all over the city. Keep scrolling for a bit of visual and shopping inspiration—and stay ahead of the curve (just like the NYC style set).
Chain Reaction
While the minimalist silhouettes we've been spotting will still hold strong, bags with heavy hardware will also have a moment next season. Here, we're talking bulky chains and metal accents to make a serious impact.
Shop the trend:
Checkmate
Amp up your cool factor by embracing check prints in either a classic black-and-white combo or a multicolor situation.
Shop the trend:
Green With Envy
Varying shades of green made their mark throughout spring and summer, and the color—especially kelly green—will be a frontrunner in the bag realm come fall. Trust us. You'll turn all heads toting around the eye-catching hue.
Shop the trend:
Structured Stunner
Your favorite top-handle silhouette is getting an architectural upgrade this season featuring sharp lines and sleek angles. If you need a quick fix to elevate your ensemble, this trend is definitely your best bet.
Shop the trend:
Mini Me
While they might not fit your entire life, that's not stopping the fashion universe's continued obsession with mini bags. This season, the smaller the better for your next event or night out.
Shop the trend:
Luxe Elegance
Add instant polish to your fall 'fits with a fancy-feeling handbag featuring luxe details like mock croc and shiny finishes.
Shop the trend:
Next, check out the best black bags under $100.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
10 Spring Outfit Ideas That Will Make Anyone Look Like a Fashion Person
Bring on the compliments.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I Live in NYC—This Is the It Bag Every Fashion Person Is Wearing
A new favorite.
By Audry Hiaoui
-
Style Rut? I Have Something for That—33 Stellar Spring Picks From Nordstrom, Zara, and Madewell
I see chic outfits in your future.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Got Taste? Then This Rising It Bag Should Be Your Next Purchase
Don't wait until everyone is carrying one this summer.
By Eliza Huber
-
This Is the It Bag Everyone With Expensive Taste Has Their Eye on Right Now
Elegant is an understatement.
By Allyson Payer
-
I Have Proof—These Are the Shoes New Yorkers Always Wear With Trench Coats
It's NYC's spring uniform.
By Natalie Cantell
-
5 Activewear Trends I Spot in Every Pilates Studio in Manhattan
What NYC fashion people are wearing to work out.
By Natalie Cantell
-
I Give It a Week Until Every Fashion Person in NYC Is Wearing This Under-$500 Designer Bag
It could be even less than that, though.
By Nikki Chwatt