Even if you're not particularly superstitious, chances are you've had one missed purchase in your life that continues to haunt you. If you're a bag lady like me, you've likely spent an almost unspeakable amount of time ruminating over purses of the past that you missed out on buying during their prime. And I'm not referring to the discounted designer bag you didn't buy while it was on sale—rather an even darker obsession with "niche" purse shapes from the past. (The girls that get it, well, they know what I'm talking about.) You become semi-obsessed with trying to find that specific vintage handbag shape—whether it's an oversize bowler bag, barrel bag, or really any bag trend from the '90s—even if there's no sign that it will come back into style anytime soon. I'll be the first to admit that it's not the healthiest habit.
Thankfully, there's one silver lining to look forward to this season that can free us from this sickening affliction: the return of frame handbags. Yes, you read that right—vintage-inspired clasp bags have returned to the chat. They were first popularized in the early '50s and are characterized by their distinguishable structured silhouette that typically has a visible metal frame or prominent kiss-lock clasps. While the style has been around for a while, it's only in recent seasons that we've begun to see it make its way back on the runway. Now, this isn't an exact re-creation of the formerly "dated" handbag trend, as we've seen designers revive clasp handbags by giving them contemporary details.
Most notably, what's made the clasp handbag feel cool, chic, and cool again is that you can find so many variations of the style right now. Whether you can't stop thinking about the sleek patent leather frame bags with sculptural top handles spotted in Ferragamo's F/W 23 collection or the oversize kiss-lock coin purses in Coach's S/S 25 runway show, there are so many versions of this bag that will undoubtedly haunt your dreams (if you don't secure them). Luckily, I'm here to help you assuage your affliction preemptively. Ahead, you'll find examples of the clasp handbag trend on the runway and in real life. Plus, see a curation of the best options to buy right now.
On the Runway
In the Wild
Shop the Trend
Why chose between a black or white bag when you can have both?
She's a lady.
The dark shade of red? The structured shape? The suede exterior? Sublime all-around.
Love, love, love.
The shape of this frame bag is sure to secure you ample compliments.
Now, here's a frame bag that's sure to make them green with envy.
Khaite's frame bag will surely attain cult-status in the coming months.
Plum is the perfect pop of color for your winter wardrobe.
Is it just me, or did you also want to start singing, "Shine bright like a diamond" at first sight of this Jimmy Choo frame clutch bag?
Such a steal!
The great thing about this bag is that it come with two detachable straps, allowing you to style it as a clutch, crossbody, or classic shoulder bag.
The pony-hair finish makes this bag even posher.
Tory Burch knows the way to a girl's heart.
No only does this bag look more expensive than it's price tag, but it comes in three other colors—including black, red, and green.
I've been plotting ways to get my hands on this bag.
Although this bag doesn't have exposed clasp hardware, it does have a metal closure that gives it the same structure as any other frame bag.
NGL, not a day has gone by since the debut of Ferragamo's F/W 23 collection that I don't think about this frame handbag.
Double the trouble.
Think outside the box by opting for a a curvier frame bag.
Honestly, surprised that this small handbag hasn't sold-out since being marked down.
Touch at your own risk.
Hear that sound? It's this black velvet frame bag beggin' for a night out.
Don't be afraid to shop vintage versions of this bag trend—after all, you can't ever go wrong with a scooping up a Celine Clasp bag!
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