This Controversial Bag Trend Is Becoming a Thing

Just when you finally figured out how to get all the stuff you need for a day to fit into one of those mini bags, the fashion universe had to go and make a bag that's basically the polar opposite. (But not to fear—your beloved mini bag is still cool.) For the past couple of seasons, there have been indications on the runways of Jacquemus, Proenza Schouler, Loewe, and more that oversize bags are barreling back into relevance in the form of clutches, totes, and top-handle satchels. Sure enough, we're finally seeing indications of this on Instagram and the streets. Many show attendees at the recent Paris Couture Fashion Week fully embraced the oversize bag trend, with Bottega Veneta, Loewe, and Maison Margiela (its puffer bag was everywhere) iterations being some of the most popular.

The good news is that this trend can fit your laptop, a water bottle, your phone charger, and even an extra pair of shoes in some cases. The bad news is that issues come up like where to put it when dining at a restaurant (besides the floor, yikes) or how to pull it off when you're petite.

Now, I love a new bag trend as much as the next fashion person, but at 5'4," I'm struggling with how to carry a bag that's nearly half my size. I've seen photos of myself from the past with giant bags on my shoulder or arm, and it's definitely not my best look. Perhaps heels would help? I'm determined to find an oversize bag that works for my frame after seeing how many cool ones are popping up among retailers' new arrivals and how chic fashion-show attendees looked carrying them. Keep scrolling for the evidence and the very best oversize-bag shopping the market currently has to offer.

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

If you love the boho look, you're going to love this bag trend.

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(Image credit: Christian Vierig/Getty Images)

Why not just match your bag to your dress?

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

Maison Margiela's puffy clutches were all over the streets of Paris during couture week, and we expect the same for the next fashion month.

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(Image credit: Christian Vierig/Getty Images)

This top-handle tote is an obvious choice for the office, but it's a cool, unexpected choice for OOO events.

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

The big puffer clutch strikes again. (PS: This style looks amazing with ripped denim.)

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

Want to try the trend on the cheap? Grab an oversize canvas tote and call it a day.

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

An oversize Loewe bag is enough to turn any outfit into something special. Case in point.

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

Bottega Veneta's Pouch Bag has solidified itself as the It bag of the moment. It may leave you with only one hand free, but it's so chic that it's worth it.

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(Image credit: Christian Vierig/Getty Images)

It also does double duty as a pillow, which you can't say for a mini bag.

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(Image credit: Christian Vierig/Getty Images)

This Maison Margiela bag provides the perfect contrast to a cheery summer outfit.

Next, I'm a Handbag Buyer, and These Popular Designer Bags Are Worth It

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Allyson Payer
Senior Editor

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.