Finding a new handbag is tricky. Even for the most experienced shopper, navigating the new crop of trends each season is overwhelming, to say the least. Right now, with a micro-trend emerging on Instagram on what feels like a near-weekly basis, it's more confusing than ever. But we've decided to make things that little bit easier and narrow down the types of handbags currently trending but with long-lasting, grown-up qualities.
From minimalist totes that are ideal for work to practical options for multitasking to classic investment pieces you'll never regret, these are the nine types of bags you'll want to wish list immediately.
If You're Always at Work, Choose a Top Handle Tote
Style Notes: Nothing says businesswoman like a minimal but efficient top-handle handbag. Roomy and sophisticated without being boring—a sleek, smooth leather iteration is the epitome of chic.
If You're Fancy, a Mini-Bag is Calling You
Style Notes: This is the bag you can have the most fun with. Take it with you when you have grown-up nights out and you only need a credit card and lipstick.
If You Always Need to Use Your Hands, a Crossbody is for You
Style Notes: Small but mighty. The crossbody is the everyday bag you'll wear to run errands, carry a coffee and write emails at the same time. Think of it as the hands-free of handbags. Invest in this one—you'll probably wear it the most.
If You're a Nineties Girl, You Need a Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: Our most recent bag obsession comes courtesy of the Fendi Baguette, which kicked off the "slung over the shoulder" bag trend in the '90s and is now making a huge comeback with brands like By Far. Luckily for us, the high street is picking up on it.
If You're a Label Fan, Invest in a Logo Bag
Style Notes: These might seem showy, but if you invest in the right brand, logo prints can have a really timeless feel. Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Burberry and Gucci all have iconic designs that will add value to your bag if you ever want to sell it on.
If You're Always Carrying Loads of Stuff, Oversized Bags Are Back
Style Notes: The oversized bag is perhaps the most practical trend to come off the catwalks in the last few years. If the mini bag is for the fancy-free, this style—seen at both Bottega Veneta and Loewe—is definitely more for those of us with real-life responsibilities (and all the stuff that comes with that).
If You Spend All Your Money on Bags, These Are the Ultimate Purchases
Style Notes: The Hermès Birkin and Chanel flap bags are the Holy Grail of handbags. Once you have one fo these in your arsenal, you can hang up your shopping shoes and retire happy.
Next up, the autumn/winter trends we believe in.
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