I don’t know about you, but I’ve been on a major handbag kick this year. This is probably due in large part to the fact that I hardly even used a handbag in 2020, let alone bought any. This year, I just want to be out in the world with real clothes and a pretty bag on my arm. Can you blame me?
I think that a year without bags has really made me reassess what I need and want in one. My main takeaway is simple: trendy yet timeless. I love getting in on new bag trends, but I also like to invest in bags that I’ll carry for years to come. And luckily, this isn’t a predicament because there are always lots of bags on the market that meet these slightly ambitious criteria. And yep, I found them.
I admittedly spent hours honing in on the best handbags right now that are on-trend yet not over-the-top or too specific. Translation: They’ll still look cool in five years. Scroll on to shop them before they sell out. (Supply chain issues, ya know?)
This is one of my favorite bags of the year. It’s the perfect size, the logo is subtle, the strap is adjustable, and it’s popular without being impossible to find.
I’m such a fan of Staud’s pretty beaded bags. This one is moody yet cheerful, making it great for any season.
This is one of 2021’s biggest It bags, but Bottega Veneta bags have a tendency to really stick around.
A beautiful day-to-night bag, the Penelope tote is roomy enough for the workday without actually appearing big.
Zara’s modern bucket bag could easily be confused for The Row (except for the fact that it costs about $2k less).
This moiré bag is ridiculously cute. I can see it being one that I’ll carry for evening occasions for years to come.
I’m always on the hunt for durable tote bags to bring on trips and such. This one has Prada’s very trendy logo and a classic shape.
This slouchy hobo bag has such a cozy look to it. I’d reserve it for the winter.
Mansur Gavriel’s Candy Bag is quickly becoming fall’s mid-priced It bag. It’s a bag I can see myself reaching for so often that I’d forget my other bags exist.
The subtle patchwork details make this one low-key on-trend.
Fendi’s updated Croissant bag is a nod to the ’90s. Hey, it’s remained relevant for this long.
This bag is so cozy. How could it ever go out of style?
Tweed looks so polished and is even a little unexpected. Combined with the classic YSL logo, this is such a smart buy.
Soft clutches are still having a moment to the point where they’ve become staples.
This disco-ball bag may not be for everyone, but it’s definitely for me. Sparkly things never really go away, so it’s a good investment IMO.
If you want a sparkly shoulder bag that isn’t $1k, your wish is my command.
If you’re into super-structured bags, this is probably speaking to you. It’s a touch quirky, so if you like getting questions and comments about your bags, you’ll appreciate it even more.
Prada’s Cleo bag sprung to fame late last year, and it’s really proving to stand the test of time. I actually own it and can speak to its perfection.
This new one from BY FAR benefits from a wonderfully excessive number of buckles.
It’s easy to see why Gucci’s Jackie bag is one of the year’s most coveted. It dates back to 1961, proving its timelessness.
Such a fun summertime bag, no matter the year.
I love the versatility of this bracelet/shoulder bag hybrid. It’s perfect for holiday (or any) parties.
Can you tell I really love a ’90s shoulder bag right now? Here’s another great one in a great color.
Chunky-chain bags are very trendy right now, but this is also just a great everyday shoulder bag with a little something extra.
That little Jacquemus logo keeps every bag the brand makes cool.
Here’s a bag for those times when you want something sleek that won’t compete with your outfit. This one is also great for travel thanks to its somewhat sleek shape.
It may just look like a simple black tote at first glance, but the plissé pleats turn it into something really special.
There’s always a place in a bag collection for a classic saddlebag.
Since the ’70s are always kind of a thing in fashion, I think this one is a smart investment.
