Seven so-now styles to put on your radar
When it comes to Spring Summer 2022 handbag trends, there’s a bounty of fresh styles to delight and surprise even the most seasoned handbag collectors. From high-octane exotics to hyper-functional minis, read on to discover seven handbag trends that’ll put you firmly in the know.
1. Final Straw
When it comes to understatedly chic companions, few handbags are as compelling as those made from straw, raffia, or wicker — just ask Jane Birkin. The fashion icon and actress was sporting one for most of the 1960s and 1970s, and the bag has managed to maintain that same je ne sais quoi today. This season, the timeless style has been updated with oversized logos and colorful shades for fresh punctuation.
2. Multitasker
For those who follow the rules of Marie Kondo and like to have a designated place for every belonging, this trend is going to speak your style language perfectly. From coin purses to phone pouches, cardholders, and mini bag charms that hold your bits and pieces, there’s an uber-stylish storage compartment for every daily essential this season. A key part of this trend is in the styling — sling two or three of your multifunctional small leather bags across your chest for full effect.
3. Bold Shoulder
Designers’ nostalgia for the 90s is yet to fade, with a plethora of shoulder bags returning this season in a major way. Defined by their shorter strap styles and an elongated, compact shape that tucks tightly under the arm, the shoulder bag is the perfect fuse of retro cool and effortless functionality. This season, you’ll find freshness in fabrics and details — cue unexpected colors, prints, and textural embellishments.
4. Extra Baggage
If you have a tendency to carry an army of belongings with you wherever you go, this trend is for you — the extra-large tote bag. Not only is it gloriously roomy (hurrah for a bag that can fit your laptop and a spare pair of shoes) but the statement size instantly adds punch to the simplest of outfits. And what’s not to love about minimum effort, maximum impact?
5. Exotic Escape
From faux fur to embossed leather, exotic materials are defined by their textured finish (think crocodile, alligator, or python) and a glossy lacquer. This season, you’ll see iterations of materials take shape across a wide range of silhouettes — from mini evening bags to everyday totes. One commonality? They always bring high-octane glamour.
6. Bucket List
The cylinder-shaped bucket bag is one that continues to crop up most seasons (for great reason) but never quite in the volume of Spring Summer 2022. From canvas to leather, from plain to logo-ed, from structured to slouchy — whatever your style personality and daily needs, you’ll find your match with this so-now silhouette.
7. Ice Cream Dream
Nothing signals warmer weather like an influx of pastel. And while the shades might not be shout spring like florals, they win the award for prettiest and most approachable — and they always add instant lift to any outfit. Whether it be lavender, mint, or lemon sorbet, you’ll find a sweet treat in all the shades of a gelato shop this season.
