Handbags: Summer 2023 Report — PhotoBook Magazine

Apr 03, 2024

The world of bags and fashion trends is continuously evolving, and this summer, practicality is a priority. On the runways, designers are focusing on reimagined classics and day-to-night bags with occasional hardware details, crafted attributes, fringe, elevated surfaces, and color; specifically metallics. From clutches and mini bags, to top-handle bags and slouchy shoulder bags, there are many styles to choose from.

Clutch:

Designed to be carried in the hand or tucked under the arm, clutches are a timeless fashion staple often used as evening bags for formal occasions, but can also be styled with casual daytime outfits for a chic look.

Left to Right: Christian Wijnants, Victoria Beckham, Gabriela Hearst, Akris, Jonathan Simkhai

Mini Bag:

Small bags first appeared in the 1960s, alongside the shorter skirts that also became popular during that time. With a comeback of mini bags in the past few years, miniature versions of popular bag styles like crossbody bags and totes are one of the hottest summer trends that offer a stylish and minimalist look.

Left to right images below: Isabel Marant, Blumarine, GCDS, Zimmermann, Chanel

Soft Shopper:

Ideal for functionality and ease, ‘soft shopper’ bags are perfect for a day of shopping and carrying many items. This bag design includes creative finishes, as well as unique colors and dimensions.

Left to right images below: Hermes, Tokyo; unknown, Prada, Emilia Wickstead, Altuzarra

Slouchy Shoulder Bag:

While you may have seen slouchy shoulder bags worn by celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Lindsay Lohan in the 2000s, you don’t have to search far to spot them today. Known for being accommodating and effortless, designers are diving into this bag trend with unstructured and minimalist shoulder bags ranging from smooth to textured.

Left to right images below: Versace, Hermes, 3.1 Phillip Lim, JW Anderson, Givenchy

Top-Handle Bag:

Predicted as a ‘key core item’ by WGSN, the top-handle bag is a modest styled bag that is structured, yet playful. Top-handle bags will always be a classic, elegant bag that will make you feel chic, sophisticated, and powerful from the moment you grip it in your hand.

Left to right images below: Louis Vuitton, Bally, Eudon Choi, Moschino, A.W.A.K.E MODE

From clutches and mini bags to slouchy shoulder bags and top-handle bags, there are many different bag trends that are being revived and each bag type can serve a different purpose for different occasions, from day to night.

Article by Mariana Apostolatos, Contributor, PhotoBook MagazineResearch by Chloe Orscheln, Contributor, PhotoBook MagazineTearsheets by Mia Fyson, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine

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