It’s an unwritten rule of the fashion world that a new season calls for a new handbag.
Even if you’re not overhauling your look completely, there’s something so refreshing about retiring your winter favourite (either to the back of your wardrobe or to a charity shop) and transitioning to a box-fresh bag.
The SS21 catwalks gave us a mouth-watering selection of arm candy, but what if designer prices are beyond your budget? Fear not, the high street and vintage shops are sure to have budget-friendly options.
Even better? You might even have some of these styles in the back of your wardrobe - the noughties have returned!
1. Shoulder bags
As every fashionista knows, the Noughties are back in a big way right now, and that includes accessories, as seen on the Prada and Fendi catwalks.
The days of the sporty cross-body bag are numbered – now it’s time to make like Carrie Bradshaw with a brightly coloured, neat little shoulder bag nestled under your arm.
2. Woven bags
Not to be confused with straw beach bags (although we can confirm raffia and baskets bags will be everywhere come summer), this spring’s woven bags are the leather – or faux – variety.
Inspired by Bottega Veneta’s blockbuster Cassette, these neutral-hued handbags are compact and cool but big enough to fit all your essentials. Need something larger? Try a woven tote.
3. Quilted bags
Quilted bags never really go out of style (largely thanks to Chanel, of course) but they’re having a real moment this spring.
From classic chain strap shoulder bags to mini backpacks, this season’s padded purses are small but perfectly formed.
4. Slouchy bags
The accessories equivalent of loungewear, is it any wonder super-soft bags have become hugely popular during the pandemic?
As seen at Bottega Veneta, Loewe and cult US brand Mansur Gavriel, these slouchy pouches and shoulder bags are a great day-to-night option.
