I'm a Handbag Collector—These Styles Matter Most Now (and in 2024)

A handbag is not only practical (aka, stores your daily essentials) but that A+ silhouette also acts as the perfect finishing touch to an outfit. And while one ideal style can be all you need in a wardrobe, having options can also be of interest. And that's of utmost interest to influencer Dekota Waller. As a collector of handbags and a true accessories aficionado (his Instagram page is filled with a range of inspiring outfit ideas featuring gorgeous bags), he knows a thing or two about what's chic, versatile, and trending.

On that note, Waller actually shared with us the key handbag styles that he thinks matter most right now and will hold strong in 2024 and beyond. Below, you'll find the silhouettes in question, along with the specific bags that he adores in each category. If you're interested in investing in a new handbag, there are shopping recommendations sprinkled throughout as well from brands like Bottega Veneta, Celine, and Gucci

Large Totes/Carryalls

"Living in the city sometimes requires me to carry a ton of stuff, so a tote bag or carryall is essential for every day. I love a canvas tote, but I'm at a point in my life where I need something more elevated. A typical day could include going to the gym, running errands, meeting friends for coffee, and dinner with my husband, so a bag that's chic and holds all of my stuff is a must. I usually go for something in leather since leather is the most durable, and something pretty minimal so that it'll go with any outfit in my wardrobe. The Row Park Tote is the sleekest, most minimal, and timeless option, perfect for every day. The Andiamo is beautiful for everyday wear (and a celebrity favorite), and the double-strap feature makes it more versatile. Jacob Elordi's bag collection is literally insane, and he made me gasp when I saw him carrying that yellow LV Speedy. I'm currently hunting the internet for the perfect vintage Speedy." — Waller

Shoulder Bags

"Similar to totes and carryalls. It's a staple for anyone on the go and probably offers the most options of all the styles on this list. It's a classic style, so when I'm choosing a shoulder bag, I look for something that's different from the rest. Loewe is one of my favorite brands, and their bags are the most interesting, and they're great at designing classic styles with a twist. All of their bags have been hits, but the new Squeeze bag has gotten my attention because of its unique design and [craftsmanship.] Can see this being a favorite for years to come. Verafied bags are a great, affordable option, and I love the minimal, '90s aesthetic of their Hobo Bag—perfect for every day. I have a few Celine bags, and I'm always reaching for my crossbody styles. The Ava Triomphe caught my attention (especially in canvas), and I see all the fashion girls loving this style to throw over their shoulder and go next spring." — Waller

Quilted Bags

"These offer a bit of texture and visual interest to a more minimal or 'quiet' outfit. I've seen this COS bag everywhere in the larger version, so the smaller one is exciting to see! I love the below Coach and Urban Outfitter bags as more affordable options worn with outerwear this fall and next spring, and I don't see this trend going anywhere for a while." — Waller

Pouches

"I don't know why I've been loving pouches lately, but I've been really drawn to this style. There's something so nonchalant about tossing the Loewe Flamenco bag under your arm with a chic trench and heading to dinner or delicately holding the Hermès Kelly Pochette or Loro Piana Pochette (hello, quiet luxury!) to complete your look. Instant elegance." — Waller

East/West Bags

"This style has been trending so hard recently, and it's exciting to see different brands do their own versions. So many to choose from in this category, but some standouts include the Ferragamo Wanda (Ferragamo is having a moment this year, and I love their new direction), the Dior Toujours (which is on my wish list and probably on its way to my shopping cart soon), The Ganni Bou Bag is for all the It girls who exude that Scandi style, and the Zara options are great for dabbling in the trend without breaking the bank. I'm looking forward to seeing how this style evolves over the next few seasons." — Waller