From 2005 to 2025: Fashion People Have Coveted This Designer Bag for Generations

There are very few accessories that can be deemed cross-generational favorites. What is beloved by one generation is often a fashion nightmare to another (hello, skinny jeans), but every few decades, we come across a fashion revival that stands the test of time. Look no further than the Fendi Spy Bag that is tightening the reins 20 years after its debut.

In 2005, the Spy Bag quickly rose to what we thought was peak popularity. (Y2K lovers, please rise.) But decades later, it's still sought after by fashion enthusiasts across the globe and is often spotted on high-profile celebrities, runways, and red carpets. The term "cult classic" would be an understatement. While I'm choosing to delve into 2025's reimagining of the bag, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't going to take a few styling cues from Fendi runways of the past.

The level of satisfaction that I feel when I see a vintage handbag get a modern upgrade is unmatched, especially when it debuts on the runway. Fendi's F/W 2025 show was the official backdrop for the Spy Bag's return, where it appeared in new colorways and two sizes. Fendi's artistic director of accessories and menswear, Silvia Venturini Fendi, used the core elements of the bag that fashion insiders know and love to create a new model that juxtaposes nostalgic and contemporary elements. Dare I say this is what the brand does best? Fendi retained the bag's original twisted handles and signature hidden pocket detail under the flap, of course. (They don't call it the Spy Bag for nothing.) “If you open a bag and see what’s inside, you can read a person," she says. "I like that there might be something you'd want to keep just for you—that's why I conceived the hidden pocket." This slouchy silhouette perfectly coincides with the larger hobo bag trend that we've been seeing for the past couple of years. The Spy Bag is the perfect embodiment of Fendi's commitment to both its century-long heritage and innovation.

When we talk about the power of accessories, handbags are crucial to the conversation. Your handbag is not only responsible for carrying your essentials—it's an expression of your style. And I can say with confidence that in 2025, people take this form of expression quite seriously. I mean, we're going as far as accessorizing our accessories. Expect to see the regular-sized Spy Bag adorned with metal, beaded, and miniature stuffed animal charms thanks to its D-ring attachment. But charms or no charms, this is the kind of bag that makes getting dressed easier. You can rely on this Y2K favorite to elevate a crisp button-down and your trusty denim jeans. The small iteration is available in six colors—mint green, sorbetto yellow, and macaron pink are the standouts. While the bag is designed to be worn on the shoulder, you can also carry it in the crook of your arm or use the removable and adjustable crossbody strap for a hands-free moment.

Do you mind if we flash back to the early 2000s? It's only right that we discuss the iconic yet controversial fashion era of low-rise jeans, crop tops, chunky belts, miniskirts, and oversize bags. This was a time when personal style and dopamine dressing were at an all-time high, which explains why the Spy Bag fit perfectly into the zeitgeist of the time. The Spy Bag was only available in the larger size then, making it quite the statement piece despite not having the recognizable FF logo. Like many other notable Fendi bags, this one came in a variety of prints, styles, and materials. (If I could go back in time, I'd snag the floral style.) Socialites, actors, models, and more considered this bag a staple, and sentiments have only grown stronger over the years. Before this 2025 relaunch, fashion people had one goal, and that was to be the highest bidder for the Fendi Spy Bag at every consignment shop. And now, I think we can all agree that the goal is to transfer this bag from our wish lists to our wardrobes.