Despite being a self-confessed TikTok binge-watching girly, I'm absolutely not prepared to offer you up a comprehensive 'ins' vs 'outs' bag list à la Gen-Z on my own. Instead, I'm here to give you the ultimate cheat sheet with the help of our editors to ensure that the bags (or bag, your choice!) you'll be investing in in 2023 will keep you satisfied long past the metaphorical ball drop.
And this year, there's a handbag trend to suit just about everyone. I’ve mustered up the very best opinions to offer you the ultimate ‘bag swap’ that you won’t tire of, with expert tips on how to wear the bag trends we're loving this season and beyond. Maybe you’ve tried to style the same old bucket bag with those boyfriend jeans one too many times? Or you’re really over that OTT impulse purchase logo bag and want to replace it with something more classic. Just call us your Fairy Fashion-Parents, your bag wish is our command..
Keep scrolling for our ultimate list of what bags are in fashion for 2023, and what bags we're leaving behind this year. Plus, shop the styles we've got our eye on, from big designer names to high-street heroes.
Skipping: Maximalist Logo BagsWearing: Minimal Bright Classic Bags
"Don't get me wrong, I love a main character moment as much as the next person, but having previously invested in a 'trend' bag that went out of style as quickly as it came in, this season I'll be opting for more classic shaped bags in bright colours to elevate my all-black every day uniform." — Emma Gold, Who What Wear UK Fashion Contributor
Shop the Trend:
An investment piece for sure, but one that will never date. Plus, your future child will thank you.
Absolutely loving this mini Casette in this cool purple tone.
The shape is giving us that The Row bag and we're here for it.
A leather baguette? Sign us up.
This vivid pink will add a hit of colour to any toned down outfit, major style points if you're buying into Barbiecore and wearing all pink too.
Skipping: Mini BagsWearing: XXL Totes
"Looking at my handbag collection, all of my current styles are on the smaller side, which is probably why I end up having to cart the inevitable overspill in a fabric tote bag. So, this year, I've decided I'm going to invest in a premium tote bag that will allow me to carry all my things in it at once. Simple pleasures and all that!" — Maxine Eggenberger, deputy editor
Shop the Trend:
In words by Little Liffner, this gorgeous piece draws inspiration from minimalist sculpture and organic shapes in nature.
The perfect work-to-drinks bag.
We'll be pairing this with a large cream knit and some black tailored trousers.
With only 12 pieces made, these hand-knitted artisanal bags are completely unique.
The Chic French Girl choice.
Skipping: Bucket Bags Wearing: Box Bags
"I used to be all about a bucket bag. Smart but with a boho twist, they were both practical and stylish and boasted plenty of celeb fans (Alexa Chung, Kate Moss and Miranda Kerr to name a few). However, the slouchy, often suede and tasseled styles of the past have been replaced this year with geometrical, structured boxes. And I'm here for it. Whether it's a clutch or a top-handle style, the box bag is here to add interest and dimension to even the most simplest of looks." — Poppy Nash, Managing Editor
Shop the Trend:
You can absolutely bet on it that you'll see the fashion crowd sporting this classic for a while.
Dress up with an LBD for date night or with jeans, a blazer and boots for a more refined look.
The bag that broke the internet, a great way to add a splash of colour to any outfit whilst keeping it modern.
We love the deep hue of this burgundy, wear it with the strap as a crossbody or as a cute box bag.
A classic box bag available in 15 different colours!
Skipping: BackpacksWearing: Embellished Bags
"Ok so Christmas might be in the rearview mirror, but there's absolutely no need to ditch the diamonds just yet. I am seeing a huge rise in those opting for opulence over minimalism. From bejewelled vintage Fendi's to the it-girl's crystal embellished Prada triangle bag, more is more in 2023 and don't let anybody tell you otherwise."— Remy Farrell, Shopping Editor
Shop the Trend:
The Prada triangle piece has Kendall Jenner, Camila Coelho Veronica Heilbrunner's stamp of approval.
We love the knot detailing on this bag.
Staud just gets it right when it comes to embellished bags, we could browse them forever.
Swoon. Is it too late to add this to our Christmas Wishlist?
We're absolutely obsessed with this JW Anderson beauty, also available in black leather. We'll be pairing this with a neutral look to add a bright blast.
Skipping: Crossbody BagsWearing: Shoulder bags
"I'll be saying see ya to my crossbody bag collection, because moving in to 2023 I'm all about the shoulder bag. Versatile in shape and size, as well as design, there's a reason the style is a total classic. My fave pick from the below has to be the Anine Bing Houndstooth, it's giving me major Meredith Blake vibes" — Joy Ejaria, Social Media Editor
Shop the Trend:
Harry Styles gave this bag the green tick back in 2020 and trust us, this style is going nowhere.
Think you've seen this bag before? That'd probably be because this influencer-loved piece has been all over our feeds since it was first released.
Not only does this piece make the perfect winter accompaniment, it would also look chic paired with a cream linen shirt and jeans in the summer too.
It's giving 2000s It Girl...
We're loving Geometric shaped bags to elevate any look.
Skipping: Sequin BagsWearing: Chainmail Bags
"ICYMI, silver is having a major moment. So when it comes to dressier handbags, details like rhinestones and chainmail are enjoying a renaissance, and colourful sequinned embellishments inspired by 2020-21’s dopamine dressing trend are best left in the cupboard, IMO. The original chainmail bag is the Paco Rabanne 1969, but Benedetta Bruzziches and several affordable brands are offering their version and I for one am on board with them all. Just watch out for the magpies." — Rebecca RhysEvans, Branded Content Editor
Shop the Trend:
She's an icon, she's a legend, she is the moment.
After a chainmail bag in different colours shapes? Look no further.
A great cheaper alternative to achieve that look.
The hoop handles on this bag are giving us serious 80s vibes.
Party look secured.
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