Put simply, accessorising your outfits with designer bags is the best—and possibly easiest—way to make a statement. Even the most formal of ensembles may be completed in an instant by just sliding it onto your shoulder or into the crook of your arm. Not to add, you have everything you need in a stylish, well-organised manner with you. The most important decision is which bag to buy, but don’t worry—the ELLE team is here to assist.
In our daily lives as fashion journalists, we encounter both the upcoming big It designs and the most sought-after designer handbags. Stated differently, we possess the necessary tools to inform you about the newest and most popular handbag trends as well as reliable investment items. I’ve picked a couple of my own favourites and asked other editors to share the looks they adore. What’s the best thing, then? Some (like crochet and raffia bags) perfectly complement the top summer 2024 fashion and bag trends, allowing you to look your best throughout the entire season.
1. Prada Crochet Tote Bag
When in doubt, a Prada is always a good choice. Additionally, this is the ultimate upscale version of the beach-ready raffia bag.— Senior fashion commerce editor Dale Arden Chong
2. Alaïa Le Teckel Shoulder Bag
The year’s must-have shoulder bag was made by Alaïa with its extended form and exaggerated straps. The brand’s wide range of colourways and textiles also appeals to me. But if I had to choose only one, the white leather ensemble is simply stunning.—Alexis Bennett Parker, head of content for commerce
3. Dior Saddle Bag with Strap
“When I consider well-known designer handbags, I include those that have a cult following—the Dior Saddle is unquestionably among them. Furthermore, I can speak from personal experience when I say that this bag has held me over the years and continues to do so. If that’s how you want it, this two-toned colourway is also the ideal approach to keep things interesting without going overboard.—D.A.C.
4. Ferragamo Hug Small Leather Top-Handle Bag
This bag has a certain something about it, maybe because of its name, the Hug bag, and its small leather arms and other details. But this is also really attractive in that iconic Ferragamo shade of red, I can’t help it. The finest of both worlds, he said. Of course, it also comes in a range of neutral hues like black, olive, and navy if this Flame Red isn’t your style.—D.A.C.
5. Mulberry Small Lana Top Handle Crossbody Bag
“Every slouchy bag available has a more structured counterpart, such as this elegant Mulberry offering. It has the feel of a classic top-handle purse but the front has more abstract hardware for a more contemporary look. This will undoubtedly go with everything you wear.—D.A.C.
6. Totême T-Lock Clutch
For a bag that’s just the right size, Toteme’s T-Lock bag is the best option. The clutch style of this purse is elegant enough for evening use, but its roomier size and structural finish make it a refined choice for daily use. I really love how versatile it is.—A.B.P.
7. Gucci Jackie Small Shoulder Bag
Like the people who carry it, this Gucci purse is iconic. In addition to its namesake Jackie Kennedy, Dua Lipa, Harry Styles, and Cate Blanchett are just a few celebrities that view the bag as a wardrobe essential. The ultimate 1960s classic, that is.—Assistant in fashion and accessories, Madison Rexroat
8. Bottega Veneta Medium Solstice
You’ve undoubtedly heard a lot about the Andiamo handbag that celebrities love by now. But now is the perfect moment to introduce yourself to the Solstice, another Bottega bag. Adhering to the hobo bag trend, this slouchy tote is incredibly adaptable and ageless. It still looks good. Put otherwise, it’s a worthwhile investment. Additionally, notice the contrast stitching.—D.A.C.
9. Miu Miu Wander Matelassé Nappa Leather Hobo Bag
I’m sure you’ve seen the It girls or your favourite influencers wearing these adorable Miu Miu minis in a variety of colours; every time I see them, I have to say how sweet they are. Just the necessities fit perfectly in these, and any girl knows that when it comes to a night out, less is more. Not carrying a wallet? Not an issue.—M.R.
10. Loewe Small Puzzle Bag
Since I first saw this classic beauty interspersed amid street style photographs from fashion week, I have been in awe of it. The leather panelling has a certain allure, and the fact that it’s still a popular option for high-end decorators (and comes in a range of hues, too) convinces me to spend the money.—D.A.C.
11. Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Pebbled Double Bag
“I’m constantly searching for a handbag that can go from the office to after-work dinners, and the Tory Burch Lee Radziwill purse is the ideal choice. This adaptable wardrobe essential is available in multiple sizes and fresh colourways every season; some are large enough to accommodate my laptop and a pair of flats. However, it’s the exquisite features that give it a unique appeal and consistently garner a tonne of compliments, such the barely noticeable brand clasp and the tri-fold silhouette.—A.B.P.
12. Versace Medusa ’95 Small Handbag
“Top-handle bags are one of the greatest summer bag trends of 2024, in case you haven’t heard already. Just in case you needed further evidence, Versace is offering its Medusa ’95 Small Handbag, which is equipped with a top handle. I picture this tucked into the bend of your arm or hanging casually around your wrist. What about that gold hardware? I’m convinced.—D.A.C.
13. Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag 20
“There were Tabbys before there were Tabis.” Up until recently, I’ve always been a gold digger. Metallic silver seems to be really grabbing on to me recently; perhaps I’m just a victim of the trend. I’m smitten with this Coach classic as a result. If this statement option isn’t for you, the ideally proportioned shoulder bag is available in 19 different colours and fabrics. It is also incredibly flexible.—Meg Donohue, an associate editor of fashion commerce
14. Rabanne Nano Sparkle Sequins Shoulder Bag
“A paillette Paco Rabanne purse is ideal for every season, particularly for those of us who lean towards maximalism in our style choices. It will shine and sparkle on glitzy winter evenings as well as catch the light on hot summer days. Although it reads like a post on the Y2K trend, this bag has been around for much longer than any fad.—M.R.
15. Khaite Lotus Medium Suede Tote
“Totes are among the nicest accessories made by Khaite overall. The style is understated enough to complement any ensemble, and the craftsmanship is outstanding. As boho chic fashions start to appear on the runways for next seasons, slouchy hobo bags are also making a comeback. Any trend can be effortlessly incorporated with accessories.—M.R.
16. Chanel 22 Mini Handbag
Without a little Chanel, would this list of the greatest designer bags be complete? The upscale brand offers some of the most recognisable handbags available, and they’re all quite classic. Having said that, may I kindly recommend this charming Chanel 22 Mini Handbag as a somewhat more contemporary choice for you?—D.A.C.
17. Chloé Small Mony Leather Tote
“One thing to know: You’re going to see this brand everywhere if Chloé’s fall/winter 2024 show—you know, when Chemena Kamali unveiled her first collection for the company—was any hint. So why not join in on the excitement and get a stylish, bohemian-inspired bag like this one?—D.A.C.
18. Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Small Hobo
“I adore hobo bags so much that I wrote a whole story about them so that we can both shop for the newest and greatest hobo bags available.” You are undoubtedly searching for a designer alternative that is well worth your money if you are here in the first place. The product from Saint Laurent [seen here] is nicely roomy and suitable for use as a daily leather purse.—D.A.C.
19. The Row EW Margaux Bag
“A lot of people are saying that The Row’s Margaux bag is the new Hermes Birkin, but I wasn’t drawn to the coveted It bag because of its status symbol or its understated detailing. Although it can be challenging to design with constraint, the Olsen twins have shown themselves to be experts at the concept of less is more. What’s superior than that? For many years to come, I can use this bag to travel to the airport or the office.—A.B.P.
20. Louis Vuitton Nano Speedy
“Denim is a neutral in my opinion; it never goes out of style and will always be stylish, much like the Speedy bag from Louis Vuitton. Thus, it is not surprising that this mini version that combines both is flawless.—Dr.
