As fashion month continues to unfold, the runways aren’t the only place setting the agenda. Between the shows, on cobblestones and concrete alike, a new crop of contenders is quietly campaigning for “it bag” status.
This season, the field is gloriously varied. From ladylike east-west silhouettes that nod to polished mid-century glamour and slouchy clutches, designed to be tucked nonchalantly under the arm, to the delightfully impractical petite pouches seen on Prada and Loewe’s SS26 runways. At the other end of the spectrum, ludicrously capacious carryalls and weekender-esque totes make a compelling case for embracing your inner bag lady, while buttery suede styles slip seamlessly into everyday wardrobes.
Read on as we unpack the styles vying for “it bag” status this season.
The east-west bag
Looking to add a little polish to your wardrobe? May we suggest the east-west bag for your consideration. Defined by its elongated, rectangular silhouette, the ’90s classic has re-emerged as one of the season’s most refined propositions. Spotted in everything from sleek baguettes to compact barrel and bowling styles, the shape feels both nostalgic and freshly relevant.
The ludicriously capacious bag
Once a cutting line in Succession, the “ludicrously capacious” bag has officially had the last laugh. Rather than shrinking into the codes of quiet luxury, the style set is embracing totes big enough to carry everything but the kitchen sink. From slouchy, near floor-grazing carryalls to sharply structured briefcase iterations, supersized silhouettes dominated the runways this season. Equal parts pragmatic and statement-making, they prioritise ease without sacrificing impact.
The petite pouch
If there’s one bag that’s here purely for a good time, it’s the petite pouch. On our radar since Harris Tapper’s 2025 NZFW show, this delightfully impractical style isn’t pretending to hold your whole life. Phone, lip gloss, card. Done. Think of it as the sartorial equivalent of travelling light. Perfect for date night, weddings, or any moment that calls for a little drama, this season’s versions arrive in glossy satins and bold, mood-lifting hues (very Prada SS26-coded).
The suede everyday bag
Say goodbye to patent and high-gloss bags, it’s suede’s time to shine. Soft, tactile and endlessly wearable, the everyday suede bag brings a welcome dose of texture to the transeasonal wardrobe. Think considered, practical shapes such as the crossbody, shoulder bag or slouchy mid-sized tote, rendered in warm, earthy tones.
The hand-held clutch
This season, the clutch isn’t dangling from fingertips – it’s tucked firmly under the arm instead. From slouchy, pillow-soft styles (Deadly Ponies’ feathered iteration springs to mind) to sleek, structured designs. There’s no dangling hardware or crossbody strap to contend with – just a clean line that sharpens tailoring and elevates eveningwear alike.
