When it comes to new season bag trends, it’s a case of fashion yin and yang. On one end of the spectrum, you have the bold, exciting side of things. We’re talking statement-making east-west silhouettes, funky bag charms and eye-catching leopard print designs. Then, on the more functional side, there’s the travel bag category. Meaning your daily XL tote that can carry your entire life (oh how we love it when fashion supports us like this). Plus, the comeback story of wristlets – everyone’s favourite small, hands-free option.
Yep, the autumn winter 2024 runways were a combination of quirky and practical bag styles. Tbh, aren’t they always? From the fashion trends to what shoes to wear and not forgetting jewellery too, the great thing with so much choice is being able to pick which look resonates with you most.
Though when it comes to bags, who says you can’t invest in one from each category?! Especially when we’ve done all the hard work and shopped the best trending bag styles for you. You’re welcome!
East-West Bags
The east-to-west bag (essentially a long, rectangle shaped silhouette) is having a resurgence this season thanks to designers everywhere, from Proenza to Gucci. The long shape has been a staple of multiple fashion decades, and like all things chic enough to have second, third, and fourth lives, has found its way back into our hearts via labels that love nostalgia. I can’t get enough of them because they are as cute as a mini bag but can fit all your essentials. My phone, keys, wallet, and lip balm need a place to live!
shop the east-west trend
Coach Barrel bag in Coachtopia leather
& Other Stories Leather shoulder bag
Travel Bags
Oversized duffels make the perfect luggage. But, this season, might I suggest you make one of these your everyday? It is all about finding the best one in different colours or with cool details, like grommets. If the one you find is too big for the day-to-day, at least your airport ’fit will be super chic.
shop the travel bag trend
Free People Daybreaker tote
Mango Natural fibre shopper bag
ASOS DESIGN Weave tubular tote bag
Wristlets
Remember these from the early aughts? Well, they’re back. The latest Y2K trend, along with the likes of bubble hems, cargo skirts and capri pants. (Aren’t you glad designers aren’t done mining this era for inspo? Just look at what we get from it!) And looks like the updated take on this classic small bag means we’ve got ourselves a practical piece for a night out. I, for one, am very excited for this comeback story.
shop the wristlet trend
Polène Sierra pouch
Katie Loxton Serena wristlet
Now 30% Off
Zara Textured clutch with flap
Bag Charms
We love a trend that has an easy entry point, and I’d call “adding any old key chain, necklace, or looped accessory to your purse” exactly that. The more cutesy and novelty the charm, the better here. Heck, why not dig out your old Tamagotchi and give it a new lease of life?! The point is to show off your personality and live your best maximalist life, so add as much as you want and see where it takes you.
shop the bag charm trend
Anthropologie Rope carabiner bag charm
Urban Outfitters Antique bow bag charm
Minga London 90s nostalgia keychain
Leopard Print
If you read our autumn winter fashion trends report, you already know this classic pattern is very in this season. Bags are the perfect way to dip a toe into a trend and show a little personality without going overboard. So, if you love leopard but don’t want to wear it in dress or trouser form, this is your chance to get in on the trend (which is so timeless, you better get used to it)!
shop the leopard print trend
Damson Madder ruched kidney bag in leopard print
ASOS DESIGN Premium leather leopard bucket shoulder bag
Anthropologie 90’s frill leopard print shoulder bag
Andrea Zendejas is the Senior Accessories Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she has worked for 5+ years. Andrea handles fine and costume jewelry, shoes, and bags for all cover and fashion stories in addition to overseeing the front of book shopping pages. She also styles beauty well stories and various fashion stories for digital. Andrea previously worked at CR Fashion Book, SELF Magazine, and Women’s Health and has contributed to digital sites Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. Follow her on Instagram.
Devin Toolen is the Fashion Assistant at Cosmopolitan where she’s responsible for anything and everything that comes through the fashion closet doors. She preps ready-to-wear, accessories, and shoes for Cosmo photoshoots and assists on set. Devin also writes fashion stories for the Cosmopolitan website. Prior to Cosmo, Devin received her BA from Villanova University and her MA from Parsons in Paris, France. While she is passionate about fashion trends and current styles, she has a deep love for fashion history, heritage and archives. Follow her fashion journey on insta: @devintoolen.
Alexandria Dale is Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan & . Covering everything from the worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!