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.
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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
