The 6 Best Fall Handbag Trends to Shop and Wear Right This Second

I’ve been spotting long, horizontal shoulder bags from Alaïa and Freja all summer long and only anticipate the trend growing stronger as we head into autumn. They have such a ‘90s vibe, are a chic evolution from the baguette shoulder bags that have been dominating our wardrobes for the past few years and are great for both everyday wear and special occasions. I recommend looking for bags that are super-simple and sleek in their silhouette—leave the quilting, excess pockets or bold buckles for another style—to achieve a truly timeless look.

We’ve been revisiting trends from the ‘90s and early aughts, so it was only a matter of time before 2010s trends began popping back up as well. Everyday clutches appear to be on the rise again, so it may be time to dig out your old Poppy Lissiman standby from 2015. These are not the same as your rigid evening clutches, but instead are a bit larger (to better fit all your daily essentials) and less structured. And while a leather pouch is definitely the most classic version, I’ve also spotted folks carrying camera bags or crossbodies with the strap removed. Basically, as long as you’ve got your bag tucked under your arm, sans strap, it can count as a clutch.

Oversize totes have been trending for a little while now, but for fall 2024 it’s the relaxed leather versions that will reign supreme. They aren’t quite so slouchy as to be totally shapeless, but instead evoke a kind of laid-back elegance. Opt for as little detailing as possible—plain black or brown will likely be your best bets—and be sure not to fill it up all the way so that the material has room to slouch.

If the East-West style isn’t your vibe, perhaps you’ll be more into these curvy silhouettes instead. Crescent crossbodies and asymmetric moon shapes are another variation on the baguette bag, but with softer edges. They make a much more subtle statement than the horizontal East-West silhouette, and are perhaps more versatile too. As with many of the other trends on this list, I think the best versions lean more toward simplicity, with not so many pockets or buckles, to really let the shape speak for itself.

Bright red is the trend that keeps on giving. It has been dominating wardrobes since the beginning of the year and makes for a perfect statement, whether you opt for a small mini bag or go all out with an oversize tote (and matching ballet flats and cardigan). Because color is really the only factor here, there’s a lot of room to play with different silhouettes or detailing to fit your personal style. Not sure how to incorporate such a bold hue into your day-to-day wardrobe? Pairing it with warm neutrals is always a hit, or you can go for an “opposites attract” vibe with pale pastels.

Part of the reason I keep touting sleek and simple handbags is because of the growing trend of bag charms. Keychains, mini stuffed animals, strings of beads and ribbon-wrapped carabiners all pop much better against a simple backdrop. This kitschy trend is such a fun way to add personality or a unique touch to your look and can make an old tote feel fresh and new again. In this instance, more is more, so really go for it with as much color and flash as you like.