Frame bags are trending on the arms of fashionable women and men at New York Fashion Week and international designer showplaces, and I’m surprised. This shape and style, marked by hinged metal frame “lips” that run along the top of the bag—usually fastened with a protruding clasp on top—is so retro. It recalls the coin purses that grandma carried. But the new frame bags I’m seeing are updated with softer leather, fabric and sometimes even feather material. Fashion-forward design houses like Loewe innovate them with multi folds and round edges that look more like clouds than stiff bags, and Valentino styles a crossbody with magnetic closure handles for men. At both dear and affordable price points, the look is so fresh, I had to try a bag for myself.
Frame Bags Were the Most Fun Microtrend I Spotted at NYFW—Here’s How to Wear the Retro Style
They’re dress-up and casual
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How I Wore the Frame Bags Trend
I got my hands on the Patricia Nash Kelmscott ($149) and at first, I didn’t think I’d be able to make this work with my casual lifestyle. It has a tortoise handle, a crossbody strap and dual “kiss-lock” closures, so I thought it was too structured for day-to-day versatility. Shock: I’ve been wearing it with everything from sweatpants to shirt dresses, and it looks good. That’s because the construction of a frame bag allows for a little drape of leather, in this case extending out to a 10-inch width from a smaller frame mouth. The softness of the leather makes it casual, while the little handle and crisp metal closure keep it pert. I can’t wait to wear it through spring and summer, since this trend shows no sign of abating—is this a new classic? Here are ten frame bags I’m loving now.
1. Patricia Nash Kelmscott Crossbody
Patricia Nash
It comes in basic black and burgundy leather, and the faux-tortoise handle makes the bag even more special.
Ganni
At around 11 inches long, this little recycled-leather-and-poly fiber design exemplifies the softness of the latest frame bags. A braided top handle and detachable crossbody strap make it comfortable to carry, and 12 colorways include leopard print, snake stamped and trending burgundy.
It comes in multiple colors, but the perky vegan patent leather and gold hardware especially makes me think of springtime and sundresses to enjoy with this bag.
Khaite
In the market for an heirloom? This Italian calfskin bag is an exquisite-yet-wearable splurge. Bonus: The clasp is plated in 18 karat gold.
Aota
The square shape is so contemporary and the exposed gold hardware, including a chain strap, looks so retro-chic. I would style this with really rugged shoes, jeans and sweaters for a handbag version of the wrong shoe theory.
6. J. Crew Portofino Handknotted Clutch
J. Crew
Um, this is White Lotus resort chic for less than $100, so excuse me while I throw this in a carry-on bag and head to the airport.
In five gorgeous neutrals, this mini bag is understated, minimalist and smallish (about 10 x 5 inches), so it’s a great option for daytime or evening. And since it’s all leather, the bag is going to just get more character as it ages.
8. Taschenkinder Top-Handle Bag
Taschenkinder
I’m obsessed with this large (it’s 15 inches long) leather bag that will fit an iPad and whatever else you’re willing to throw in there. In bright red, it is the statement piece that’s going to jazz up any neutrals you pair with it.
9. Contacts Kiss Lock Clutch Bag
Contacts
This wristlet is great for travel, since it’s only 9 inches long and has an additional internal frame pocket to double-secure valuables.
10. Patricia Nash Laureanna Feather Frame
Patricia Nash
Real leather and feather accents make this the glamour evening bag you’ll get so many compliments on for years to come.
