The Bag Trends You're Going to See All 2021 Long
The bags that will serve you all through this year—and beyond.


As the year takes a more optimistic turn, this will be reflected in what we wear out in public once again. Bags, an accessory truly made to be worn outside our homes, finally have their moment—out of their dust bags and back in the sun. We're collectively feeling ready to step out and carry stuff with us (!), as opposed to last year, which was a great time for phone cases as bags and hands-free fanny packs when outings were less luxurious.
One of the biggest "trends" for 2021 is less about what necessarily came down the runway, but the feeling of investing in a more classic style of handbag—and making sure the value remains intact for selling or exchanging in the future. We gathered up five key trends that are also timeless, so they'll be worthy investments.
Big Chain Energy
A substantial chain strap is a nod to a classic handbag detail, but in a very 2021 “step it up to step out” way. Bottega Veneta has reinvigorated this super-sized hardware, but there are plenty of fabulous options available so you can find your own take on this trend.
Scoop, There It Is
The old-school scoop shape is one to watch. Prada’s Cleo bag, shown here in white, is leading the forefront of this trend, the style being a nod to a similar shape made popular by the brand in the '90s. We love this shape not only for its sleek and minimal design, but because it tucks under the arm so comfortably that it’s super easy to wear.
Monogram Forever
Monogram canvas is a forever and investable trend. Gucci’s heritage canvas adorned with double-Gs and an emblematic red and green stripe, shown here, has proven its staying power. And with the hype around the “House of Gucci” film, it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere.
Go Green
Slime green, seen as an unexpected pop in years past, has now become a neutral of sorts. It somehow… goes with everything? We love seeing it worn super casually with other muted colors.
Sipping on Cognac
A refreshing substitute for everyone's favorite go-to, black, this warm shade of brown will stretch just as far in any wardrobe and looks delicious in a bevy of handbag shapes.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Julia Gall is the former Style Director at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion, as well as styling tips, wardrobe upkeep and sustainability. Check her out at @juliasgall.
-
What to Know About the Cast of 'Pulse,' Netflix's Soapy Medical Drama You're Going to Want to Binge
We would trust the doctors at Maguire Medical Center with our lives.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Jennifer Lopez's Broadway Premiere Look Is Definitely Defying Gravity
She understood the opening night assignment.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Aimee Lou Wood Just Borrowed One of Katie Holmes's Favorite Bags
The 'White Lotus' star dressed like an office siren for her appearance on 'The Drew Barrymore Show.'
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
I’m Buying This $300 Coach Bag Over Any Four-Figure Designer Purse—Here’s Why
From the new cult classic Tabby to TikTok's favorite Empire Carry-All 40, they're everywhere for a good reason.
By Emma Childs Published
-
I Left My Favorite Sunglasses in Paris—But Now I Can Test These Street Style Trends
From retro cat-eye frames to high-tech transition lenses, there's so much inspiration for my next purchase.
By Sara Holzman Published
-
Fashion’s Betting the Boxing Sneaker Will Be the Knockout Shoe Trend of 2025
Let's get ready to rumble.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Paris Fashion Week’s Street Style Trends Are Loud and Luxurious
In-your-face style was everywhere.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
Milan Fashion Week's Biggest Street Style Trends Exude Old-School Elegance
These are the looks worth stealing.
By Emma Childs Published
-
I’m Crafting a Rich-Looking Wardrobe With These Luxury Spring Accessories
Follow my lead by shopping on-sale styles from SSENSE, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
I’m Copying These Street Style Outfits I Spotted at New York Fashion Week
They're low-effort and high-impact.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Copenhagen Fashion Week Street Style's Most Popular Plus-Ones Are Vintage Designer Bags
This fashion week, guests went digging in their personal archives.
By Halie LeSavage Published