Last spring was all about the frame bag. And in many ways, it still is, with Coach launching the Kisslock 30 silhouette, inspired by the 1969 “Cashin Carry” silhouette. However, I couldn’t help but notice the brand’s subtle design shift on one of the bags that hit the runway—and the shape continued to proliferate in street style. I’m talking about the barrel bag, an oblong iteration on the east-west bag trend.
Move Over, Frame Bags—Barrel Bags Are Spring’s New It Bag
Shop the style from $29 to $3,200
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Published Mar 10, 2026
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Street style photographer Karya Schanilec brought it to my attention in her NYFW analysis, after spotting multiple versions on the sidewalks during fashion week. As I scrolled through more images from the runways, it kept popping up. At the Coach show, of course, with the aptly named Kisslock Barrel Bag 28 that married the two designs. An iteration of the frame-barrel hybrid also appeared at the Carolina Herrera runway show, and as a clutch carried by guests at Prabal Gurung and Khaite. For me, one of the most iconic barrel bags ever created is the Louis Vuitton Papillon, an emblem of the 2000s. And who could forget styles from brands like Juicy Couture and the Fendi Spy bag? Whether you love the hybrid design or want to keep it classic, I’ve rounded up five barrel bags worth snapping up.
1. Coach Kisslock Barrel Bag 28
Coach
The classic cylindrical shape gets a modern twist. The exterior pocket closes with a metal clasp inspired by vintage coin purses. The Kisslock Barrel Bag draws from an archival 1973 design, and is available in suede or full-grain leather in three colors. A drop strap allows you to carry it on your shoulder or tucked into the crook of your elbow.
2. Gap Barrel Bag
Gap
Gap’s vegan-suede barrel bag is under $50 and comes in three neutral colors: chocolate, honey and classic black. For those who prefer a crossbody, the adjustable strap allows multiple ways to wear it for a hands-free look.
3. Quince Leather Barrel Bag
Quince
Leave it to Quince to make a fashionable, leather barrel bag under $120. The mini design features a suede lining and Italian full-grain leather certified by the Leather Working Group. Inside, there’s a removable zippered pouch for easy-to-lose essentials like lip gloss and keys. Choose from black, mink (gray) or dark brown, with adjustable straps that seamlessly transition from shoulder bag to top handle.
4. Freja Jane Bag
Freja
Like it or not, butter yellow is still a favorite with the fashion crowd, and the cheerful hue caught my eye on Freja’s Jane bag. This version features a structured top handle, rather than a shoulder strap, and the sculptural design adds elegance to formal outfits. In addition to this sunny color, the bag is also available in espresso.
5. Louis Vuitton Papillon Trunk
Louis Vuitton
If you’re feeling splurge-y, Louis Vuitton still makes the Papillon trunk, complete with gold-tone hardware and the brand’s signature logo with an S-lock closure. The cylindrical bag includes a chain for formal occasions and an adjustable, monogrammed shoulder strap for everyday wear..
