The Only 6 Spring Handbag Trends You Need to Know for 2023

It should come as no surprise that, as our schedules slowly return to their pre-pandemic pace, carryall totes are also coming back into fashion. Bags that can fit everything you might need for a full day—from lunches to gym shoes to after school snacks—are perhaps the best bag trend to invest in for 2023 because even if (or when) we find ourselves eventually gravitating back toward smaller shoulder bags or petite clutches, a large tote will always be useful to have. Look for one with a bit more structure and minimal detailing, as opposed to floppy silhouettes with lots of outer pockets or buckles, to really maximize on this handbag’s timeless appeal.

Speaking of slouch, hobo bags are another big trend for 2023, just not in tote form. Think of this look as the newest evolution of the shoulder bag. While last year’s ‘90s-inspired baguettes had a well-defined shape, this year’s variation is much more relaxed with just the right amount of slouch to make it feel more casual. The key is to find a bag that hits that sweet spot of being somewhere between a sturdy leather crescent bag and a fully malleable canvas tote.

Puffer coat quilting, shimmering paillettes, shearling and faux fur, intricate beading—there are lots of ways to embrace 3D handbags this spring, all equally on trend. Regardless of the type of texture you prefer, we find the best way to embrace the trend is to lean into its somewhat kitschy nature. Opt for fun colors or interesting silhouettes over timeless ones to allow your cheery new bag to really standout.

Structured top-handle bags are another great investment that will never be passé. You can find them in petite versions that are perfect for adding a posh touch to your evening outfits, and in larger briefcase-inspired silhouettes that can fit all your essentials and then some. Regardless of which size you prefer, we recommend choosing a solid hue over an intricate design or a heavily embellished style to ensure your top-handle bag has as much longevity as possible.

Gold handbags and boots were very popular during New York Fashion Week, and we expect that micro trend to only become more prominent as the year goes on. Sequin bags were also a hot pick, both with daintier sparkles and larger exaggerated paillettes, and they offer a fresh way to shake up your daywear. The best versions of this trend are on the smaller side, so as not to feel too over-the-top or gawdy. That said, these bags are meant to be fun, so play around with mixing them in with both your everyday favorites and bolder wardrobe staples.

Rough and tumble aesthetics inspired by classic moto gear and punk rock are trending for both clothing and accessories in 2023. For handbags, this means piling on the external pockets, exposed zippers, shiny silver buckles and exaggerated leather pulls for a metal-meets-grunge effect. We recommend balancing this heavily detailed bag with more low-key clothing, like non-distressed denim or black trousers and a plain white tee or a sleek cashmere knit.