From the distinctive, unstructured, and oversize clutches on Khaite's runway to the larger-than-life, boho-chic tie-dye tote bags at Altuzarra, the New York Fashion Week runways have served as endless accessory inspiration for the upcoming spring/summer 2023 season. While certain brands stayed true to traditional themes and colors — we can always expect the playful appliqués that came with Kate Spade New York's series of floral purses — others took a more subversive approach to the warmer season's typical palette of colors, textures, and materials.
No Sesso's collection, for example, explored an edgier side with the brand's evolution into "Black Punk." When it came to bags, the shape of choice was a Y2K-inspired barrel shoulder bag in a slew of metallic shades that helped in proving the longevity of early-2000s accessories. The decade's famous baguettes also made an appearance on multiple runways, including Altuzarra, Raisa Vanessa, and, of course, Fendi, where the fashion house celebrated the It bag's 25th anniversary, inviting Sarah Jessica Parker to sit front row to commemorate her time carrying the design as Carrie Bradshaw.
Curious as to what other bag trends took center stage at New York Fashion Week? From polished top-handle bags to giant carryalls, we've got you covered with a roundup of all the shapes and sizes the spring/summer 2023 season has to offer. Whether you're a diehard 3.1 Phillip Lim follower hoping to get the scoop on upcoming releases or you're just trying to revitalize your wardrobe, the following looks are all designer approved.
- Spring 2023 Bag Trend: Clutches
- Spring 2023 Bag Trend: Oversize Totes
- Spring 2023 Bag Trend: Top-Handle Bags
- Spring 2023 Bag Trend: Boxy Bags
- Spring 2023 Bag Trend: Y2K Shoulder Bags
- Spring 2023 Bag Trend: Wristlets and Minaudières
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Can a handbag transform your entire outfit?
Designers know there's a subtle power in the purse you carry. That's why the biggest names across the four major fashion weeks vie to debut the next It-bag every season. An outfit as simple as straight-off-the-floor jeans and a tee, or even the post-yoga leggings and sweatshirt, go from casual to effortless with the right handbag perched on your arm. This year, the spring 2023 handbag trends popping up on the runways in New York, London, and beyond can convey exactly the type of woman you want to be [or perhaps, already know you are].
This season, the biggest spring 2023 bag trends are tending to fall into two major categories. First, there are those in the camp of quiet luxury: Even the humble shopper bag is getting a luxury upgrade this season thanks to Gabriela Hearst and Maryam Nassir Zadeh. Then, there are the trends that embrace the carefree, playful attitude many are relishing as they explore the joys of getting dressed again in the post-quarantine era. Look-at-me metallics and nods to the absurd [JW Anderson's dolphin-splashed bag is sure to be a crowd favorite] encourage you to eschew minimalism and to play with your personal style. While designers still explore larger silhouettes—likely aware that women are continuing to spend more and more time back at the office—spring's lineup doesn't choose practicality just for practicality's sake.
See spring 2023's must-try bag trends ahead.
For spring, think outside of the usual confines of sleek handbags. Brands are opting for playful imagery and quirky silhouettes. Coddle Simone Rocha's bag that resembles a Faberge egg, or tote around a funny dolphin friend courtesy of JW Anderson.
As seen at: JW Anderson
As seen at: Puppets & Puppets
It's cool to be square, at least that's the message being served on fashion's buzziest runways including Luar and Rejina Pyo. Structured top handle styles were popular both in New York and London, so expect to see them continue their rise over the next six months.
As seen at: Luar
Whether you're an avid frequenter of the farmer's market or not, consider investing in the luxury iteration of the practical market bag next spring. The unstructured silhouette, with two handles or a single long shoulder strap, will work just as well for your daily commute to the office as for a quick trip to the grocery store.
As seen at: Emilia Wickstead
As seen at: Gabriela Hearst
As seen at: Maryam Nassir Zadeh
Over this past summer, #Nightluxe rose to popularity thanks to TikTok. Now, the sparkle, shine, and shimmer are getting the runway treatment thanks to designers like Jonathan Simkhai and Tom Ford.
As seen at: Jonathan Simkhai