Accessories; Bags

Lucy Woodley
Mar 3, 2020
3 min read

Updated: Jul 6, 2020

Bags are undoubtedly my favourite accessory, fashion statement and investment. From the lust that comes with an Hermes Birkin to the excitement in the range of style possibilities is endless. Bags are recognised as more than accessories - they are milestones in careers and personal goals, and the ultimate form of 'treating yourself' to many women.

the mini bag

Jacquemus has formed its relatively recent relationship it has with the fashion world as a result of its innovative, trendy introduction of the famous mini bag: 'Le Chiquito' and 'Le Mini Chiquito'.

Since taking AW19 Paris fashion week by storm, the range has been a huge success and led to the development of further ranges going into 2020.

Many high street brands have replicated the mini bag as a result of its popularity with the designer brand. Despite the height of its recognition as a new trend in 2018/19, it continues to be a staple accessory to looks this year.

Having said this, industry professionals anticipate this may be the last season we see micro bags take the streets due to the lack of appearance in February's fashion month.

shopper

Shopper bags embody large, eye-catching details whilst maintaining an element of practicality. Both style and substance are of importance when considering the design of a shopper. Recent trends anticipate the come back of the shopper, especially going into the summer months.

Fendi's recent release of this 'Sunshine Shopper' (above) demonstrates extravagance through the 70's inspired colour-way, as well as the integration of fur and floral pattern.

The infamous Dior book tote has been seen styled by an influx of celebrities and influencers, anticipating the return of this classic style.

tweed

After having taken a trip to the Scottish highlands in the 1920s, Coco Chanel began integrating tweed into collections. This era is representative of the introduction of this iconic fabric among clothing and accessories, and how this has become an integral element in the House of Chanel.

(Above: New in collection Classic handbag in tweed and gold metal)

Fashion month has seen the re-introduction of tweed among numerous designers as well as Chanel. (Left: Louis Vuitton SS20 show)

Whilst encompassing elements of British heritage and tradition, tweed demonstrates class and sophistication especially when interpreted into suits (an iconic Chanel inspired look).

nylon

Since first appearing on the fashion scene in the early 2000s, nylon has recently reappeared in collections. The fabric is durable and practical, whilst remaining stylish and depicting simplicity.

The Dior re-edition (2005) bag (right) has been of particular popularity especially amongst the world of Instagram and fashion bloggers.

The bag can we worn a number of ways, and retails in several of colours; the adjustable strap has been styled as a belt and the chain is interchangeable. This specific bag is in great demand and most luxury fashion retailers are sold out.

However, industry professionals predict this is simply just a trend and perhaps even ‘fad’ due to its vast popularity and subsequent more ‘affordable’ replicates.

baguette

Another rendition of the early 2000s style is the baguette bag.

Fendi have a vast range of baguette bags, originating from their introduction in 1996 by Silvia Venturini Fendi, the creator of the ‘it-bag’. This era was seen as ‘minimalist’ for bags, dominated by the aforementioned nylon Prada bags.

Silvia wanted to create a small bag with small straps, ideal for over-the-shoulder, under-the-arm wear. This initially gained criticism due to being ‘too small’, however women adored the bag as it was the first seen design to be close to the heart, creating a connection between the bag and the wearer.