Are there any items so prized in a woman’s wardrobe as her favourite designer bags? A trusty companion for work and play, invest wisely and you’ll love it forever (especially if you take advantage of the growing number of luxury restoration services). So, with a slew of new SS23 handbags finally reaching stores, which should you be buying now? Oversized totes are always a good idea – especially if WFH is a distant memory. And you can never go wrong with a classic quilted crossbody bag or chic backpack and, when it comes to brands, a Gucci shoulder bag or Dior crossbody will never go out of style.
Alternatively, shop with your heart instead of your head and allow yourself to be seduced by SS23’s biggest handbag trends. Nineties shoulder styles are back in a big way this season, as are revivals of archival designs, while there’s a cornucopia of colour and texture to choose from thanks to the likes of Alexander McQueen, Ganni and Valentino. And should your tastes move on? Well, that’s what luxury resale sites are for. Here’s our guide to the best new season designer bags to buy now.
Gucci Horsebit 1955 shoulder bag
As the name suggests, Gucci’s Horsebit 1955 bag is an archival design that hails from the 1950s, when it became the first bag to feature the house’s signature horsebit hardware. Its modern iteration was revived a few seasons ago but returns for SS23 in new colourways and with a fresh campaign featuring girls-of-the-moment Halle Bailey, Julia Garner and Hanni.
Ganni Bou Bag
Available in six colourways, including fresh spring hues of pastel pink, lime and caramel, Ganni’s new Bou bag is crafted entirely from recycled leather as part of the brand’s commitment to phase out virgin leather by the end of 2023. Featuring a thoroughly modern hexagonal design, it can be worn as both a top-handle or crossbody bag.
Valentino Loco bag
With its elongated rectangular body and armpit-hugging shoulder strap, this minimalist Valentino design is quintessential Noughties revival. Also boasting a chain that can be worn long or short, it’s finished with the V logo, which is inspired by an archival emblem from the 1960s.
Dion Lee Chain Circle bag
An innovative reinterpretation of the traditional handbag, Dion Lee presents its new Chain Circle as a classic saddle bag encircled by an infinity loop of oversized chain. Fashioned in luxurious Italian leather with four bold shades on offer, this is a guaranteed headturner.
MCM Mode Travia tote
If what you desire most from a bag is the ability to throw in everything plus the kitchen sink and set off for your day, MCM’s Mode Travia tote is the new season style for you. Made in Italy using a fine smooth leather, a roomy trapeze-style interior and detachable shoulder strap make this the ultimate versatile piece.
Alexander McQueen Jewelled Hobo bag
Available in two sizes and five bold colourways – including an all-over embroidered designed inspired by Hieronymus Bosch – Alexander McQueen’s Jewelled Hobo puts a new spin on the house’s signature knuckle closure. Embellished with Swarovski crystals, its dazzling details are reflected in a contemporary faceted silhouette.
Loro Piana Bale bag
Before The Row and Succession brought quiet luxury to a mass audience, there was Loro Piana. The uber-luxe Italian brand has been outfitting Europe’s chicest fashion plates in cashmere capes and buttery suede jackets for decades and its new Bale bag pays homage to this heritage. Inspired by the shape of cashmere bales, its slouchy, minimalist design is the last word in stealth wealth.
Dior Lady Dior 95.22 bag
Image: Brigitte Lacombe
One for the serious collectors, you’ll have your work cut out getting your hands on Dior’s new Lady Dior 95.22 bag – as it’s only available in select boutiques. Reinventing the classic lines of the original Lady Dior, which was introduced in 1995, we reckon its quilted curves and ‘Dior’ lucky charms make it worth it.
Lulu Guinness Collectible Fan clutch
Lulu Guiness’ fan clutch has been a staple of the designer’s Collectibles collection since 1998 and, over the years, has been reworked in collaboration with stars including Paloma Faith, Rob Ryan and Sophie Dahl. For 2023 it is offered in black or ivory satin and embellished with sustainably-grown freshwater pearls; the perfect black tie piece.
Burberry Frances Bag
Free from bells and whistles, nothing says ‘the boss’ quite like Burberry’s Frances tote. Elegant, simple and large enough to conceal the detritus of even the most chaotic day, it’s made in Italy using calf leather and lambskin and will never leave you wanting for a bag to match your outfit.
Gucci Dionysus GG Supreme shoulder bag
The vogue for logos shows no sign of abating this season – especially when said logos are left in the capable, quirky hands of Gucci. Incorporating one of the house’s favourite emblems, the tiger head, to create an ornate closure, this timeless shoulder bag is made from Gucci’s GG Supreme canvas, which promises durable construction and low environmental impact.
Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 shoulder bag
Inspired by classic Nineties silhouettes, the Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 is one of the Parisian brand’s most covetable handbags, working perfectly with tailored office looks and weekend denim alike. You could buy it in white or black but this fuchsia hue is the undisputed gem of the collection.
Read more: The Shopping List: The best things to buy now
The post Arm candy: The best new-season designer bags appeared first on Luxury London.