Fashion People Are Starting Their Fall Shopping With These Bags

Suede, east-west silhouettes, and rich hues lead the way.

fall bags
(Image credit: Future)

While the summer heat is still in full swing, the fashion crowd’s attention has begun shifting toward updating their fall closets. Contrasting the light linens and barely-there sandals that define warm-weather wardrobes are the first fall handbag trends featuring rich materials and even more saturated hues. If you’re not quite ready to invest in a new knit or denim staple, a statement bag can jumpstart your fall shopping and transition your summer looks.

Shape, silhouette, and color are all getting the fall treatment when it comes to fashion’s hottest handbags. From slouchy suede shoulder bags and elongated east-west silhouettes to structured bowling bags and lived-in leather carryalls, the season’s standout bags are all about relaxed sophistication. Deep shades of espresso, oxblood, and camel are emerging as the new neutrals, adding warmth and depth to everything from breezy sundresses to longline shorts.

Woven details merge the seasons, trading raffia and straw for leather and suede. The appeal of these styles lies in their versatility; these are the type of purchases that instantly make summer staples feel ready for September while remaining hero pieces long after the temperatures drop.

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Consider this your sign to swap your straw tote for something a little moodier. Ahead, discover the fall bags fashion people are carrying now, from standout silhouettes and of-the-moment shades to, of course, the back-to-work tote.

Copelyn Bengel
Contributing Fashion Writer

Copelyn Bengel is a fashion editor and stylist specializing in market work, accessories, trend forecasting, and emerging brands. At Marie Claire, she covers the fashion moments, designers, and accessories shaping the industry, bringing an editor's eye for what's next and what's worth investing in. Prior to contributing to Marie Claire, Copelyn served as Fashion Market Editor at V Magazine and VMAN, where she worked closely with luxury brands, celebrity talent, and editorial shoots. Earlier in her career, she held fashion roles at Bustle Digital Group, Who What Wear, InStyle, and Cosmopolitan, building expertise across digital editorial, styling, and fashion market.