These It Girl-Coded Handbag Trends Are Set to Dominate 2026

I’m reporting to you live from Marie Claire’s Manhattan office, where I’ve been perusing countless runway collections in pursuit of predicting the most coveted handbag trends of 2026. After spending hours descending a rabbit hole of research (fueled by a highly-caffeinated latte), I’ve identified five standout styles that are poised to go viral within a matter of months. So, if you’d like to get ahead of the curve in the new year, I’d suggest you take notes.

As it turns out, 2026's biggest bag trends offer a little something for everyone. On one hand, brands are ditching minimalism for statement-making designs with high-profile appeal. During the Spring 2026 fashion week circuit, Ferragamo and Burberry showcased frilly fringed bags that embraced a bold bohemian spirit, while Tory Burch and Ulla Johnson dove into the fisherman aesthetic with net-like mesh totes and seashell crossbody bags, as drawstring pouches took center stage at Loewe and Miu Miu. In contrast, labels like Bottega Veneta, Celine, Chanel, and Gucci favored streamlined styles that embodied a no-frills attitude (think: practical carryalls and sleek East-West bags).

Whether you’re in the market for a purse that will make heads turn, or you’d prefer something more subtle, 2026’s handbag trends deliver exactly what you need. Scroll on to find a curated edit of runway-inspired styles from cool-girl brands like Cuyana, DeMellier, Strathberry, and more.

Hard-Working Carryalls

This is for the nine-to-five woman in search of a tote bag that’ll work just as hard as she does. Defined by a spacious construction and durable handles, these functional carryalls are sturdy enough to withstand daily commutes and post-work happy hours.

East-West Silhouettes

Give your going-out wardrobe an upgrade with an East-West handbag coated in a sumptuous shade of black, brown, or burgundy. Follow Hailey Bieber’s lead and invest in Freja New York’s Caroline Bag, or choose from options courtesy of Reformation, Christopher Esber, and J.Crew.

Fringed and Free-Spirted

Fashion’s bohemian renaissance is still going strong. If you decide to play into the retro look, amp up the vintage volume with other trending styles like flared jeans, frilly dresses, and suede boots.

Shoreside Accessories

There might be snow on the ground in Manhattan, but I’m daydreaming about sun-kissed moments by the shore. Designers like Ulla Johnson, Balmain, Fendi, and Tory Burch put a maritime twist on their Spring 2026 collections with handbags drenched in nautical motifs.

Playful Drawstring Pouches

It appears as though some labels are swapping structured bags for slouchy pouches in the new year. These drawstring alternatives stand apart from the rest with a relaxed shape that feels fresh and contemporary.