Big bags reclaim 'it' bag status
Oversized handbags have once again become the must-have accessory in the fashion world. Leading luxury brands have pioneered the trend, with spacious bags gaining popularity among influencers and celebrities. As A-list stars embrace the style, mainstream brands have followed suit, fueling the demand.
Just a few years ago, micro-mini bags dominated fashion, barely fitting a smartphone or lipstick. However, large bags have made a strong return, driven by consumers' growing need for practicality and versatility.
Like with most trends, the oversized bag was first reintroduced by luxury brands on collection runways before its popularity rippled out to more accessible brands after a season or two.
Miu Miu's 2024 spring-summer collection introduced the "overstuffed bag" style, with bags so full they couldn't be zipped close. Popular K-pop idols like Ive's Jang Won-young also helped the oversized bag trend go viral by posting pictures with these bags on social media.
"As people return to commuting post-pandemic, they are increasingly leaning toward bags that can hold all their belongings. Small handbags just don't have the capacity, so many are opting to carry a tote in addition to a small handbag," said Kay Barron, fashion director at Net-A-Porter.
Slingo's 2025 Luxury Bag Trend Report, which used Google Keyword Planner to analyze search data from the past 12 months, along with social media insights from Instagram and TikTok hashtags, highlights the return of the large tote bag as one of the most anticipated accessories. The report also notes that the "quiet luxury" movement, focused on minimalist design and functionality, will dominate the handbag market.
Ferragamo's Hug Bag tops the list for 2025, praised for its buttery leather and versatile design. With nearly 90,000 Google searches since its debut in 2023, a 23 percent increase in searches in the last three months and celebrities including Kylie Jenner being photographed with it, it has become a defining "it" bag.
Bottega Veneta's Andiamo Bag, known for its minimalist appeal and signature Intrecciato weaving, follows closely behind in popularity. The bag has seen an increase of just over 20 percent in searches in the last three months. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber have helped fuel its rise, with over 2,000 social media posts tagged with its name. Coach's Brooklyn Shoulder Bag and Yves Saint Laurent's Bucket Bag have also seen increased interest, with Coach's bag experiencing a 22 percent rise in the last three months.
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