Lately I’ve been getting a lot of questions about what handbags are in style this season. Well, twist my arm, why don’t you?
As you probably know, handbags are one of my favorite fashion topics. I’ve always loved a good bag, and I enjoy the hunt for The One with the perfect balance of style and functionality. If I had to choose between new shoes or a new bag, the bag would win every time.
I’ve also learned after years of writing this blog that women are very opinionated about their handbags. You know what you like, and you need it to work for your lifestyle.
Women also vary quite a bit in what they’re willing to spend on a handbag. Some splurge on investment pieces for a carefully curated collection, others just want something affordable that does the job, and many fall somewhere in the middle. That’s why I always try to include a mix of price points in my handbag recommendations.
In the past, I’ve organized this post in a Spend/Splurge/Save format, but this year I decided to share options as we discuss each trend. I still made sure to include a mix of retailers and price points.
Let’s take a look at the handbag styles trending for 2026, and I’ll share some great options at a variety of price points for each. I’ll also highlight a few handbag colors that are especially popular this season.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Spring Fashion Trends: What’s In and What’s Out for 2026
What Handbags Are In Style for 2026?
Handbag trends for 2026 are all about texture and relaxed silhouettes, with a mix of easy everyday styles and a few more polished shapes.
Rattan & Straw Bags
J.Crew Portofino Handknotted Clutch // outfit details
Rattan and straw bags make an appearance every spring, but this year they’re showing up everywhere—from structured top-handle styles to casual crossbodies and even dressy clutches. They add texture and a relaxed, warm-weather feel to any outfit and pair beautifully with everything from linen dresses to denim and a simple tee.
Shop the Trend:
Open Weave & Woven Leather Bags
Quince Italian Leather Handwoven Satchel // outfit details
Woven leather bags and open-weave styles are having a big moment this season. From classic basket-weave totes to smaller shoulder bags with intricate detailing, these styles add texture and visual interest while still feeling timeless. They’re a great way to elevate simple outfits like jeans and a tee or a breezy spring dress.
Shop the Trend:
Slouchy & Gathered Bags
VESTIRSI Eden Suede Shoulder Bag in Brown Suede // outfit details
Soft, slouchy bags are another big trend for 2026. These relaxed silhouettes often feature supple leather, subtle gathering, or a slightly oversized shape that feels effortless and modern. They’re comfortable to carry and roomy enough for your essentials, making them a practical choice for everyday life. And yes—suede isn’t just for fall anymore. It looks beautiful in spring and summer, especially in lighter neutrals.
Shop the Trend:
East–West Bags
Freja Caroline in Oat // Zestt Travel Scarf // Rails dress (sold out)
East–west bags, those long, horizontal shoulder bags, are still going strong this season. Despite their sleek shape, many are surprisingly practical and sit comfortably under the arm. They add a modern touch to classic outfits and look especially chic paired with tailored pieces or simple denim looks.
Shop the Trend:
Bucket Bags
MAISON de SABRÉ The Bucket Soft Tote in Saharan Fuchsia // Madewell Jules // similar loafers // White + Warren sweater (old)
Bucket bags are making a comeback with updated materials and cleaner lines. This season’s versions range from soft leather drawstring styles to woven and structured options that feel fresh and modern. Their roomy shape makes them easy to carry while still looking polished. I need to get a better photo of it, but the MAISON de SABRÉ The Bucket Soft Tote I’m carrying above is a great example of that minimalist look.
Shop the Trend:
Handbag Colors Trending for 2026
Clare V. Grande Fanny // outfit details
Classic light neutrals like taupe, beige, and cream will always feel right for the warmer months. This year, though, I’m also seeing a lot of rich chocolate brown, cognac, and even espresso shades for spring.
Color is making a bit of a comeback, too, with soft butter yellow and shades of green like sage and olive. These still feel very wearable but add a fresh twist if you’re looking to update your handbag collection this season.
I’m also a huge fan of bags that incorporate several versatile neutrals, like the Clare V. Grande Fanny I’m carrying above. With black, brown, and ivory all in the mix, it goes with just about everything.
Over to you. What’s your handbag of choice this season?
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19 Responses
I like the look of the woven bags. Still on the fence about actually purchasing one. If I had to choose between buying shoes or a handbag, shoes are my more likely purchase. 🙂
Great comprehensive roundup! I’ve spent at least two years trying to find the perfect rattan bag for me, and I think I’m just going to spend the $$ on Sezane’s Isabelle raffia handbag/clutch situation. I’ve also got my eye on the crossbody version of Madewell’s signature woven bag. Maybe in red, since that seems to be the trending color right now and it would work well with all the shades of blue I tend to wear. I’m still trying to give the east-west shape a chance, but so far, that look is just not something I love! I do like the white version you’re carrying in the photo if I were to go that direction.
I had to look it up. That Sezane bag is gorgeous!
I love the silver and gold coin necklace you’re wearing with Rails dress! Have you shared that before? Would you mind linking it? Thank you!
It’s the Anna Beck.
I love the rattan and straw bags for summer. Such cute styles.
I am currently doing the Vivrelle subscription. Not sure if you have heard of it or not. This is my first month. Trying it out to see what I like. I may end up using through Spring/Summer and then let it go. But it’s a fun option.
I have looked at that! And they actually offered to give me a month subscription to try, but I didn’t know if I would like “borrowing” bags. Glad to know you are enjoying it.
I love all of these! I’m looking forward to carrying a rattan handbag for the warmer summer months…, and picking up a new everyday handbag as well.
No crazy weather here yet.. but a lot of rain and high winds coming in over night.
Yeah, ours is supposedly coming later too.
Love all of these too! Handbags are my weakness too! Thank you for the round up of what is in style now.
Question – the Quince linens pants you wore at St. Lucia – did they shrink after you washed them? What size did you decide to keep?
I haven’t washed them but they did stretch out when I wore them. I wish I hadn’t returned the size 10. I have re-ordered them. 🥹
I guess out of the ones you showed the bucket bag would be my fave ALTHOUGH a MUST HAVE feature is a pocket on the outside of the bag for my phone – I hate having to root around inside a bag for my phone even if there are pockets inside. I also “prefer” a bit more structure that a couple of the other bags listed but they sure are cute.
I do love a good, big phone pocket on the outside, or when then are easily accessible on the inside of a bucket bag or tote.
This is a bit off topic… although it is about BAGS… but a weekender. I know you have the Beis the weekender travel bag and you take it with you with your small away carryon luggage. I was wondering if the Beis bag is able to fit UNDER the seat in front of you on the plane. Trying to figure out the best bag to take with me for carryon, with one going in the overhead bin and 1 stored in front of me.
Thanks so much!
I don’t have the BEIS, sorry! I have the AWAY Everywhere Bag and the Quince duffle.
Thank you for a great roundup. I have been looking for a great rattan or straw bag but I have to have a cross body. I have lots of travel this year with events and I need to have my hands free.
I hear ya on needing a crossbody for travel. How about this one? https://go.shopmy.us/p-47825826
I just found this! It would be great for travel: https://go.shopmy.us/p-47903403
I have 70 bags of all of those types in my closet 🤣I used to be a bag addict 🤣