CHAIN REACTION
Models adorned with a chain are undoubtedly one of this year’s most important trends, so make sure to have at least one in your wardrobe. It can be either a shoulder bag, a shopper bag or a mini handbag. Any of them will look great.
Those of you who are up to date with the respective collections certainly know that Saint Laurent, Gucci, Balenciaga and Jimmy Choo were the brands that offered the largest amount of chain-embellished silhouettes. The first two brands prepared for you items in a classic yet extremely elegant version, the brand led by Demna Gvasalia diversified its range with a deliberately aged texture, and the British fashion house focused on extravagance, sprucing the bags up with sequins, crystals and sparkling appliqués.
HANDWORK
When it comes to spring/summer designs, woven shopper bags are nothing revolutionary. But this year, the centre stage is going to be occupied by other forms as well. Top designers came up with a variety of proposals and, interestingly enough… they were not limited to one material.
The collections included bags made from woven leather, which is Bottega Veneta’s trademark, but also constructions crafted from raffia, wicker, straw, palm and even string. These materials have been used not only to create this season’s new it-bags, like Isabel Marant and Marni did but also fresh new renditions of the models we already know. We are particularly thinking of Jacquemus’ 'Le Bambimou', Etro’s 'Vela', Saint Laurent’s 'Sac de Jour' or 'Bon Bon' from Jimmy Choo.
Opt for woven models that have gained recognition from top brands
THE TRENDY BUCKET BAG
The bucket bag is another hit featured in the spring/summer collections of top brands. Although past seasons saw avant-garde iterations of the form, this time designers focused on the classic version, opting for neutral colours and minimalist details.
Bucket bags were taken on by Stella McCartney, Jonathan Anderson, Gabriela Hearst and Sarah Burton. Their designs share a universal aesthetic, but differ in shape and wearing options. Our favourites include larger models by Chloé, with both a shorter and longer shoulder straps, as well as one of the season's it-bags, the Loewe bucket, which – according to the creative director – should be worn casually slung over the shoulder.
STYLISH CLUTCH
Last but not least: clutch bags. The latest shows suggest that casual models are as relevant as special occasion pieces. The difference lies in the design, as larger pouch bag styles are better for everyday wear, while chic outfits can be enhanced with much smaller, but more extravagant forms.
The brands that specialize in the former this year include Jacquemus, Balenciaga and Jil Sander. Their elevated designs may not keep you comfortable all day, but they will hold all your essentials and guarantee a look worthy of a fashion icon. And when it's time for dinner with friends or a major event, don’t hesitate to reach for one of the eye-catching designs by Bottega Veneta, The Attico or Jimmy Choo.