Handbag trends: the shapes and colours of the season

Every season brings its share of novelties to the world of handbags. Some trends last only one winter, others settle in for good and end up becoming classics. To choose a bag that is both current and durable, it helps to know how to tell the two apart.

In this article from our "Gifts and culture" series, we take stock of the handbag trends shaping the autumn-winter season: the shapes, colours, materials and details that come up most, and above all how to adopt them without falling for a passing fad. To choose a bag that suits you, also read our article which handbag for your style.

1. Soft, rounded shapes

After seasons dominated by very structured, geometric bags, rounded shapes are increasingly taking over: half-moon, crescent, round bags, cushion bags with soft volumes. Their softness contrasts nicely with the straight coats and suits of autumn.

These shapes have the advantage of being both original and easy to wear: they bring a touch of novelty without being extravagant. HALFMOON, in a half-moon shape, or EMY, a cushion shape with delicate pleats, are part of this wave.

We will devote a full article to these rounded shapes in this series.

2. Retro and vintage inspiration

References to past decades remain very present. 70s-inspired flap bags, in long or square shapes, closed with a buckle or gold clasp, go perfectly with autumn's midi skirts, roll necks and wool coats. The baguette bag, icon of the late 90s, continues to win hearts too.

This trend has a rare quality: it relies on shapes that have already stood the test of time. A well-chosen retro bag therefore has every chance of staying current for a long time. LADY and LADY'S, retro-inspired flap bags, SERENYS with its gold buckle, or LAYOUN, are modern interpretations of these classics.

To pull off the look without seeming in costume, pair the retro bag with contemporary pieces: straight jeans, a simple jumper, modern trainers or ankle boots.

3. The colours of the season

Autumn-winter puts deep, warm tones centre stage. Brown and chocolate are asserting themselves as real alternatives to black, softer and richer. Caramel and cognac remain essential, warming up grey, black or camel outfits.

Wine red (burgundy) is one of the season's key colours: deep and elegant, it goes with almost everything and acts like a sophisticated neutral. Khaki and deep green add a more original touch, very pretty with beige, brown and denim. Finally, cream and off-white brighten winter outfits.

To bring these colours into your wardrobe, reread our article which handbag colour to choose. Our bags in wine red (LADY'S, FLAME, MANAROLA) and in brown (SERENYS, SOFIA) are perfectly on trend.

4. Materials and details that matter

As for materials, smooth, supple leather keeps its place of choice for its timeless elegance. Pleated or crinkled leathers and soft volumes, which give leather an almost textile look, are part of the soft-shapes trend.

Visible stitching and topstitching are also very present. They add character to a simple bag, like the contrast stitching on PAULINE. As for metal details, gold jewel clasps remain a strong signature: square, rectangular, flame-shaped clasps, buckles…

Finally, the convertible bag, carried by hand, on the shoulder or cross-body, is no longer a trend but an expectation: most new styles offer a removable strap.

5. Adopting a trend without getting it wrong

Following a trend does not mean renewing your wardrobe every season. The key is to tell the fleeting from the lasting. Trends based on classic shapes (flap bag, baguette, round shape) and versatile colours (brown, burgundy, caramel) have every chance of lasting. Those based on a spectacular gimmick risk dating quickly.

If you want to try a bolder trend, do it with a small bag: less expensive and easier to wear, it lets you play without committing. Keep your everyday bag in a timeless shape and colour.

Finally, always favour quality: a trendy but well-made bag in genuine leather can be carried long after the trend has passed, because it will have gained character. Discover our styles in the trending collection and our new arrivals.

Conclusion: current and durable at the same time

Rounded shapes, retro inspiration, deep tones (brown, burgundy, caramel), supple leathers, visible stitching and jewel clasps: the season's trends have one thing in common, they rely on timeless codes revisited. That is excellent news if you want to be on trend without renewing everything each year. Choose a quality trend piece, and it will stay with you well beyond the season. For an on-trend gift, also reread our handbag gift ideas.

FAQ: handbag trends

What are the autumn-winter handbag trends?

Rounded shapes, retro inspiration (flap bags, baguette), deep tones (brown, burgundy, caramel), supple leathers and jewel clasps.

Which bag colour is on trend this winter?

Brown and chocolate, wine red, caramel and khaki, plus cream to brighten outfits.

Is the baguette bag still on trend?

Yes, it comes back regularly and has become a classic.

How can I follow trends without breaking the bank?

Test bold trends on a small bag and keep a timeless everyday bag.

Can a trendy bag last?

Yes, if it is based on a classic shape and well made, in genuine leather.