by Harriet Davey.
For me, bags have always been an important part of any outfit. They’re the cherry on top of the sartorial cake, and the finishing touch that can possess the power to be a talking point at an event, dinner or even just day-to-day. While I used to be somewhat of an accessories collector (I liked to match my bag, belt and earrings as a teenager), now, I have a more refined edit of pieces I tend to wear on heavy rotation. And when it comes to choosing a new bag, I don’t take this decision lightly. Of course, if I had an endless budget, I would own a Birkin, a Chanel 2.55 (in black and butter yellow), and basically every Loewe bag ever created. As one of my favourite accessory designers, the Spanish label can do no wrong in my eyes. But imaginary budget aside, when I do splurge on a bag, I have to know I’ll wear it now, next month, next year and for years to come. Working as a fashion editor for over 10 years, I’ve also always happily raved about the mid-price brands who are so brilliant, they rival some of the highest end designers – with Polène, Neous and DeMellier being some of my favourites. And here’s not forgetting the great British high street, because there’s plenty of bag styles out there that look premium, feel luxe and will last you a long time if you look after them in the same way you would a designer style.
While I don’t tend to follow trends when it comes to the bags I choose, of course some of the latest styles manage to grab my attention. I love the mini pencil case styles that are coming from the likes of Alaia to Mango, I’m a fan of all the rich burgundy shades and I must admit – even as a small bag fan – I enjoy the supersize carry-everything-including-your-kitchen-sink jumbo sizes we’re seeing filtering down from The Row and Victoria Beckham runways for spring/summer 2024.
If I had to pick bags to add to my much-loved collection right now, these are the six styles that are firmly on my wish list. And to make these wishes come true, I better start playing the lottery!
Alaïa
Le Teckel
The ‘pencil case’ bag is a key shape this season. A version of the micro mini bags seen all over the catwalks – at Chanel, Fendi and Versace – I love the slim fit-barely-anything style from Alaïa. Although it’s a splurge on a slightly impractical shape, the timeless colourways and sleek fuss-free design means it’ll go with every outfit and be loved for years to come. I’ve been thinking about the plain black style for a while, but now I know I want it in the new monochrome colourway – SO chic!
Miu Miu
Tote Bag
While I still love, and wear, my Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza anagram basket bag I got a few years ago, I’m on the lookout for another key summer style. Enter: Miu Miu’s woven wonder. Adding interest to even the simplest of looks, this crocheted style feels fresh for the warmer months. I also know I would wear it so many times with everything from light linen dresses to cool co-ords when on holiday or at home.
Polène
Numéro Dix
As one of my ultimate favourite mid-price labels, I own two Polène bags already – including the Numéro Dix. And let me tell you, it’s one of the most-complimented pieces in my wardrobe that always makes people ask me where I got it from. I wear the half-moon style as a crossbody so it’s a great everyday style that lets me be hands-free when I’m shoot prepping or en-route to events. While black has served me well, I would like to have it in a lighter hue to go with all my summer ensembles. Luckily, this style comes in not one, not two, but 17 different colourways – yes, really!
JW Pei
Joy
Burgundy is a staple colour for spring/summer 2024, particularly when it comes to bags. While I’ve had the Loewe Paseo in my saved basket at Net-a-Porter for months, there are now so many iterations coming through from more affordable brands, too. LA-based vegan brand, JW Pei always creates interesting silhouettes that are bound to be a highlight of any outfit. This sleek, curved shoulder bag would look so good with a dusty pink dress for a wedding or with jeans and a one-shoulder top for after-dark.
Khaite
Lotus
Suede jackets, shoes and bags are having a moment this season, and I’m on board. Khaite has created this mini tote and it’s ideal for someone (like me) who prefers smaller styles. Also perfect for minimalists, this bag would look best with classic tonal pieces such as linen shirts, ecru jeans and classic vest tops. Trust me, so many fashion insiders are going to be wearing this one for 2024.
Loewe
Raffia
As my favourite designer brand (especially for accessories), no wish list would be complete without a Loewe bag. I wear a lot of stripes, and I also have stripes in my home interiors, so naturally I’m drawn to this fun raffia logo bag. Whether it’s a city/ beach break or just with everyday outfits, I know I would get so much wear out of it – yep, this is me justifying that I need yet another Loewe bag. Sorry, bank card!
Check out my article “High Street Hottest Handbags”
