8 Handbag Trends Set to Take Over in 2025

Handbags have long been the defining element of an outfit, often taking the spotlight. And as we head into 2025, expect no change in this trend. It might just be the perfect time to say goodbye to some of your old bags and treat yourself to a fresh new accessory. To help with your shopping, we consulted personal stylists to highlight the key handbag trends that will take center stage in 2025 and beyond.

1. Soft, Subtle Shades

In 2025, we’ll continue to see the rise of soft, neutral tones. Expect to see shades like creamy mocha mousse, off-white, beige, and warm chestnut dominating the scene. Pale pink hues are also becoming increasingly popular, especially as we approach the spring and summer months. “Spring 2025 runway shows in September showcased an abundance of soft pink tones, solidifying this trend,” shares Nina Miner, designer and stylist.

2. The ‘East/West’ Shape

The East-West silhouette is named for its long, horizontally stretched shape with a strap that crosses the center. It’s a stylish trend right now, according to Ari Rosmarin, professional stylist.

“You can now find slim bags at any brand or retailer, from Amazon to Bergdorf Goodman,” she explains. “These bags are long and slim—almost dachshund-like—and can transition from day to night with different handle lengths.”

3. Exterior Pockets

Pockets have always been an essential feature of handbags, but now, we're seeing a shift with pockets making their way to the outside of the bags. Picture dedicated slots for your phone—Bandolier is a perfect example—and several exterior pockets that add an extra touch of style. "It introduces a distinctive structure while offering added convenience," says Rhonda Marinoff, a New York City-based personal stylist.

4. Mid-Range Luxury

Luxury handbags are becoming much more accessible as we move further into 2025.

“We’ve witnessed traditional luxury brands soar in price, while new players in the market are offering both quality and style—without the hefty price tag,” says Rosmarin. “I’m still talking about luxury, real leather, and well-crafted bags, but now they’re in the $500 to $1200 range.”

This is still a splurge, but it’s far more affordable than the classic luxury brands that often soar into five-digit price tags. A few brands excelling at this are DeMellier, Toteme, and Polene.

5. Feminine Flourishes

In recent times, we've witnessed the rise of ultra-feminine trends, fueled by movements like Barbiecore, coquette aesthetics, and an abundance of bows. This influence continues in 2025 handbag designs, but with a more sophisticated and streamlined approach. Think pearls, florals, and soft, feminine hues. As Miner points out, “We’ve seen pearl treatments emerge recently on clothing and accessories and the customer has gravitated to these items. The trend will continue to get stronger as we move through 2025.”

6. Bag Charms

While 2025 handbag trends may be more subdued in terms of shape and structure, bag charms have emerged as an exciting way to add personality to your bag. From dainty accents to more elaborate arrangements, they offer a playful way to infuse color, texture, and flair into a simple bag. Whether it’s a quirky tassel or a vintage-inspired trinket, these accessories let you express yourself and give a fresh twist to an otherwise minimalist design.

7. Fringe

Fringe makes a bold comeback in 2025, adding a dynamic texture to handbags. What’s particularly gaining traction are the long, flowing fringes that hang from the bottom of bags, though it’s making its mark in various other forms too. Beyond aesthetics, the movement of the fringe brings a playful, interactive quality to these accessories.

8. Top Handle Totes

Known as “doctor bags” or “medicine bags,” this silhouette is one of the standout handbag trends for 2025. “It’s any [bag] that is a structured tote with a top handle that may or may not have a long strap, too,” says Rosmarin. “They typically have gold hardware. I’ve seen them in leather, suede, and shearling, and some of my favorites are the Ferragamo hug bag, Balenciaga Bel-Air, and the JW PEI Hana Medium Faux Fur Tote Bag.”