Where Stylists Shop: The “It” Bags Worth Investing In This Year

Handbags can come in scores of different shapes and sizes: baguette-shaped, crescent-shaped, petal-shaped , pigeon-shaped – even the odd perishable croissant-shaped bag. Remember the impracticalities of Jacquemus’s micro (micro, micro) bag? Or the prevalence of the Dior J’adior bag ?

Trending styles are a temperature check for what’s relevant. They tell us whether we’re itching for function or form, prettiness or pragmatism. According to these Australian stylists, we’re looking for a balance. These are the most sought-after bags of 2026 – there’s no shortage of capacious and eye-catching styles here.

Charlotte Stokes , Sydney stylist and creative consultant

“This spring’s bohemian moment is all about slouchy silhouettes, tactile suede and fringe that feels rich rather than rustic. The standout bag right now is Valentino’s Nellcote fringe cross‑body. This suede-tasselled beauty channels late-’60s boho elegance with Western polish. I love styling it back with soft tailoring and a romantic blouse – just the right amount of modern boho, which I’m loving this season. It brings texture and movement to an otherwise clean look, making it feel relaxed but refined.

“For a more accessible, minimal alternative that still feels beautifully considered, Status Anxiety remains a go-to. Its Slipping Away shoulder bag in chalk is a perfect companion to a textural, softly tailored wardrobe. Saben is also a favourite for super-soft leather with the perfect slouch – the Hazel shoulder bag in umber luxe is effortlessly chic.”

Lana Wilkinson , Melbourne celebrity stylist and shoe designer

“East-west bags are a huge trend for the season. Think the Le Tecklel bag by Alaia, everybody wants it as it easily can take you from day to night. It’s functional but fashionable. Other designers like The Row, Prada and Magda Butrym have interpreted the trend. I also love The New York Shoulder bag by Demellier London. It will be huge for summer.”

Karinda Mutabazi , Melbourne stylist and creative director

“I would say bowling bags – they’re a ’60s-meets-Y2K throwback with a flat bottom, domed top and two carry handles. I love them. There is a really beautiful oversized brown suede one from Wales Bonner and Adidas. We’ve just finished the spring-summer shoot for Radical Yes and there’s a black satin bowling bag I have my eye on… I just have to wait for it to be released.”

Katherine Rose , Sydney stylist

“I’m noticing an increase in clients wanting larger-sized handbags. Of course, this is a choice of convenience but there’s something very chic about a leather bag so oversized that it’s almost a duffle. I love the Capture large shoulder bag by Aest Studio. The structure, pockets and zips are designed for function, yet it still feels like a luxury bag.”

Liv Brown , Melbourne personal stylist

“For something functional, By Billie makes a great washable mum bag that still feels stylish. And Ganni’s XXL Hobo bag is effortlessly chic and roomy enough for all the essentials. Looking ahead, I think we’ll see more people gravitating towards “east-west” bags. They feel fresh, a bit unexpected and versatile.”

Jana Bartolo , Sydney stylist

“Right now, I’m stepping away from what’s ‘new new’ and heading back to places like Reunion and Style Vault to track down older, sought-after styles I’ve had my eye on for a while – bags with a bit of history and personality. That said, I’m also very into the furry bag and shoe moment happening right now. Melbourne’s Mane store has some really fun pieces and I love the playful energy of brands like Poppy Lissiman. Come spring, I think people will be craving texture, colour and fun – bags that don’t take themselves too seriously.”

Jade Leung , Melbourne stylist

“There’s been a massive revival of some old cult classics and I’m here for it! I think we’re going to continue to see some 2000s classics, like the Fendi Spy, Balenciaga Le City (still one of my personal favourites), and vintage Louis Vuitton collabs like the Stephen Sprouse and Murakami collections.

This article was updated to include additional reporting.

For more shopping advice from some of Australia’s top stylists, read the rest of our Where Stylists Shop series.