A new year is an opportunity for a fresh start and this can also reflect in your styling choices. The most popular bag trends for 2026 are currently shifting towards a more carefree,  playful aesthetic.

Last season designs were defined by the trappings of quiet luxury in streamlined, structured shapes and basic leather and suede fabrics. While this year will be characterised by intriguing shapes and surprising colours,  And this is a great change after seasons of functional basics and minimalism.

Bold, vivid blues are replacing neutral beiges and browns; sharp angles are transforming into organic curves; and smooth finishes are becoming fringed.

And these changes aren’t limited to the runway. Kendall Jenner has already been spotted sporting a chic East-West bag from The Row, indicating the shift from a fashion week favourite to a daily necessity. Here are the five bags you are going to see everywhere this year.

Drawstring Bucket Bag

Victor VIRGILE//Getty Images — Loewe — Drawstring bag

The bucket bag is a timeless classic for a reason, actually, it has never truly fallen off. However, the drawstring style in particular is currently experiencing a significant comeback. Although it feels relaxed, the slouchy, sac-like shape is still stylish and adaptable. Additionally, long handles and crossbody straps are not the main features this time. Rather, it’s all about carrying the bag by the top, which resembles an opulent, large makeup pouch.

Fringe Bag

Victor VIRGILE//Getty Images — Stella McCartney — Fringe bag

We could have imagined boho would remain in the music festival scene (or never leave the year 2012), but it has obviously matured. What used to feel informal or playful now appears striking but still refined. Fringe in leather, suede, or yarn can give texture and movement to any piece, transforming it from simple to naturally standout.

Clutch

Victor VIRGILE//Getty Images — Chanel — Clutch

For a long time, no one wanted to carry their handbag. Hands-free was the trend. If there wasn’t a strap, it was a no right away. So, are clutches regaining popularity? Yes it shows we are evolving. Their exquisite designs and emphasis on style over function make them a go-to for today. Whether you prefer big, slouchy, petite, basic, or embellished, there’s a clutch for every style.

East-West

Daniele Venturelli//Getty Images — Moschino — East-West

The slim, rectangular East-West bag gained popularity last year, so if it appears familiar, you are not dreaming. But in 2026? Expect it to go more harder and completely take over, in a variety of materials, textures, and sizes.

Royal Blues

Celine spring-summer 2026 Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images — Royal Blues

From cerulean to cobalt to navy, expect to see a lot more blue on shoulders in 2026. Whether you prefer monochrome palettes and neutral tones or like to blend prints and patterns, a blue purse gives personality to any appearance. Consider replacing your black or beige work bag with a blue one this year. Options include slouchy leather tote bags, mini-handbags, and more.

don’t miss: 6 Expensive Bags in the World

A handbag can be more than a place to store essentials. It can highlight your style and add a pop of colour and energy to any outfit. And, under  the right designer, it has the potential to become a collectible piece.

Some designs in the luxury market demand extraordinary prices. One example is the Hermès Birkin, as many collectors acquire them through the secondary market because it’s often costly. Apart from this particular brand, there are other expensive bags in the world.

Debbie Wingham Egg bag — Pinterest @Daily Mail

Debbie Wingham’s Upcycled Egg Bag: $6.7 million.

The piece is crafted from materials belonging to an ultra- wealthy client who wanted to give her ‘last season’ items new life for Easter. The bag features almost 8,000 diamonds set in platinum and 24-carat gold, secured with $40,000 Cartier earrings. Its egg segment is a genuine emu egg reinforced with blue diamond-dust enamel. Encased in an asymmetrical 24k gold nest worth $250k, the interior is lined with a silk Hermès scarf. Its most valuable gems are three flawless pink diamonds worth $1.9 million and two flawless white diamonds valued at $265k. It was created by designer Debbie Wingham, 37, who is known for producing high-value bespoke pieces for global high-net-worth clients

Mouward 1001 Night Diamond Purse — Pinterest @ pursuitust luxury

Mouawad 1001 Nights Diamond Purse $3.8 Million

The $3.8 million Mouawad 1001 Nights Diamond Purse holds a Guinness World Record, and was invented by Mouawad jewellers. It took 8,000 hours from ten artisans and is adorned with more than 4,500 diamonds totalling 381.92 carats. Designed by Robert Mouawad, it has been listed among the most expensive bags.

Hermès Sac Bijou Birkin — Pinterest @ Katie Moyes

Hermès Sac Bijou Birkin $2 Million

The Hermès Sac Bijou Birkin is one of Hermés costliest miniature Birkin designs. Designed by Pierre Hardy, this functional rose-gold bracelet-bag features 2,712 diamonds weighing 89 carats. Part of Hermès’ Haute Bijouterie Collection, only three exist, and its rarity has increased its appeal to collectors.

Hermès Rose Gold Kelly Bag Pinterest @The jewellry editor

 Hermès Rose Gold Kelly Bag: $2 million

The Rose Gold Kelly Bag is another high-value Hermès design on the list. It is crafted from solid rose gold and was created in partnership with Pierre Hardy. 1,160 diamonds are used to adorn this purse.

Lana Cleopatra Clutch — Pinterest @ Town and Country Magazine

Lana Marks Cleopatra Clutch: $400,000

In the 2000s, the Lana Marks Cleopatra clutch gained popularity as an accessory. Celebrities including Angelina Jolie and Charlize Theron have been spotted carrying the bag. However, the most expensive version was designed for actress Li Bingbing and features 40 carats of black diamonds.

Chanel Diamond Forever — Pinterest @ Dina Rassoul

Chanel Diamond Forever Handbag: $261,000

The Chanel Diamond Forever purse, modeled after the Classic Flap shape, was introduced by Karl Lagerfeld. The bag has white gold hardware, including a 3.56-carat diamond-encrusted clasp.

read also: Tote-ally Perfect! The 5 Bags You’ll Ever Need

Let’s be real, life can be very stressful some days, one moment you’re racing from a morning meeting, and the next you’re squeezing in a workout class or a quick grocery run. Carrying multiple bags feels clunky and chaotic. That’s where the right tote steps in, totes are more than just a bag,  but a partner that can make these chapters of your day easier.

High-street fashion has cracked the code: totes that don’t just look smart, they also carry your world with calm, organized ease. They’re big enough for a laptop, structured enough to hold a change of clothes, and versatile enough to swing from desk to dinner.

Here are six styles that redefine the modern woman’s everyday hustle

The Minimalist Shopper Bag —Pinterest @girley 

The Minimalist Shopper

Simple lines, soft textures, and no-fuss design. The minimalist shopper is perfect for those who want clean elegance without trying too hard. Its spacious interior makes it a natural choice for sliding your laptop in beside your yoga mat. Giving a polished look all day.

Structured Tote Bag -Goggle @Esty

The Structured Shoulder Tote

For those who need a little more order in their life, this tote comes with compartments that actually make sense. Keys in one slot, water bottle in another, and your gadgets tucked in snugly. It’s the bag that makes you feel in control, even when your day isn’t.

Suede Tote Bag -Pinterest @ zesty

The Soft Suede Classic

There’s something grounding about suede. It adds texture to a work outfit while keeping things laid-back for after-hours. Pair it with a blazer at 9 a.m., then let it soften into casual chic when you’re heading out with friends.

Easy Travel Bag -Pinterest @white elm 

The Fold-and-Go Everyday Hero

This tote is the most versatile of all the groups. It is lightweight, flexible, and very spacious. This bag can be expanded to fit everything from your work files to sneakers, name it all. Very handy and useful for a short trip. Ideal for women who love practicality but refuse to compromise on style.

Luxe leather tote bag— Pinterest @ Manu Atelier 

The Luxe Leather Maxi Tote

When you want a touch of stylishness, nothing beats smooth leather in a large, commanding shape. This tote works like a portable office, stylish enough for the boardroom table, big enough to hold your essentials for a wellness escape right after. I’ll call it the quiet power move.

Go to sport bag —Pinterest @ Gymnastics 

The Sporty-Chic Hybrid

Not all totes are about formality. This one borrows details from gym bags, it is light, durable, and with a cool modern silhouette, but still works beautifully with workwear. It’s for women who like to keep the edge sharp: sneakers on their feet, laptop in the bag, and plans for both work and play in the calendar.

Why These Totes Work

What makes these bags special isn’t just the style—it’s the way they free you from juggling. No more bottomless black-hole moments digging for your keys, no more stress about carrying a second bag. They’re designed for flow, making your workday and wellness goals feel seamlessly relaxing.

Final Thought

A tote is not designed mainly as an accessory; These bags are thoughtfully made with women in mind. If you are an extra packer or lighter packer there is a tote bag fit for your daily movement. With one of these high-street picks on your shoulder,  you’ll find yourself going about your daily business with ease, from meetings, to errands, to work. A tote bag is that grip that has your back.

Check this: These Bags Are All You Need This Summer