We broke up with bags in 2021 – for that matter, the hiatus extended to dress-up, makeup, style, life (?!) But now that the sabbatical is over and we return to work, travel and play – we couldn’t be more pumped to up our style game with a vengeance. With the endless streams of Fall/Winter runways, the team at Gafencu has been busy curating the most definitive handbag guide for the season, bags which you will be seeing everywhere. 

From retro feels, metal-framed shapes, fur infusion –  there’s a clear shift towards more practical purchases but with the glitz and glamour that the post-pandemic wardrobe demands. Take a look:

1. The back in business bag

From Hermès to Fendi, and The Row, the back-to-business bag which was almost forgotten in the work from home period is making quite a comeback. Reasonably large, grounded, purposeful bags in solid formal hues it screams ‘normalcy’ and ‘routine’ like none other. From making a splash on the runways to a boardroom near you, the trend is reigning supreme. 

There’s nothing new in these roomy, neutral, sleek bags – they are equal parts timeless and trendy. Designers are putting a rather elegant, polished touch to these structured bags and there’s something very subtle and sexy about them. 

2. Croissant Clutches

You favourite food is having a big bag moment. It’s 2021 and why not!

At Gafencu, we’re sticking our necks out and predicting that the laid-back, puffy, soft scrunchie silhouette of croissant bags will be a key defining trend of the season. The fashion world has already fallen for Bottega Veneta’s shoulder pouches – from Instagram feeds to the closets of supermodels and fashion insiders – everyone’s upgrading to the luxe new street style accessory. We’re loving the soft ruched stye and the functional antithesis of the barely-there micro bags which dominated shelves in the last couple of years. 

3. Oversized Cushion Bags

Whether its totes or under-arm sacs, the cushion bags are the ultimate cozy girl’s dream! Easily mistaken for a pillow, they slip from work to party mode and carry a very on-the-go vibe. These bags pack quite a statement and are modern takes on the early 2000s trend of padded, quilted purses. Oversized and oozing comfort, the easy, roomy bags are perfect for carrying all our fall essentials (or half an apartment?) – sanitizer, a whole wallet (eh, micro bag anyone?), an iPad, sweater for the chilly air-conditioning in office, makeup, snack – things you probably don’t need but love to tag along! If you’re not a leather person anymore, check out the Simon Miller vegan-leather puffin bag – stuff of green dreams! 

Also Read: Effortless summer styles to live in all season long

4. Chunky Chains

The chunky chains trend in bags and shoes is steadily growing in popularity even this season. Valentino’s studded, stylish rendition, the subtle flair of Louis Vuitton or Bottega Veneta’s sunshine take, designers went all out to add an exciting pop to any outfit. Unlike the transparent carryalls of last year, chunky chains is more timeless in its appeal – shop the classic gold metallic chain or the minimalist black on black chain or a quirky pink – investments in this trend will pay forward for another five years from now.  

5. Party Favourites

Shiny sequins, crystal-embellishments or glossy finishes – after a year of hibernation, designers elevated the post-pandemic, partygoer’s style by several notches this season. Gucci’s rhinestone-encrusted anatomical heart-shaped minaudieres and crossbodies in various colours were the biggest talking point of the season.

Also Read: The Big Match: The hottest fashion accessories to add to your summer essentials

6. Furry/Fluffy Friends

If winter is coming then this is the trend we’re snugging on to.  Spotted on the runways of Miu Miu, Prada, Fendi, Chanel – feathery or furry – the fluffed up style will be a huge hit once the mercury dips.

Also Read: Second-Hand Luxury: Where to find the best pre-owned designer handbags