With autumn now just around the corner, it is time to switch your beach tote for a more seasonably appropriate bag. Fortunately, there is a variety of stylish bags in different sizes, fabrics and shapes, with all of them being perfect for autumn. There is a return of a classic shape, the double top-handle tote, with thick metal chains replacing traditional straps, as well as vintage-inspired fashions, particularly with a sophisticated 1960s twist from beaded iterations to supple leather and satin. There are also oversized bags, right angles, parallel lines and cool geometric shapes in terms of design, along with shearling and bucket bags and brightly coloured hard-shell clutches that are trendy this season. Here are some of the latest bag trends that are worth looking at this autumn. Thick chains Thick chains: Decorative chains are the statement accent on bags this autumn, adding a rough and industrial touch to high-fashion bags. Thick, silvery chains are used instead of hardware over bag clasps, elevating them beyond the position of simple straps.
Oversized bags Oversized bags: With extra room needed for new essentials like hand sanitiser and spare masks, oversized bags make the perfect choice this year.
Double top-handle totes Double top-handle totes: From heritage-inspired styles to super-sleek and minimal versions, the double top-handle tote is seeing a triumphant return for the autumn season.
Reusable bottle bag Reusable bottle bag: With its long, cross-body strap, bottle bags are convenient for casual occasions. They are made of a classy combination of mesh and leather, with both a strap for over-the-shoulder carrying and smaller straps for attaching to a larger bag.
Geometric purses Geometric purses: While a classic bag is a safe investment, designers cannot resist playing with shapes this season to create remarkable trendy purses.
Patchwork bags Patchwork bags: This season, many designers have looked to reduce the eco-footprint of their collections by repurposing fabric scraps from older collections. The result has been fabulous patchwork bags with a lot of colourful, handmade charm.
Shearling bags Shearling bags: Just as shearling showed up on coats and jackets, it has also covered all kinds of autumn handbags, giving a cosy touch to accessories.
Vintage coin purses Vintage coin purses: These standout popular clutches are essential with a kiss-clasp or magnet-clasp at the top.
Perfect matches Perfect matches: The days of matching your bag to your shoes are long gone, but matching is not totally out today. Think about matching your bag to your outfit material this autumn.
Professional totes Professional totes: This is a somewhat prim and proper style that is really not a trend as much as an updated classic. Some designers have combined trends by presenting small-sized croc-embossed totes with solid construction and built-in handles.
Shiny purses Shiny purses: This autumn's trends include some great party bags that are covered in jewels and beads to add shine to any look.
*A version of this article appears in print in the 10 September, 2020 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly
