4 major catwalk-inspired bag trends to know about this season

Get the designer look on a high-street budget, says Katie Wright.

Model with Dune London Daitlynn Tan Large Woven Shopper

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

It’s an unwritten rule of the fashion world that a new season calls for a new handbag.

Even if you’re not overhauling your look completely, there’s something so refreshing about retiring your winter favourite (either to the back of your wardrobe or to a charity shop) and transitioning to a box-fresh bag.

The SS21 catwalks gave us a mouth-watering selection of arm candy, but what if designer prices are beyond your budget?

Fear not, the high street is here to help, with a trove of trendy bags that will satisfy your cravings…

1. Shoulder bags

As every fashionista knows, the Noughties are back in a big way right now, and that includes accessories, as seen on the Prada and Fendi catwalks.

The days of the sporty cross-body bag are numbered – now it’s time to make like Carrie Bradshaw with a brightly coloured, neat little shoulder bag nestled under your arm.

River Island Purple Tie Dye Ruffle Long Sleeve Dress, £48; Purple Nylon RI Cross Body Bag and Pochette, £35

Azurina Sorrento Orange Leather Pochette Bag, £50 (jumper, stylist’s own)

Freemans Suede Effect Shoulder Bag, £26.99 (was £35)

2. Woven bags

Not to be confused with straw beach bags (although we can confirm raffia and baskets bags will be everywhere come summer), this spring’s woven bags are the leather – or faux – variety.

Inspired by Bottega Veneta’s blockbuster Cassette, these neutral-hued handbags are compact and cool but big enough to fit all your essentials. Need something larger? Try a woven tote.

Tu at Sainsburys Light Pink Faux Leather Weave Bag, £16

Matalan Nude Weave Front Cross-Body Bag, £10

Dune London Daitlynn Tan Large Woven Shopper, £95; Hopes Multi Lattice Ballet Pumps, £85 (clothing, stylist’s own)

3. Quilted bags

Quilted bags never really go out of style (largely thanks to Chanel, of course) but they’re having a real moment this spring.

From classic chain strap shoulder bags to mini backpacks, this season’s padded purses are small but perfectly formed.

Kaleidoscope Quilted Box Bag, £35

Dune Dorchester Blue Small Quilted Shoulder Bag, £65

Aldo Agylle Backpack, £55 (available mid May)

4. Slouchy bags

The accessories equivalent of loungewear, is it any wonder super-soft bags have become hugely popular during the pandemic?

As seen at Bottega Veneta, Loewe and cult US brand Mansur Gavriel, these slouchy pouches and shoulder bags are a great day-to-night option.

Deichmann Black Slouchy Clutch Bag, £14.99

Next Chunky Chain Slouchy Clutch Bag, £28

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering