Handbags from top left: chain strap bucket bag / caramel top handle bag / drawstring bag / belted tote / east/west bag / retro IT bag /

Welcome to 2026 and all the new, and continuing, handbag trends! Well, as we move into 2026, there are a few slight tweaks to what’s trending in handbags, but all-in-all, investment bags and the anonymous handbag continue to reign supreme.

The overall handbag in 2026 is anonymous. Logos are out and high quality, timeless style is in. Handbags should have high quality fabrications, clean looks, and no loud logos.

There are several handbag trends continuing from last year into 2026. We are continuing to see east/west bags, belted totes, drawstring bucket bags, hobo bags, timeless shoulder bags, and classic chain strap shoulder bags.

One of the new and emerging trends includes going back 15-20 years to the IT bag era. The Balenciaga City Tote is exploding. If you already own one, pull it out from the back of your closet and rock it now. If you don’t own one, but love the soft, slouchy, moto look, snap one up for your investment collection. In addition, we will see other former IT bags make a resurgence. So, if you own an IT bag from that era, pull it out and wear it. Think lots of pockets, mirror finishes (silver and gold), Fendi bags, and the Chloe Marcie.

What’s new for 2026? In addition to retro IT bags, look for bags in shades of white, pops of color, soft and slouchy drawstring bags, more exaggerated east/west styles, chain details apart from a functional strap, and larger sizes.

Thankfully there isn’t one IT bag, must-have. Those days are over, for now. Handbags under $1000 convey just as much an IT vibe as bags over $3000. So, rock those anonymous handbags and continue to invest in timeless styles you can wear forever. Love that!

Some of my favorite handbags from around the web which are right on trend for 2026:

Thanks for stopping by, and stay tuned for more in 2026!

XOXO
Cathy