A bag isn’t just an accessory, it’s a statement. The latest fashion seasons have given us some serious arm candy. Here are our picks of bags with major main character energy.
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The Gucci Giglio makes an instant impression with its bold use of the Italian label’s iconic GG monogram canvas across an extra‑large tote – and its unexpectedly feminine curves. The word “giglio” is Italian for “lily”, which inspired the bag’s silhouette and how it opens.
It’s hard to ignore the sculpture-like quality of Givenchy’s Pinch handbag, which has been created – and gets its name – from hand-crafted techniques such as folding and moulding to achieve its precise form. A gold-finish metal bracket clasping each side gives even more meaning to the quirky moniker while adding to the bag’s artfulness and security.
The Chanel 25 is the quilted hobo bag released by the French maison this year, and that promptly captured the hearts of fashion girlies and guys all around the world with its street-inflected vintage vibes as well as versatility. Originally available in small, medium and large, it has now been issued in an ultra-cute mini size and metallic finishes for the Cruise season. How not to say “aww”?
Named after the Italian term for “little sweet treat” (cue its small, spherical clasps) and regularly refreshed in playful new finishes, the Pasticcino bag from Weekend Max Mara is one of those IYKYK cult collectibles. Now, as part of Fine Settimana – a capsule collection the diffusion label has created jointly with the Rome‑based tailoring specialist Giuliva Heritage – this clutch‑style design has been blown up to the size of a doctor’s bag and given a charmingly classic makeover in vegetable‑tanned leather. Expect this to be snapped up too.
Anchored by smart, clean lines and the distinctive Dior Oblique jacquard in easy-to-match navy, the Diorstar small bucket bag from Dior is a statement-making everyday bag for those who don’t like to try too hard: not too loud, but not too subtle either.
Arguably the perennial leading lady in the Prada bag universe, the Prada Galleria can be said to have entered its cinematic era: Its latest campaign: Its latest campaign is lensed by Yorgos Lanthimos and stars Scarlett Johansson.
Besides classic finishes such as black or white soft grain leather (above), it also comes in visually – and texturally – lush animations such as studded fringed nappa leather and Saffiano leather printed to resemble snakeskin (both in previous photo).
We all know Valentino Garavani’s aptly named Viva Superstar handbag that’s emblazoned with an unmissable, extra‑large leather V (in background). Now, meet the next celebrity bag from the Italian fashion house that’s much more compact in size and warrants a close‑up for its festive‑perfect finishes. Dubbed DeVain (in foreground), it’s a pochette‑style handbag that comes in the likes of vintage‑style beaded embroidery, metallic leather and even rhinestone‑studded fur. Another head‑turning fact: There are a total of 27 styles to choose from.
The revival of Fendi’s Y2K‑era It bag, the Fendi Spy, for Fall Winter 2025 caused a buzz in both fashion and entertainment circles. After all, this was one of the bags synonymous with many of the era’s chaotically cool Hollywood stars. Now, the Italian label introduces a dinky, perfect‑for‑evenings mini version. To quote one of the original Spy’s celebrity users, that’s hot.
This article first appeared in Volume 4 of F ZINE.