This Handbag Trend Will Instantly Make Your Winter Outfit Cooler

Despite working in fashion and editorial for almost a decade, I’ve never been much of a bag person. That is until 2020 stole most opportunities for wearing a handbag (or going anywhere that required a full look in general). Now, having spent the better part of a year mourning my wardrobe, I’ve re-emerged as a full-fledged bag aficionado, checking my saved searches and shopping wishlists daily.

No longer do I just have the staple neutral colorways either — colorful bags in neon green, buttery yellow, and moody navy have also joined my happy closet family in recent months. Styling them has felt like a whole new challenge for me, and one that I thoroughly enjoy as events and parties fill up my calendar.

If like me, you’ve had moments of uncertainty in your 2021 personal style, or just feel stumped with how to refresh your wardrobe ahead of the new year, I highly suggest treating yourself to a bold new bag. Whether you like a more affordable shoulder style from Brandon Blackwood or J.W. Pei, or feel like splurging on an Hermès or Bottega Veneta (hurry, before departing designer Daniel Lee’s Intrecciato styles sell out everywhere), it’s the perfect pre-holiday pick-me-up. Trust me — we deserve it.

—Hannah Baxter, Deputy Beauty Editor