2021’s Top Handbag Trends Are All So Slouchy & Soft
Usually, I’m able to call out three to five trends that are guaranteed to be a hit for any given season. That said, as I started building my 2021 wardrobe, I couldn’t help but notice literally all handbags and purses following the same exact formula: puffy, slouchy, scrunchie (Is this the new classy, bougie, ratchet?!). It’s true—2021’s bag trends all revolved around the exact same look: a laid-back but still luxe approach to leather.
When I was a kid, I remember favoring a brown paper bag over my cartoon-themed tin lunch box. I can’t explain why, but the neutral bag with its bunched nape just seemed ~cooler~, and I was sure my playground peers would notice. I don’t think my bag actually won me any cool points back then, but it seems as though I predicted 2021’s top bag trend at an early age. Pretty much all of the bags I’ve got my eye on right now are ruched and slouchy, and while there are a few pops of fun color, they lean mostly neutral.
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Of course, it’s no secret how this trend came about. When Bottega Veneta dropped their almost $3K The Pouch, it immediately shot to the Instagram Explore page of every fashionista from London to Los Angeles. The “It Bag” of the moment has inspired a whole new wave of design; suddenly, brands known for structured leather goods are opting for softer silhouettes, and details like ruching and weaving give soft, supple leathers some texture and flair.
If you’re saving up to splurge on the Bottega original, I salute you—that said, know you can totally shop the look for less on sites like Saks Fifth Avenue, has tons of brands are dropping gorgeous bags inspired by The Pouch and its laissez-faire leather look. Staud has some of my personal favorites, and Coach’s Pillow Tabby Bag has been on my must-have list for months, but I digress. When the bags look this good, I’d rather show you than tell you.
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With that, read on for a bunch of slouchy handbags in tune with 2021’s top bag trends, and consider kicking your structured staple to the curb.
Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Saks Fifth Avenue and The Sak are STYLECASTER sponsors, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
Santa Monica Chain Leather Top Handle Bag
In need of a new little black bag? Try the Santa Monica Chain Leather Top Handle Bag from Demellier. The gold chain strap makes it feel so modern for 2021.
Santa Monica Chain Leather Top Handle… $450
Huntley Tote
If pouches and cross-body bags aren’t big enough for you, a slouchy tote still captures the laid-back look. This one from The Sak comes in four cute colorways.
Chill Vegan Leather Frame Clutch
The top affordable bag on my wishlist is this House of Want clutch with a chunky chain, available in not only black but also taupe or yellow. We love options!
Chill Vegan Leather Frame Clutch $78
The Pouch
Ah, the bag that started it all. Bottega Veneta’s The Pouch is a seriously stunning clutch that comes in a ton of colors. It’s definitely an investment piece, to say the least.
Pillow Tabby Small Leather Shoulder Bag
If you’ve managed to get this far into the year without seeing this mini bag from Coach one million times over, props to you—and I don’t know how you did it. While everyone has been obsessing over the green colorway, I prefer this black version.
Pillow Tabby Small Leather Shoulder Bag $495
Dumpling Shoulder Bag
The pale lavender hue of this slouchy shoulder bag makes it a great addition to any spring wardrobe. Pastels are everywhere this season, so this pick will fit in perfectly.
Buy: Dumpling Shoulder Bag $29.99
Midi Milan Shoulder Bag
Behold the ideal neutral brown handbag. The Midi Milan Shoulder Bag by Demellier is pricey at $480, but it’s an instant classic that you’ll carry for years.
Chain Handled Quilted Leather Bag
This Chain Handled Quilted Leather Bag from Zara retails for $149, but it looks like it should cost way more than that. Style this gold and white bag with all of your fancy looks.
Chain Handled Quilted Leather Bag $149
Mini Cloud Leather Clutch
The Mansur Gavriel Mini-Cloud Leather Clutch is a great option for anyone looking to invest, but not quite ready to drop some Bottega-level coin. Plus, this rosy shade is to die for.
Mini Cloud Leather Clutch $495
Mila Shoulder Bag
The JW Pei Mila Shoulder Bag comes in a number of fun shades like this light pink hue. The boxy shape it gives it a little more structure than some of the other, softer bags on this list. Priced at under $100, she’s a steal.
Slouchy Ruched Shoulder Bag
This slouchy little black handbag from ASOS is the perfect trendy addition to your summer wardrobe. It only holds the essentials, so it’s great for a night out.
Slouchy Ruched Shoulder Bag $32
Vague Bag
If you’re looking for a staple neutral clutch for 2021 evenings out, Elleme’s Vague Bag is it. The pleated ruching looks especially luxe on cowhide leather. I also am obsessed with the monochrome strap.
Soft Faux Leather Clutch
Last but not least, don’t sleep on Nordstrom’s name brand! This faux leather clutch is a gorgeous option for just under $100, complete with gathered detailing and a chain tucked inside for when you want to rock it over the shoulder.
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