As fashion editors we’re often asked what the latest ready-to-wear trends will be, but as quickly as we can suggest balloon jeans and red tights, the season has shifted and we’re already having to look ahead to the next big thing. But, one thing that moves a little slower with the times is a good accessory. After all, an exceptional handbag is the difference between a good outfit and a great one, and when you’re paying a little extra for something like a designer bag, you want to know that your investment will go the distance. So, if you’re interested in refreshing your look at the start of a brand new year, I’m not going to suggest a long list of “must have” pieces, instead I want to focus on the big one that will actually make a difference to your wardrobe: the handbag.
Unlike shoes, whose reliability changes from season to season, bags are a year round necessity, so the bag you buy now deserves some careful thought as it will become a wardrobe staple for the next 12 months and beyond. The chances are that you already have an “old faithful”, you know—the kind of black leather bag you’ve been using for years and can still dust off for any occasion, but should you be interested in something a little more buzzy, it’s time to turn our attention to the handbag colour trends that are set to be very big in 2024.