The "Dated" Handbag Trend That's Back From the Dead
Graphic via Who What Wear; Image Credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight
Editors Note: This story was published on Who What Wear in January 2025.
Even if you're not superstitious, chances are you've had a missed purchase that haunts you. For bag ladies like me, it's those vintage purses we didn't buy during their prime. I'm not talking about discounted designer bags, but niche purse shapes—oversize bowler bags, barrel bags, or any '90s trend—that we obsessively search for, even if they're not coming back in style anytime soon. (I'll be the first to admit that it's not the healthiest habit.)
Thankfully, there's hope this season: the return of frame handbags. Yes, you read that right. Vintage-inspired clasp bags, first popularized in the '50s, are back with their structured silhouettes, visible metal frames, and kiss-lock clasps. Designers have updated the trend with modern details, making it feel cool and fresh again. Think Ferragamo's sleek, patent leather top-handle frame bags from F/W 23 or Coach's oversize kiss-lock coin purses from S/S 25.
Most notably, what makes clasp handbags so irresistible now is the sheer variety of styles available. Whether you're dreaming of sculptural top handles or oversize coin purses, these bags are destined to haunt your dreams—unless you secure one. Ahead, you’ll see examples of the trend on the runway and curated options to buy now.
On the Runway
Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Altuzarra S/S 24
Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Michael Kors F/W 24
Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Coach S/S 25