Goodbye Summer: A Throwback to the Bags We Loved
By Claudia Da Ponte
From beachside brunches to city strolls, Summer 2025’s handbag story was one of texture, craftsmanship, and nostalgia. This season’s “It Bags” weren’t just arm candy. They carried history, artistry, and a modern point of view.
Here are six handbag trends that made waves this summer.
1. The Scarf Bag
This year, the scarf became the bag. Draped, tied, or crafted entirely from silky fabric, it struck the perfect balance between bohemian ease and polished luxury. Hermès first introduced the “Twilly” scarf in the 1930s, and its influence endures. What began as a handle wrap has evolved into a fully integrated accessory moment.
Spotted at: Pucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Farm Rio, Loro Piana
2. The Raffia Revival
Texture ruled the runways, and raffia led the charge. Once a 1950s summer staple and later Jane Birkin’s signature in the 1970s, raffia returned this season in both playful and refined forms. Whether shell-shaped or clean and minimal, it added effortless polish to every look.
Spotted at: Saint Laurent, Chloé, The Row, Poolside, Ganni, Self-Portrait
3. The Canvas Tote
L.L. Bean’s 1944 “Boat and Tote” may have started as a practical ice carrier, but it has become a timeless summer staple. The 2025 versions are structured, belted, and trimmed in leather for a chic, travel-ready finish. From the farmer’s market to the Amalfi Coast, it is the perfect blend of souvenir and statement piece.
Spotted at: Saint Laurent, Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu, Toteme, L.L. Bean, The Row
4. Netting and Mesh Moments
Born from the French coast in the 1920s, mesh bags have evolved from fishermen’s utility to fashion’s breeziest texture. This summer, they shimmered in sequins, pearls, and metallic thread, reimagined for both seaside and city life.
Spotted at: Staud, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Miu Miu, Prada
5. The East–West Silhouette
Sleek, sculptural, and unmistakably elegant, the East–West silhouette dominated the season. Its elongated profile recalls 1950s minimalism but with modern proportions that feel quietly confident.
Spotted at: Alaïa, Bottega Veneta, Prada, Khaite, Coach
6. The Timeless Bucket Bag
First created by Louis Vuitton in the 1930s to carry champagne bottles, the bucket bag remains an icon. This summer’s versions ranged from petite to oversized, reimagined in rich leathers, raffia, and polished hardware.
Spotted at: Tory Burch, Jimmy Choo, Burberry, Loewe, Toteme, Aquazzura
Whether you lean minimalist or maximalist, Summer 2025 proved that handbags are more than accessories. They are storytellers of identity and craftsmanship.
This season reminded us that what we carry says as much about who we are as what we wear.
