All That Glitters

The roaring 2020s were in full swing during the spring 2025 shows, as many designers showed off a heavy hand when it came to embellished accessories. Specifically, Louis Vuitton dipped its Petit Malle trunk in silver glitter, while Gucci matched a paillette-covered purse to an equally sparkling dress. Fendi got its 100th anniversary party started with an adorned baguette and Chanel showed off its classic flap bag in sequins. It’s safe to say that if you have a glamorous gala to go to this spring, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to your handbag.

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On the Fringe

Printed Bags

But fringe wasn’t the only ’70s-inspired trend that made its way onto the bags of this season. Much of the arm candy that walked down the spring 2025 runways featured prints, specifically retro ones. Versace’s top-handle bags sported some psychedelic patterns, while Alessandro Michele’s Valentino debut had its fair share of colorful carpet bags. Gucci turned its signature horsebit into a pattern and Prada spiced up a simple rectangular design with some well-placed cheetah print.

Twisted Lady Bags

Another trend that has extended across categories is the alternative take on classics we’ve dubbed the “Twisted Lady.” Designers seem enamored with the idea of a proper dame gone slightly mad, and many of them sent bags down the runway that were slightly…off. Balenciaga and Prada’s top-handle offerings looked like they got squeezed by a pair of forceps, and Versace’s respectable woman mistakenly brought her jewelry case out to lunch instead of her purse. The more ubiquitous take on this look, however, came in the form of comically oversize takes on traditional designs, shown at Miu Miu, Ferragamo, and Coach—the last of which had models clutching coin purses fit for a giant.

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Collegiate Carry-Alls

One might not usually think of backpacks as high fashion, but designers proved us all wrong on the spring 2025 runways. Many brands embraced the double-strap design in ways that felt true to their aesthetic. Coach turned those coin purses into backpacks, while Matthieu Blazy at Bottega Veneta, of course, presented a woven version. There were padded backpacks at Chanel and a wicker basket backpack at Ralph Lauren. In fact, it was only Miu Miu who stayed true to the inspiration of a classic school bag, though the shocking red color and leather details elevated Miuccia Prada’s take to the next level.