These are the only designer handbags you need for 2024
All the newest - and timeless - styles
There's nothing like starting a new season with a new designer handbag, and for spring/summer 2024, there are plenty of gorgeous fashion-forward bags that will also seamlessly slot into your forever wardrobe.
Trends-wise, we are seeing plenty of tales of opposites. Where the quiet luxury aesthetic is still going strong - Toteme, The Row and Loewe are all backing this - embellishments are also making a comeback this season, with patterns seen at Prada, as well as quirky charms adorning bags at Miu Miu.
While tiny bags and clutches are a worthy investment for spring, especially if you're thinking of envelope bags, XXL totes, preferably slouchy and stuffed to the gills, also reign supreme. Look to The Row, Khaite and Saint Laurent for practical, roomy bags.
While the colour-averse will welcome Spring/Summer 2024's monochrome trend, others will be happy to hear that our love-in with red is also showing no sign of abetting.
If you're heading on holiday or just want to bring the tropical vibes home, you'll be pleased to hear woven and basket bags are still big news.
Other new styles you'll be tempted to add to your shopping list: top handle bags for a ladylike take and bucket bags for something altogether boho.
From the practical to the no-so-practical, the new to the re-imagined, here we breakdown the best new designer handbags to invest in this season.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
Shop the best new season designer handbags:
There's a reason the Gucci Jackie has been beloved since it's emergence in the 1960's and it's exemplified in this classic ivory colour way. Smart, sophisticated yet with a slight edge thanks to the buckle detail, it's the perfect timeless style you'll reach for again and again.
Lucky enough to be jetting off somewhere sunny? Balenziaga's woven tote bag will make the perfect arm candy. While the classic black colour way may seem on the dark side, it offers great versatility, working with the maximum amount of outfits and even when you're back home too.
A favourite style of Jennifer Lawrence and Kendall Jenner, The Row's Margaux has been dubbed the "new Birkin" in recent months so that should prove to you its lustworthy credentials. A true icon in the making.
If you're looking for a classic handbag with a little added twist, you can't go far wrong with Prada's studded style. Available in classic black and bright white with chic gold hardware, it's a bag that's sure to wow.
Y2K fashion lovers, you need to get your hands on Dior's logo printed Besace bag. Featuring retro accents alongside the iconic logo print, it's fun, flirty and surprisingly spacious too.
Mulberry's elevated take on the bucket bag perfectly taps into the quiet luxury movement thanks to it's understated design and sleek, structured shape. An elegant bag that's perfect for everyday.
JW Anderson's chic crossbody is next on my wishlist for many reasons. From the iconic knot detailing to the classic silhouette and bold colour way, it's an everyday staple if ever there was one.
Toteme's T-Lock bag has been much-loved by those in the know since it launched and that love shows no signs of fading. While the classic leather style will always be classic, I'm a huge fan of this suede finish for added luxury.
From the stylish squeeze to the iconic puzzle, Loewe know how to make good bags. While you can't go wrong with any style, I love the idea of this red wine toned Flamenco adding a hint of moodiness to my spring/summer outfits.
While mini bags undoubtedly have their place, there's something about a roomy tote, like this one From Saint Laurent, that I just love. Not only does it make carrying all the essentials so much easier but it gives any outfit an easy, effortless vibe.
If you only want to invest in one it-bag this season, make it Miu Miu's top handle style. Make like the influencers and load it up with statement bag charms to give the vintage-inspired style a fun twist.
Want to add a touch of fun to your look? Alaia's heart shaped bag is sure to bring the perfect amount of whimsy. While it comes in an array of colours, from sky blue to high-shine silver, I have to stand by classic red as this season's must have hue.
If you're looking for a bag that feels completely effortless, say goodbye to structured styles and instead try Khaite's Lotus tote. Made from calfskin suede, it's inspired by the shape of scarves, to create a fluid, soft silhouette.
Shoulder bags make the ideal choice for your next night out and this one from Burberry is a surefire fashion win. Alongside the unusual silhouette, it also features a fun oversized pearl for added shine.
We called it last year, clutch bags are officially back so get in on the trend with Jacquemus' sleek Pouchette. The roll top detail with metallic hardware adds just the right amount of toughness to the simple shape. Plus, it also comes with a crossbody chain for even more ways to wear.
Our fashion editor Natalie Hughes treated herself to a Louis Vuitton Speedy earlier this year so you know it's got to be good. Simply pair with a trench coat, white tee and jeans to ensure it takes centre stage.
While classic colour ways ensure you'll get the maximum amount of wear from your bag, I'm a fan of opting for something a little brighter to add a pop of colour to your look. This pastel pink Ava from Celine will add the perfect amount of sugary goodness to any spring look.
If versatility is high on your requirements list, Veronica Beard's bucket bag has you covered. It can be worn as a top handle, crossbody or shoulder bag, making it a go-to for both everyday events and smarter occasions thanks to a quick swap of the straps.
Penny Goldstone is the Digital Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, covering everything from catwalk trends to royal fashion and the latest high street and Instagram must-haves.
Penny grew up in France and studied languages and law at the Sorbonne Nouvelle University in Paris before moving to the UK for her MA in multimedia journalism at Bournemouth University. She moved to the UK permanently and has never looked back (though she does go back regularly to stock up on cheese and wine).
Although she's always loved fashion - she used to create scrapbooks of her favourite trends and looks, including Sienna Miller and Kate Moss' boho phase - her first job was at MoneySavingExpert.com, sourcing the best deals for everything from restaurants to designer sales.
However she quit after two years to follow her true passion, fashion journalism, and after many years of internships and freelance stints at magazines including Red, Cosmopolitan, Stylist and Good Housekeeping, landed her dream job as the Digital Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK.
Her favourite part of the job is discovering new brands and meeting designers, and travelling the world to attend events and fashion shows. Seeing her first Chanel runway IRL at Paris Fashion Week was a true pinch-me moment.
- Jazzria HarrisFreelance Fashion & Beauty Writer
-
Zendaya just dropped a huge hint about when she actually started dating Tom Holland
Surprised?
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince Louis is the one family member who can make Kate 'lose her cool,' says astrologer
He's quite cheeky
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Taylor Swift’s reference to this London pub has caused huge demand for merch
Surprise, surprise
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
The icons: Marie Claire's definitive list of the investment handbags that transcend trends
A brief history and buying guide
By Penny Goldstone
-
Why Alexander McQueen's jewelled carry-alls are It-bags in the making
We delve into the details of the design.
By Zoe Anastasiou
-
10 of the best classic designer handbags that deserve a spot in the handbag hall of fame
These are the epitome of 'timeless.'
By Zoe Anastasiou
-
Whatever it is that takes to make an icon, we can be fairly certain that Dior’s Saddle bag has *it*
By Bibby Sowray
-
These statement sunglasses are the celebrity-approved item everyone is wearing right now
Oh so cool!
By Sofia Piza
-
Trust me, this celebrity-approved designer bag is set to be the next big thing
In partnership with Prada
By Zoe Anastasiou
-
The One: Why the Mulberry Bayswater is still an "It" bag over 20 years later
An icon.
By Jessica Bumpus
-
Angelina, Rosie, and Hailey can't be wrong, this is the coolest tote of the season
It's official.
By Zoe Anastasiou