The pandemic has inadvertently affected how consumers spend in recent months. Many bag lovers eschewed seasonal trends for more classic shapes that were newly released by their favourite designer brands (Loewe’s Balloon Bag, Louis Vuitton’s Pont Neuf, and Dior’s Bobby were instant hits). But brands are hoping to lure back customers this autumn with the season’s trends. While there will always be the staple, recurring autumn trends like shearling and fringes, here are five others that are reigning supreme for 2020.
Chains
Chains adorned some must-have bags last season and will continue to do so for autumn. Chains in the form of plated hardware form the straps of bags, reminiscent of Bottega Veneta’s SS20 Pouch addition with oversized chain straps. But oversized chains are not just meant to be used as straps, some also serve solely as decorative accoutrements on the bag. Case in point, JW Anderson’s Chain bag with the large decorative curb chain as focal point, giving it an edgy, industrial-chic look.
Patchwork
Patchwork bags might have accidentally become a by-product of leftover fabric or materials from other projects. Patchwork has since become a popular, seasonal trend, though it can be a tricky one. Improper execution, like not placing together cohesive colours or textures, as well as patterns on patchwork, puts the bag at risk of looking cheap and dated. But when done well and in the right shape, patchwork bags can be chic and timeless. Making their debut for autumn 2020 are patchwork bags in different autumnal shades and textures. A noteworthy mention is Miu Miu’s oversized classic flap with chevron patchwork pattern in rich red and pink hues.
Unique Shapes
It is refreshing to see brands innovate and create new shapes for bags rather than revert to safer, basic shapes that are cookie-cutter consumer favourites. Geometric and unconventional shapes are an interesting trend this autumn 2020. Lanvin’s patisserie box-shaped leather bags for instance, added that quirky factor and punctuated the autumn-hued collection featured in the directorial debut of designer Bruno Sialleli for the maison.
Hard-Side Boxes
There has been a surge in interest for structured, hard-side bags from minaudières to “vanity case” bags. Though the hard-shell style was once predominantly seen on hand-held evening bags, more practical sizes have cropped up of late complete with detachable shoulder straps which make it more convenient for hands-free carry. Fendi’s Pink Box Bag fits the bill – this style was introduced in a different colourway (in signature Fendi yellow) during the menswear collection which preceded the womenswear show for autumn 2020.
Puffy Bags
There is something so oddly comforting about puffy bags – a style that takes inspiration from winter puffy jackets and coats. And like the jacket which serves to protect the wearer from harsh weather elements, the bag also serves as an armour for some of your important daily essentials. Tod’s oversized puffy gommino hobo looks easy on the eyes and hits two trends in one bag with its magnified signature imprint of the brand’s gommino pebble.
Editor
Ingrid Chua
