For the fall 2025 collections, we took a close look at the biggest trends that emerged on the runways. Some of the larger themes of the season centered on femininity in fashion, a sense of other-era style that has been a driving force as designers looked back to previous decades, and a cool, modern take on preppy dressing. Unsurprisingly, these ideas also trickled down to the handbag realm.
An array of sophisticated bags appeared on the runways, including sleek top-handle totes. Vanity bags made a big comeback, bringing in an element of nostalgia that harkens back to when travel included a well-appointed train case. Embossed exotic materials ranging from crocodile to snakeskin brought a sense of polish. Ahead, get a closer look at the biggest handbag trends from the fall 2025 runways.
Suede
Suede was huge last year. In 2025, it's even bigger. Brands including Ralph Lauren, Fendi, and Prada are doubling down on the rich texture for fall in a variety of categories, including handbags.
Exotics
It isn't just about one exotic finish, but many. For fall, we're seeing everything from embossed lizard to crocodile to snakeskin finishing handbags at brands including Khaite, Altuzarra, Tory Burch, and Calvin Klein.
Top Handles
Top-handle bags appeared on the runways several seasons ago as elegant style took hold of the fashion world. What started out as a trend has now solidified itself as a key bag style to make a long-term investment in. On the fall 2025 runways, standout styles emerged at heritage brands including Hermès and Louis Vuitton, which reissued styles from the archives.
Weekenders
Travel is on the minds of designers who took to the runway to present bags that feel primed for a weekend getaway. Designs ranged from duffles to totes, finished in everything from Kelly green supple suede at Gucci to sleek black leather at Burberry.
Vanity Cases
Nostalgia was all over the runways. One area where that appeared most clearly: vanity cases. The styles resembles traditional train cases used in the Golden Age of travel. We're seeing the fashion set use them to pack toiletries as well as carry them in everyday looks.
Minaudières
Micro bags were huge several seasons ago. In 2025, we're seeing them emerge in a new way. Instead of shrunken versions of larger bag styles, designers including Chanel and Givenchy are doubling down on minaudières.
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