12 Tiny Purses & Mini Bags That Are As Chic As They Are Kitsch
One thing you should know about me is that I’m an avid mini bag collector. My fondness for small purses has been with me for as long as I can remember. In addition to being a statement piece, a tiny purse is also a talking point — with people constantly inquiring about what you can actually fit in one. I love convincing them just how practical they can be. While tiny purses can feel extra, they also serve a real (albeit minimalist) function. After all, as long as you have the essentials (phone, card holder, lip balm, keys, and hand sanitizer), why bother with a big, bulky bag?
I am also not alone in my love of tiny bags. It's been a bonafide trend for a while now. While there were predictions that the pandemic would phase out mini purses, luxury designs like those from Jacquemus and Valentino have continued to trickle down to our favorite retail stores and online shopping sites.
With over 20 small but mighty handbags in my collection — some that I use daily and some that I simply admire — I've become a tiny purse connoisseur. I'm constantly on the hunt for kitschy and funky options and searching the internet for the best chic and compact purses that I'd like to add to my own collection.
Tag along and continue reading if you want to see my top picks for trendy tiny purses across an array of unique designs, fabrics, and colors. Opting for mini, micro, and nano-size styles, I've meticulously made selections that are no more than 8 inches tall or wide. From a wooden Anthropologie find to a cheesy (you’ll see!) Etsy creation, each of these small purses promises to elevate your style and scale back your clutter.
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Coach's Tabby has made a revival, and I am here for it. The iconic Tabby first appeared in the '90s and has since made a comeback with much fanfare. Not only does the Tabby collection have the Tabby or the Pillow Tabby, but also this cute lil' tiny purse that can be worn crossbody or as a wristlet. Talk about multifunctional!
Coach Tabby Crossbody Wristlet, $, available at Coach
JW Pei Abacus Mini Top Handle Bag
This buttery-soft round-top handle bag reminds me of a neck pillow and immediately gives me a sense of comfort. JW PEI is known for its trendy tiny purses, and this style is popping up all over my Instagram feed. While the brand admits that it can’t fit your iPhone, this sleek sidekick will happily hold your lipsticks.
JW PEI Abacus Mini Top Handle Bag, $, available at JW PEI
Min & Mon Vali Crossbody Handbag — Micro
When I first passed a Min & Mon storefront in SoHo, I nearly lost my mind at the sight of the bags. I own a larger one adorned with colorful patches and studs, but I also love this micro style. The mini mohair and eye-appliqué purse is perfectly quirky yet still practical. It can be worn as a clutch, top handle, or crossbody bag.
Min & Mon Vali Crossbody Handbag - Micro, $, available at Min & Mon
Anthropologie The Bali Latch Top Satchel Bag
I have owned too many woven rattan bags to count, and they usually make their appearances in the warmer months. Anthropologie offers a chic and compact option that I’d be happy to add to my collection. This natural beauty has a unique latch for ease and is made even more special with its little pedestal feet and striped lining.
Anthropologie The Bali Latch Top Satchel Bag, $, available at Anthropologie
Coach Leather Heart Crossbody Bag
Show yourself a little love with a heart-shaped purse. You can never go wrong with a nostalgic Coach piece. This sultry burgundy leather bag can be worn as a crossbody or as a clutch with its detachable gold chain. And yes, it’s perfectly acceptable (and encouraged!) to wear this outside of Valentine’s Day.
Coach Glove Tanned Leather Heart Crossbody Bag, $, available at Coach Outlet
Like Dreams Neve Mini Messenger Crossbody Bag
If you’ve snaked your way down T.J. Maxx’s aisles like I have, you’ve probably seen your fair share of Like Dreams' mini purses without knowing it. Until recently, I hadn’t realized I'd purchased three small purses from the brand. Its overflap bag with faux shearling trim is perfect for the colder months. It can also be worn as a mini shoulder bag to stylishly run errands.
Like Dreams Neve Mini Messenger Crossbody Bag, $, available at Like Dreams
Brandon Blackwood Kuei Bag
No, I do not own a Brandon Blackwood bag, but I will one day. I love all of the brand’s famed chunky and boxy shapes. This top handle bag comes in an array of colors and textures, but the green-and-black-checkered pony-hair style is so magical. With a traditional shape merely scaled down, it's both classic and edgy.
If Swiss cheese-inspired bags don’t put a smile on your face, I’m not sure what will. These eccentric and darling creations from Etsy are statement pieces for those with playful style. The triangular and rectangular options are small enough to look like you picked up a chunk from the deli but large enough to fit your little necessities inside.
MadeByTeddyStore Cheese Shape Crossbody Bag, $, available at Etsy
Cult Gaia Lucinda Nano Rhinestone Clutch
If you’re going to splurge on something so miniature, it might as well dazzle and shimmer. This nano-sized top-handle clutch can accompany any evening dress or even elevate a chic daytime look. The adorable Y2K style may not fit your phone, but it will securely hold your credit cards, lip gloss, and keys in style.
This handy holster has a timeless and classic Kate Spade design. Solely intended to carry your phone — fitting the current iPhone 14 generation — it will certainly get the job done. But of course, feel free to break the rules (because pockets exist) and add any of your small essentials inside this mini crossbody instead.
Kate Spade Knott North South Phone Crossbody, $, available at Kate Spade
Ganni Occasion Top Handle Bag
Perhaps the largest of these tiny purse selections — coming in at a whopping eight inches tall — this sunshiny piece packs a bright punch. Slouchy ruching offers a casual and fun detail to this everyday bag made from recycled fabric.
Ganni Occasion Top Handle Bag, $, available at SSENSE
Mango Geometric Mini Bag
Reminiscent of Jacquemus’ iconic Le Chiquito mini purses, this dupe can easily be styled with any outfit. The asymmetrical shape adds some extra interest to an otherwise sleek and simple style. Whether worn as a top handle or crossbody bag, you’ll look and feel capable of taking on the day (or night).
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