One thing you should know about me is that I’m an avid tiny 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 Covid-19 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-sized styles, I've meticulously made selections that are no more than eight 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.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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 ithis micro styles. 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 Nordstrom
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 ponyhair style is so magical. With a traditional shape merely scaled down, it's both classic and edgy at the same time.
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.
Cult Gaia Lucinda Nano Rhinestone Clutch, $, available at Cult Gaia
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).
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 pastel punch. Slouchy ruching offers a casual and fun detail to this everyday bag made from recycled fabric.
Looking to go out all for Valentine's Day this year? If you can't book a once-in-a-lifetime romantic getaway, your next best bet is to swing for the fences with the gift. We love getting sweet treats as much as the next person, but this list takes a look at the truly show-stopping options. We included some of the classics, like jewelry, but also thought of high-end buys that go beyond the classic V-Day gifts. And don't worry, these aren't just for your romantic partner. If you want to treat your bestie to the latest it bag, we've thought of that, too.
There's everything from beauty to fashion to kitchen staples that fit your loved one's preference. Transform their home into a lush-smelling spa with Muji's most popular aroma diffuser or Jo Malone's best-selling candle. They could be a homebody who loves their bed more than anything, and a Jenni Kayne cardigan or luxurious silk comforter might be their perfect gifts. Or maybe they're a baker who binges The Great British Baking Show and needs an upgraded baking set. One thing is for sure is that these gifts, no matter their purpose, will make your recpient feel truly spoiled come February 14. We won't spoil the rest, so browse the 13 best luxurious Valentine's Day gifts ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Of all Jo Malone's delicate scents, English Pear and Freesia is one of the most well-recognized. It will transform the atmosphere around them with a luxurious, clean scent. It will also look beautiful when not in use, whether it's on their coffee table, desk, or vanity.
Jo Malone London English Pear & Freesia Home Candle, 7 oz., $, available at Bergdorf Goodman
Caraway 11-Piece Bakeware Set
Valentine's Day is the holiday of sweet treats, and what better way to allow your favorite baker to brush up on their skills than with an 11-piece Caraway Bakeware Set? The ceramic-coated set is beautiful enough to display and comes with neat storage organizers.
Caraway 11-Piece Bakeware Set, $, available at Caraway
Jenni Kayne Cooper Cardigan
We'll forever rave about Jenni Kayne's Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan, but today we're here to introduce you to the Cooper Cardigan. Unlike its more famous older sibling, this sweater has a structured hourglass silhouette and a very slight bell sleeve for an eye-catching piece. Chic and cozy, what more could a Valentine want?
Jenni Kayne Cooper Cardigan, $, available at Jenni Kayne
Cozy Earth Comforters
Luxury usually has a pricetag, but is there anything more luxurious than a good night's sleep? While you can't guarantee your recipient eight solid hours of Zzzs, you can give them a headstart with a truly decadent comforter.
Cozy Earth's Comforter in Silk is ultra soft and lush, with 100% Mulberry Silk, and is covered with premium bamboo viscose. It has temperature-regulating benefits, comes in three sizes (twin, queen/full and king), and is an all-season favorite.
Cozy Earth Cozy Earth Comforters Queen/Full Size, $, available at Cozy Earth
Valentino Donna Born In Roma Coral Fantasty Eau De Parfum
I might be biased since I own this fragrance myself, but trust me; it's a perfume any fruity floral-loving person would adore. I received a sample, and I kid you not, and I ordered it immediately after one spray.
Notes of juicy kiwi are enhanced with a subtle hint of rose and an infusion of jasmine for a bright, balanced scent. I find that it gets better over time too, so when you come home after a long day, you still have a delicate aroma around you.
Valentino Valentino Donna Born In Roma Coral Fantasty Eau De Parf, $, available at Nordstrom
Rimowa Personal Polycarbonate Cross-Body Bag
Rimowa is one of the most luxurious travel accessory brands out there, easily at the top of many traveler's wishlists. But guessing what luggage size a frequent flier needs might be tricky, which is why we recommend checking out the brand's travel-ready totes and bags.
Rimowa's new sleek full-grain Italian leather cross-body bag is a mini replica of the label's suitcase, with two open compartments, a zipped pocket, and three credit card slots. Go big or go home this Valentine's Day.
Rimowa Polycarbonate Cross-Body Bag, $, available at Rimowa
J.Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater
Everyone deserves a soft cashmere sweater, and J.Crew has the a relaxed-fit everyday style for them (or you) to wear daily. Stick with the neutral hues or opt for a more vibrant statement piece — there's a color for everyone's closet.
J.Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater, $, available at J.Crew
FRAME Relaxed Straight Cargo Pants In Noir
Meet the luxurious twin to denim cargo pants. They exude the same laid-back aura but with a sassy and chic flair. It's perfect for your career-oriented friend who has that confident boss persona.
Frame Relaxed Straight Cargo In Noir, $, available at Frame
Mejuri Essential Pearl Necklace
Heirloom-quality jewlery will be as a long and treasured reminder of the gifter. Mejuri's pearl necklace is a thoughtful token that your loved one will cherish and wear for years.
Mejuri Essential Pearl Necklace, $, available at Mejuri
Stella McCartney 55MM Butterfly Sunglasses
Treat your most stylish bestie to a pair of polished designer sunnies. This pair from Stella McCartney have a feminine tortoiseshell butterfly frame that will elevate any outfit.
Stella McCartney 55MM Butterfly Sunglasses, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Cult Gaia Hera Nano Knotted Embellished Shoulder Bag
Dazzle your partner with a trendy, slouchy bejeweled shoulder bag from Cult Gaia. All the street style stars have one in their wardrobe, so you know they'll have plenty of style inspo.
The frosted silhouette is multidimensional and can be classy for date nights, graceful weddings, and chic for Friday night outings.
Cult Gaia Hera Nano Knotted Embellished Shoulder Bag, $, available at Neiman Marcus
Muji Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser
Your beauty or skin care-obsessed friend will be thrilled to discover that they can make their home into a relaxing spa. All you have to do is buy add a face mask and one of Muji's pure essential oils for an instant peaceful day of self-care.
Muji Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser, $, available at Muji
Bottega Veneta Green Zippered Card Holder
Upgrade their cardholder to a Bottega Veneta and watch them gasp. Choose none other than the brand's green zippered cardholder that features the signature intreccio-woven design and iconic hue. The color and style are beloved by celebs like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner.
Bottega Veneta Green Zippered Card Holder, $, available at SSENSE
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While cotton underwear and thongs are in regular rotation, one intimate, in particular, is finally getting the long-overdue attention it deserves: granny panties.
No longer sequestered to the back corners of our drawers, the ultra-comfy, full-coverage undie in the granny variety continues to see a spike in demand. And it looks like when it comes to underwear, the bigger-the-better motto applies — which is excellent news for the mother-daughter duo behind the brand Bloomers.
“I thought to myself, ‘I can’t be the only woman in the world looking for comfortable, sexy granny panties,” Bloomers’ co-founder Dr. Shaula Alexander Yemini explains to Refinery29. “Being an entrepreneur, when I see a void in the marketplace, I have to do something about it. And that’s how Bloomers was born.” All of the brand’s high-waisted undies are constructed with four-way stretch lace and offered in sizes XS to XXL, in six jewel-inspired colors and three new sweets-inspired colors. The comfortable full-coverage bottoms veer into the “sexy” category, thanks to the clingy, transparent fabrication and a scalloped hem that lends a boudoir-ish elegance to the sleepy silhouette. Each pair of Bloomers underwear is $38 and comes with a reusable mesh laundry bag for easy machine washing.
These are worth every penny, I want them in every color. Happy divorce present to me!
BLOOMERS REVIEWER
“During the pandemic, shoppers started prioritizing comfort over style, and granny panties fit the new WFH lifestyle,” says Bloomers’ co-founder Noa Arias — so a year into a global quarantine, Arias launched the brand alongside her mother, a former tech entrepreneur. She believes the designs by Bloomers — high-waist, fullback lace undies that are guaranteed to be wedgie-free — are poised for popularity, even if couch-bound comfort-wear is now more of a weekend thing. “Now that we’re heading back to normal, we don’t want to give up being comfortable, [but] we’re eager to be fashionable once again,” Arias explains. “Bloomers’ briefs are the best of both worlds: They have all the comfort and coverage of a granny panty, but they’re made from a soft, stylish lace with a scalloped edge.”
According to the retail intelligence platform Edited, lingerie is expected to hit $325.36 billion by 2025, and “granny panties” à la Bridget Jones (who would more likely use the British term “big knickers”) are in. In the same way that comfort came first for all other garments during lockdown, bottoms with both high waists and full coverage are outselling hipster styles. Bloomers adopts this comfort-centric approach for briefs and boyshorts in a way that’s still sexy — evidenced by a flood of online reviews from customers who prize the brand’s signature mix of comfort and curb appeal. “These are worth every penny, I want them in every color,” wrote a reviewer named Charlotte. “Actually, maybe I’ll get every color. Happy divorce present to me!” Ashima G. wrote that “[t]hese undies are sexy with the benefit of full coverage,” and Jen commented that they made them feel “instantly cute and comfy. So flattering (with and without clothes) and great quality.”
These may not be your grandma’s granny panties, but according to reviewers, they certainly feel like it. So if you have any qualms, know that there’s underwear out there that offers a cute, comfortable compromise.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Naturally, we’ve all looked somewhere for more affordable versions that can be equally as versatile, fashionable, and, yes, celeb-approved. So much so that the hashtag #loafers on TikTok has grown to over 240 million views. This is why Reformation’s Agathea loafers — worn by the likes of Gigi Hadid, Katie Holmes, and Malia Obama — are constantly selling out, with the search term “Reformation loafers” gathering over 1 billion views on TikTok.
So, when the brand restocked the style in new colorways earlier this month, the Refinery29 editors knew it was time to put them to the test. Distinguished by their chunky lug sole and narrow silhouette — available in 8 colorways for less than $300 — it’s no wonder the classic style is one of the most popular out there. But when it comes to styling and grinding in the New York City streets, can the Agathea loafers measure up to their hype?
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
“What instantly sets this loafer apart from others I previously tried on is the strip of padding in the back. While I typically undergo a painful few days and shed blood to break in brand new loafers, I didn’t get a single blister while wearing these shoes all day, and I think the padding had a lot to do with that (I also wore socks). I also loved that the style had a platform lug sole which adds height unlike traditional pairs. This year, I am getting into flared denim for the way it can bring attention to the footwear you are wearing. To complement the retro-inspired colorway of the loafer, I topped it off with a collegiate blazer in a plaid pattern that has similar brown undertones. It’s a solid loafer which could be styled a myriad of ways if a more traditional loafer look is what you’re after.”
Cortni Spearman, Director of Social Media
“These loafers are super trendy, extremely comfortable (which I was surprised about), and the metallic color is just so unique and instantly elevates an outfit. It also goes with just about anything. I like that there’s a slight platform for a bit of height and dimension, and the chunkiness makes this loafer so easy to walk in. My pair was slightly big, and even with a sock they slipped a bit from time to time. I paired these loafers with faux leather pants and a white button down that I layered with a faux leather bustier top. The white of the button down paired with the black from the sole of the shoe and pants pulled this look together, while the metallic pop of the shoe really brought it home.”
Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
“I’m fairly new to loafers (I got my first pair a few months ago) and these made me excited to continue wearing this classic style for years to come. I love that they look super elegant, yet modern, thanks to the chunky sole. I’ll say that, while I’m now a loafers fan, it does take a bit for the shoes to break in (I got some blisters even wearing band-aids and socks). In terms of styling, I decided to pull inspiration from the loafers’ two-tone hue, pairing them with pinstripe wide-leg pants that made me look like an ‘80s banker, and a simple black blazer. I totally get why celebs and fashion fans alike are all over these loafers: they’re affordable, easy to style, and made to last season after season, no matter the trends.”
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While a new year doesn’t necessarily need to mean a new you, it could mean it’s time for a new handbag. This essential piece of your next arm party may be available for purchase in all shapes and sizes, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. A handbag can be heavy. It can make or break an outfit. It can steal the sartorial spotlight… and not always for the right reasons. So if you’re wondering which purse is best for carrying (on) in the new year, we’re here to keep you on course with the biggest trends of 2023.
From the dystopian styles that have infiltrated runways to the Y2K comeback that has yet to cool down, there’s plenty of fashion fodder to sift through for accessories inspo these days. If you belong to the “pandemic killed the micro purse” camp, we’re happy to report that a scattering of more practical picks is in for the season ahead, along with some other more fanciful trends worth trying out.
Below, we’ve broken down the top seven handbag styles that are bound to be big in 2023 (though not always in the literal sense of the word).
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Handbag Trend 2023: Utilitarian Style
Considering our prediction that “futuristic utility” will be a major style aesthetic this year, we’re expecting to see bags that follow suit, too. With the rise in popularity of cargo pants and compartment-rich coats comes a variety of practical purses to match. Think: lots of room, zippers, and pockets that are fashioned out of fabrics fit to take on all the elements.
Handbag Trend 2023: Forever Pieces
The combined influence of classic-core (capsule wardrobes, closet staples, etc.) and conscious shopping have many people gravitating toward quality over quantity. And it’s certainly no coincidence that brands have been dipping back into their archives to revive the iconic pieces of the past that have stood the test of time — from Prada’s ’90s-inspired Cleo bag to Gucci’s Jackie purse from 1961. Whether you’re interested in an investment purchase to last a lifetime or seeking out a retro-leaning silhouette, a sleek black shoulder bag is one of the smartest trends to grab onto this season.
Handbag Trend 2023: Top Handles
Ever the lady bag, these particular purses are not for slinging over shoulders or dangling off the elbow. Made to be handled with care, the look-at-me pieces command the constant attention of your fingertips… unless, of course, they come with a longer shoulder strap for days when you’re in a crossbody kind of mood.
Handbag Trend 2023: Styles That Shine
The sartorial energy we are carrying into 2023 is “shine on.” Ever since fashion week made its glittering return to in-person programming, there’s been an undeniably festive feeling across many of its runways. So when it comes to our closets, we’re compelled to keep the optimism party going with all that sparkles: metallic mesh, rhinestones, sequins, and diamanté details galore.
Handbag Trend 2023: Woven Fabrics
If you’ve got a Spidey sense for all things style, you’ll know that woven fabrics make for a web of chic options this season. Shiny leathers, smooth suedes, vegan alternatives, and puffer fabrics are among the range of materials that have been intertwined for your wearing pleasure. Look at it as Bottega Veneta aesthetic fit for any budget.
Handbag Trend 2023: Scoop Tops
The way toward finding your personal style this year might not necessarily come in the form of a straight line, and this extends to handbags. Architectural shapes may be adding structure to the chaos of our closets this season, but some of the edgier iterations of this trend feature a slight curve or dip at their enclosures to add a touch of whimsy to your look.
Handbag Trend 2023: Personality Purses
We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: the best trends to try out are the ones uniquely suited to you and your mood. And with the style world fully leaning into kooky collabs and OTT outfits right now, there’s endless opportunity to find the perfect “thing” purse for your personality. Love love? Heart-shaped bags à la Balenciaga and Kate Spade have got you covered. New York or nowhere? There’s a bag for that, too.
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