Welcome To The Era Of The Coach Tabby Bag — A Fashion Writer’s Review Of The Viral It-Bag

It’s not just ’90s style that’s made a triumphant resurgence this year — countless fashion brands are revamping their beloved styles from years past with a modern twist. One brand whose nostalgic style is turning heads right now is none other than classic clothing and accessories line Coach, with the Coach Tabby Collection becoming a recent viral sensation on TikTok. If you haven’t already witnessed these adorable silhouettes surfacing your FYP, it’s time to hop on the bandwagon. On TikTok, #coachtabby has 23.2 million views, with the viral #pillowtabby at a growing 15.9 million views. Fashion enthusiasts are obsessed with the unveiling of the brand’s nostalgic designs in new creative styles and playful shades — and, following suit, I’m here to give you my unbiased Coach Tabby Bag review.

While I’ll be solely focusing on the best-selling Pillow Tabby, I’ve highlighted other notable handbags from the collection for you to shop, as well. The shoulder bag comes in two sizes: the smaller Pillow Tabby 18, which costs $395, and the larger Pillow Tabby 26, priced at $550. I’m a go big or go home type of shopper, so I opted to review the larger size. If you’re a fan of marshmallowy padded puffer jackets, the Pillow Tabby has a similar feel to it. Coach put their magical spin on the classic style by adding cheerful pastel colors that evoke Y2K vibes. And while many fashion followers have been eagerly watching the return of 2000s-inspired shoulder bags and itty bitty handbags, we’ve now officially entered the Coach Tabby Bag era.

Coach Pillow Tabby Bag 26, $550

While many of the colors offered in the Tabby Bag line may give early-2000s vibes, the structure of the Tabby Bags is an unmistakable nod to Coach’s iconic 1970s aesthetic. The line’s various styles, which range from messenger bags to crossbody wristlets, are largely crafted from polished Nappa leather, with select items made of canvas and a few translucent jelly purses launching soon; each design has Coach’s signature hardware. In addition to neutral hues, the stylish shoulder bags are available in a rainbow of candy-colored shades, like powder pink, sunny yellow, and violet. And the collection of pastel-hued handbags couldn’t have arrived at a better time, now that we’re transitioning into spring and searching for more brightly-colored accessories to suit the season. 

First Impressions

After pulling open the chocolate brown ribbon and opening the black box contained within, I was greeted with a glossy white dust bag. Cradled inside was the ivory Coach Pillow Tabby 18 bag. My first impression delight over the plushy style; I also took notice that the C logo was wrapped in leather instead of the brand’s signature brass. The updated hardware style makes the Coach Pillow Tabby stand out from other Coach handbags, and the leather closure seamlessly blends in with the rest of the purse.

Styling The Bag: Formal Vs. Casual

The Pillow Tabby gives off two different vibes, depending on how you style it. When I wore a tweed blazer, it looked chic and elevated. Meanwhile, with a casual color block cardigan, the ivory shade and padded aesthetic brought in a bit of softness.

The brand wasn’t also kidding when they called it the Pillow bag. The ultra-soft shoulder bag feels like a cloud and is super lightweight to carry. The short strap comfortably rests on my shoulder and feels like a pillow when my arm rests against the cushy exterior.

What Fits Inside The Bag?

The plushness definitely engulfs the entire bag, but you can still fit the necessities. I used my fiancé’s wallet, work phone, apartment keys, and my compact to show that bigger items could fit. One thing worth noting is that the pocket in between the bag’s two sides only has room to hold thin items, like credit cards or maybe a pocket mirror. However, since the bag is so soft, there’s room if you really want to pack in more things with a little push — even in the back compartment, which I thought had less room than it actually does.

When you first open the bag, there’s a longer strap inside, which you can attach to the bag, enabling you to wear it as a crossbody as well as a shoulder bag. Also, as an avowed organizer, I appreciated the two compartments inside the bag and the thin zippered pocket separating the them. Realistically, I don’t know if I would use the pocket in between, but it’s nice to have some sort of divider. I also carry only my necessities when I go out, and this bag is the perfect size for those with similarly minimalist packing styles. Overall, it’s an adorable-looking bag to have in your collection and I can see why the TikTok queens and kings are obsessed with it. The only issue I had with it? After trying the cream hue, now I want one in every shade.

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.

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Zara’s New Studio Collection Features The Season’s Top Trends

Zara is back at it again. On Thursday, the Spanish retailer released its latest Studio line — the brand’s higher-end, limited-edition lineup — full of 2023’s biggest fashion trends. 

The spring 2023 Studio collection — with campaign images shot by Steven Meisel — is full of maxi dresses, breezy knits, blazers, and tailored waistcoats in a muted color palette of cream, pink, black, and light green that will get you excited for the warmer temperatures ahead. There are also many of the year’s top styles, including balletcore-inspired details and maxi skirts, which have become one of the year’s most sought-after items. The collection additionally features an assortment of bags and shoes, from wooden platforms to studded shoulder bags, as well as scarves and stone jewelry. 

With prices starting at $90, here are some of our favorite picks from Zara’s lineup. 

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.

Zara FLOWY LINEN BLEND TRENCH COAT LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

Zara LIMITED EDITION CONTRASTING DRESS, $, available at Zara

Zara CROPPED JACKET LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

Zara HIGH HEEL LEATHER SANDALS LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

Zara HEELED LEATHER ANKLE BOOTS LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

Zara LEATHER SHOULDER BAG LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

Zara LIMITED EDITION SLIP DRESS, $, available at Zara

Zara DOUBLE NECKLACE LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

Zara MINI LEATHER SHOULDER BAG LIMITED EDITION, $, available at Zara

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What Fashion Loses As Law Roach Retires

Earlier this week, Law Roach — one of Hollywood’s most powerful stylists —  shocked the fashion industry by announcing his retirement from the celebrity styling world. In a lengthy Instagram post shared on Tuesday, he thanked supporters of his career and claimed his “cup is empty…” He added, “If this business was just about the clothes I would do it for the rest of my life but unfortunately it’s not! The politics, the lies and [the] false narratives finally got me! You win … I’m out.” A mere 36 hours after his announcement, Roach told Vogue: “I’m not saying I’m retiring from fashion. I love fashion. I love the business and I love being creative. What I’m retiring from is the celebrity styling part of it: The being in service and at [the] service of other people. That’s what I’m retiring from, yeah.”

The news has triggered not only mass speculation as to what pushed the famous fashion personality to make such a decision (including the viral video of Law seemingly refusing to be sat anywhere but the front row at a Louis Vuitton show), but also a vital public discourse on the legacy he would leave behind if the move away from styling was permanent. 

You can’t mention Law Roach’s work without also thinking of his most spectacular creation: Zendaya. While working at Deliciously Vintage, the boutique store he owned 12 years ago, a customer told him that a then 14-year-old Zendaya needed something to wear to Justin Bieber’s ‘Never Say Never’ premiere. He obliged, and the pair have become a match for the history books. The fashion powerhouse shuttered his store and promptly moved to LA to be her stylist full-time. And wherever Zendaya is, Law Roach is never too far behind.

Most of Gen Z grew up with Zendaya on their screens, trailing her life and career from her Disney Channel days as she played Rocky Blue in the hit dance show Shake It Up, and then again as a spy in ‘KC Undercover.’ We witnessed her contract come to an end and wondered what would become of her; would the actress survive the famed ‘Disney curse, or would she be left without opportunity despite her talents? It seemed that only time would tell. So, we waited. And what ensued can only be described as one of the most successful career transitions a “child star” has ever seen — and, at first, her visibility had nothing to do with her acting: it was her fashion. 

In an episode of Issa Rae’s ‘A Sip’ interview series back in 2021, the multi-hyphenate opened up about what it had been like trying to break out of the Disney box she’d been placed in and what it took to get people to take her seriously. “What helped me create an avenue and lane of my own outside of Disney Channel was fashion,” Zendaya states clearly. “Me and Law [Roach] would show up at stuff I had no business being at just so I could get the look.” 

It’s clear that Law Roach —  the “Image Architect,” designer, model and one of the most influential stylists in the industry —  is to thank for all of this innovation and elevation.

And Zendaya, through Roach’s influence and magic touch, has continued to elevate in the style stakes. The star has become an expected name on the Best Dressed lists after every carpet; from the stunning jade green Vera Wang gown at the 2019 Emmys to her iconic  Joan of Arc tribute at Versace at the 2018 MET Gala, time and again the actress has left audiences with no choice but to take note. Zendaya rightly acknowledged the stylist at the CFDA fashion awards in 2021 upon winning the Fashion Icon Award (making her the youngest-ever recipient at just 25). With each press run, we are introduced to the new version of Zendaya that Law Roach has created, a new focused character to admire. 

We know we have never seen a touch quite like Law’s and we fear that we never will. 

Beyond his long-serving creative partnership with Zendaya, Roach’s roster has expanded dramatically over the past few years, with the likes of Anya Taylor-Joy, Kerry Washington, Priyanka Chopra-Jones, Celine Dion, and Ariana Grande all counting themselves among his “fashion girls.” He has done everything from star as a judge on America’s Next Top Model and Legendary to assisting Zendaya in designing her Fall 2019 Zendaya x Tommy Hilfiger collaboration. He has graced the runway as a model in his own right, walking most recently at the Hugo Boss Fall/Winter 2023 show, and despite announcing his retirement from styling, the talent and success of Law Roach remain absolutely undeniable. 

For most creatives, success dwindles and relevancy dies. Yet Law Roach has never gotten that memo. Law is who those on the cusp of stardom go to when needed to be taken seriously. A lot of outlets snidely mention that his “Image Architect” moniker is “self-proclaimed,” but why shouldn’t it be? This is the man who took Celine Dion, who had been stuck in a style rut, and relaunched her cultural relevancy.  He did it with just a Vetements Titanic sweatshirt. He did the same with Tiffany Haddish (who he famously no longer works with), turning the comedian into a red-carpet staple in dresses matching the cultural clout she had been accumulating. Ariana Grande’s comeback with Thank U, Next was styled by him, and he was also responsible for the iconic grey Giambattista Valli gown that the singer wore for the 2020 Grammy. 

Even better is the relationships that he has fostered with designers, his archival pull power further cementing him as one of the industry titans. He has admitted that “vintage has always been (his) addiction” and we say thank God for that.  When Bella Hadid needed a showstopper for a Gala she was attending, she got in contact with Law, pulling a 63-year-old Dior dress designed by none other than Yves Saint Laurent himself. Paired with long dramatic gloves and elegant Chopard jewellery, the look remains one of the best from the supermodel’s catalogue.

This is what Law Roach does. He creates story moments for his clients, bringing their image back to life with flair and panache. It’s why so much of the culture was in an uproar when his announcement was made; we know we have never seen a touch quite like Law’s and we fear that we never will. 

Roach refusing to be sat anywhere but the front row at the recent Louis Vuitton fashion show isn’t ego; it’s his right as the Law Roach.

Despite his accolades, Roach says he has had to battle with the racism that is entrenched in the fashion industry, working harder than his white peers, to even get the recognition he is getting now.

 In 2020, he opened up about what it was like to have to deal with underlying racism marking his time as a stylist:  “No, I have never had anyone call me [the N-word] or slam the door in my face, but I have walked into rooms where the conversation changed and the energy changed, and I will deal with that my whole life. I’ve also had situations where I was introduced as the assistant.”

Law Roach has fought for his rightful place in the industry one stunning red carpet look at a time. Roach refusing to be sat anywhere but the front row at the recent Louis Vuitton fashion show isn’t ego; it’s his right as the Law Roach.

Now, Roach has decided not to stand for disrespect, or the systemic disadvantages in the industry, and instead put his own interests first. As he told Vogue: “… I’ve done everything I wanted to do in this career. I’ve received all the awards, the accolades, I’ve changed people’s lives…And I just feel like, I’ve had enough, you know? So that Instagram post wasn’t a PR stunt. It was really me giving myself the grace to say: It’s okay. You can do something else.”

But it’s hard not to feel like this is a loss for the fashion world.

One of my very first fashion memories is of seeing Zendaya in a silk, off-the-shoulder gown with waist-skimming dreadlocks cascading down her back at the 2015 Oscars. I didn’t have the vocabulary to eloquently express what that moment meant to me, only understanding that I wanted to know who was responsible. That’s how I found out who Law Roach was. He changed my perception of who got to be glamorous,  who got to look chic or be experimental. His work with Black talent in particular has shifted the way that Black bodies have been perceived in the mainstream. It’s been a long-held fantasy of mine to imagine being invited to a red carpet simply to have him dress me because I know like the Black women before me, I would have been safe in his vision.

Law Roach isn’t just responsible for revolutionising the fashion industry; he is the fashion industry. And whatever he chooses to do next, it has been a pleasure to watch his work illuminate our culture.

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14 Spring Investment Pieces That Have The R29-Editor Stamp Of Approval

There’s nothing wrong with loving a cheap thrill — we certainly do. But there is something to be said about saving up for that extra-special luxury item and treating yourself. After all, you deserve it.

With spring just around the corner, we polled the savviest shoppers we know — our co-workers — and posed one simple question to them: What investment item are you making the hero of your spring wardrobe? As always, we got responses for every style aesthetic: platform boots in sumptuous suede, gauzy mohair cardigans, diamond-accented flower studs, and a variety of It bags to punctuate every 'fit pic. Shop all 14 of our choice fashion finds in the slides to come.

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.

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Larroudé Dolly Boot In Black Suede

"I am admittedly late to join the cult of Larroudé, the It girl label founded by former Teen Vogue and Barneys fashion director Marina Larroudé, but ever since I got these platform booties, my go-to transitional silhouette in between winter and spring, I am the brand’s biggest fan. Don’t be fooled by the sky-high heel that looks like it could inspire a fear of heights — these are the most comfortable boots that I currently own, which would explain why I’ve been wearing them nonstop." —Irina Grechko, Fashion Director

Larroudé Dolly Boot In Black Suede, $, available at Larroudé

Sézane Gaspard Cardigan

“When I think of transitional spring dressing, I think layering, and I’ve been eyeing both of these versatile pieces for a long time. The Sézane Gaspard Cardigan can actually be worn with the buttons forward or backward. It’s relaxed without being oversized, and I can see myself wearing this over a tank, tee, or on its own as a top. I also love that the knit is slightly ribbed, which would make for a great texture to pair against a leather jacket like this amazing Sandro option I’ve been eyeing. I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect boxy, dark brown leather jacket (that isn’t a moto style!) for a longgg time and this one is a stunner.” —Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Strategist

Sézane Gaspard Cardigan, $, available at Sézane

Sandro Jude Lambskin Leather Jacket, $, available at Nordstrom

Sostter Rose Gold Metallic Leather Pocket Backpack

"Spring brings with it many things: rain, flowers, tax season, and, of course, weather that makes it near impossible to choose one outfit that works for the whole day (I see you, 30-degree mornings and 70-degree afternoons). And while shoulder bags have their place, when I have to pack multiple outfits for a single day — and in the interest of being able to stand up straight 30 years from now — I’ve been on the hunt for a stylish backpack for some time now. This one from Sostter is big enough to fit plenty of everyday essentials and stylish enough that I don’t feel like it’s screaming 'full of Trapper Keepers' to people who might see me wearing it." —Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director

Sostter Pewter Soft Metallic Leather Pocket Backpack, $, available at Wolf & Badger

Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 26

"I've spotted Coach's Pillow Tabby bag on the street more times than I can count, and I think it's finally time I got one to call my own. The size is perfect — not too big, not too small — and I can't picture a spring outfit that wouldn't be leveled up with this purse on my arm. Plus, the chic pale beige colorway feels so right for the warmer months." —Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer

Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 26, $, available at Coach

Jennifer Meyer Mini Daisy Diamond Center Earrings

"I have a total of 11 piercings across both my ears and have somewhat of an obsession with collecting as many tiny studs as possible. I own several pieces from Jennifer Meyer and count her as one of my favorite jewelry designers — her signature elevated, dainty aesthetic never fails. These whimsical yet utterly chic mini daisies (which also happen to be my favorite flower) are so perfect for the spring equinox, and I think I'm finally out of excuses for not splurging on them." —Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer

Jennifer Meyer Mini Daisy Diamond Center Earrin, $, available at Shopbop

The Jacket Maker Westa A-2 Black Leather Bomber Jacket

"A genuine leather bomber has been on my wish list for ages, but I’ve never quite found “the one”. As a shortie, most vintage options tend to overwhelm my frame, so instead of nailing that oversized, model-off-duty vibe, I end up looking more like a kid playing dress up. Meanwhile, brand-new leather jackets can be quite pricey — costing usually $500 and up.

"I was elated when I discovered The Jacket Maker, a direct-to-consumer brand selling genuine leather clothing and accessories at reasonable price points. This sheepskin bomber comes with a beautiful vintage-style finish, and it reminds me of all the oversized jackets I’ve had to pass over due to the fit, but in a more snug and modern cut. What’s even better is the fact that for an additional $50, the brand can create this jacket made-to-measure — all you need to do is submit your height and various measurements over email, and you receive a piece cut to fit your exact build. This is a great option for my fellow petite shoppers with narrower shoulders and shorter arms. There is also free worldwide shipping to sweeten the deal. This is a shoo-in for me in terms of spring fashion investments." —Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer

The Jacket Maker Westa A-2 Leather Bomber Jacket, $, available at The Jacket Maker

Cozy Earth Modern Modal Polo Dress

"As soon as the weather starts getting even a tiny bit more pleasant, I’m ready to slip into a breezy cotton dress. Cozy Earth is a brand that has been winning our hearts with its ultra-soft line of sleepwear and bedding, and its modal clothing collection is also really hitting it out of the park for me. This polo dress is the type of polished yet utterly comfortable outfit that you can just slip into if you just can’t be bothered with thinking about what to wear. The lightweight and buttery soft modal fabric feels just as comfy as cuddling up in a pair of PJs, and the two side pockets are another thoughtful feature I love. I personally find the buttonless, V-neck polo collar helps elongate my neck, and give the dress just the right level of put-togetherness to pass as an office outfit." —Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer

Cozy Earth Modern Modal Polo Dress, $, available at Cozy Earth

Miu Miu Spirit Small Zip Leather Shoulder Bag

"Miu Miu and I have a complicated history. Whenever I decide to commit to a piece of clothing, shoe, or handbag from the brand, I'm met with the glaring SOLD OUT when I try to add it to cart. The same goes for this quilted shoulder bag. Sadly, the alabaster pink and aqua-green shade I originally wanted are out of stock. My friend suggested the cornflower blue shade, and I can say it's slowly growing on me, so who knows!" —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer

Miu Miu Spirit Small Zip Leather Shoulder Bag, $, available at Bergdorf Goodman

Maje Melance Geometric Cardigan

"Every season I peruse the new arrivals from Maje and dream of having the whole Parisian-chic collection in my wardrobe. I have a sweet spot for cardigans with prominent buttons, and this one stuck out to me for spring. Although the contrasting striped trim is my style, the print is definitely different from what I usually gravitate toward. However, something about the vibrant cobalt hue and eye-catching geometric print is drawing me in and is patiently sitting in my shopping cart for the final click." —Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer

Maje Melance Geometric Cardigan, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

Dolce Vita Emol Heels in Mushroom Suede

"I have too many shoes to know what to do with, yet I’m always stuck with not having the perfect pair, especially during the spring when I don’t know if I should wear a bootie, sneaker, mule, or sandal. I realized the perfect day-to-night solution may then be a wedge or chunky clog heel. In my recent searches for those, I came across these Dolce Vita chunky platform heels and fell in love. I have a narrower foot and was also worried that this style would be too clunky, but a review on Dolce Vita’s website has sold me on them. Jamie H. wrote, “The suede is sturdy and the heel is not heavy. I have a narrow foot, and the width was not overwhelming.” Perfect! I think I’m gonna go with the Mushroom Suede since the color is classic and can match many spring outfits (but I also love the Natural Raffia option!)." —Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer

Dolce Vita Emol Heels in Mushroom Suede, $, available at Dolce Vita

Scarosso Leandra Blu Scamosciata Loafers

"A good loafer should never be underestimated, especially when it's hand-crafted by skilled Italian artisans. These masterpieces are perfect for spring office days and brunches alike with the low-key yet chic blue suede and statement tassels. " —Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator

Scarosso Leandra Blu Scamosciata Loafers, $, available at Scarosso

Fiorucci Angels Hoodie Black

"Spring means in-betweener weather, and my go-to in-betweener outfit is a sweatshirt with shorts, jeans, and maybe even a skirt if I’m feeling fine, fresh, and feminine. It’s pricey, but I feel like people underestimate the power of an expensive sweatshirt. I have a vast collection of hoodies, and I can’t wait to put this in my closet." —Alexandra Polk, Affiliate Lifestyle Writer

Fiorucci Angels Hoodie Black, $, available at Fiorucci

Sézane Colette Marinière

"I hate wearing T-shirts if I’m not going to the gym. My winter uniform is sweatshirts; my summer uniform is sundresses. This leaves me with little to wear in the in-between months, which, in Tennessee, can start in February and last till mid-May, when a switch flips and it's 100 degrees 'til mid-September. My only solution for in-between outfits is a Breton shirt, which tend to be just a little heavier than a tee but still have all the ease of a casual top. Some older tops from Uniqlo were a bit worse for the wear, so I went on an absolute tear trying every Breton-style top I could get my hands on. I finally settled on these, from an actual French store. Très chic. I don’t know if a $100 top falls in the “investment” category, but it does become an investment when you buy several of them…” —Marshall Bright, Affiliate Editor

Sézane Colette Marinière, $, available at Sézane

Mansur Gavriel Mini M Frame Bag

Warmer weather means I finally agree to nighttime plans and find myself in need of a versatile bag that can easily go from work to cocktails. This mini bag by Mansur Gavriel is a great transitional piece because it’s both a crossbody bag and a clutch — just remove the straps and you’re good to go — which makes it a great investment piece." —Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer

Mansur Gavriel Mini M Frame Bag, $, available at Mansur Gavriel

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