7 Handbag Trends To Tote Around In 2023

While the incoming fall season doesn’t necessarily need to mean a whole new wardrobe, it could mean it’s time for a new handbag. This essential piece for 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 throughout the year (though not always in the literal sense of the word).

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Handbag Trend 2023: Utilitarian Style

“Futuristic utility” is a major style aesthetic this year, and bags are following 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 Alaïa — spotted all over street style — and Kate Spade have got you covered. New York or nowhere? There’s a bag for that, too.

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7 Engagement Ring Trends That Are Defining 2023, According to Experts

Unlike popular runway styles, engagement ring trends tend to move on a slower, subtler track (there’s not a wedding ring equivalent of a butterfly top or leather harness, after all).  Even so, options are still diverse and run the gamut, ranging from traditional designs like solitaire settings all the way to modern interpretations like black diamond ring rings or bezel-set bands. This year, experts are pointing to a similarly varied array of ring trends that will be seen everywhere, with options that both die-hard minimalists and those with bolder tastes can envision slipping on their fingers.

If you happen to be in the market for an engagement ring and find yourself overwhelmed by choosing one style to wear for the rest of your life — don’t. “Often people put a lot of pressure on an engagement ring, thinking they have to love it forever, so they end up choosing something traditional,” Meadowlark co-founder Claire Hammon says. “But things change, and you can remodel your ring in the future as your style evolves.”

When looking for an engagement ring that resonates with your personal style, designer Ashley Zhang says to begin with a digital mood board of sorts. “Save screenshots of any and all styles of rings you like. After a few weeks you might be surprised to find that a few of them have similar looks or elements,” she says. Once you have a general sense of the vibe you’re going for, according to GIA expert Nellie Barnett, you should focus on the center stone, asking questions like: “Are you a dazzling diamond type of person or attracted to a pop of color using emerald, morganite, or a different kind of gemstone?” From there, she adds, look for a gemstone with a report. 

All of this to say, choosing an engagement ring that’s right for you isn’t a perfect science. It’s a mix of gut instinct and what’s available in the current market. If you’re not sure where to start, ahead, seven trends that have taken over 2023. 

Rings With Colored Stones

Non-diamond center stones have steadily climbed in popularity over the last few years and experts point to this trend as one that will only continue to grow. “Colored stones will be going strong for a long time,” Hammon predicts. Zhang notes that her team has also been receiving more requests for colored stones than ever before. “These can either be as the center and main stone or as accents,” she says. “Using colored gemstones is a great way to have a unique look… These rings still feel bridal and special but also bold and different.” 

Yellow Gold Bands

While Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw had a bone to pick with her yellow gold engagement ring band, the trend has become a preferred option in recent years. “Yellow gold is our most requested metal,” Zhang says. “I think this choice in settings will stay strong. The contrast of the yellow with white diamonds really makes them pop.” If you’re going especially unique, consider mixing silver and gold metals when choosing a wedding band to complement your stone. 

Chunky Bands

Though dainty, delicate rings have been in favor for seemingly forever, the pendulum is beginning to swing in the opposite direction. “Bold pieces will grow in popularity,” Marrow Fine founder and creative director, Jillian Sassone, says. “Metal-heavy chunky settings have been requested the most in 2022, and I don’t see that slowing down. If anything, our brides and grooms are doubling down on that by adding cigar bands and other statement-making wedding bands to their bridal sets.”

Vintage-Inspired Rings

A “vintage-inspired” engagement ring can mean a lot of things from types of settings (e.g. Art Deco) to cuts (Old European), but a general sense of old-meets-new is permeating current trends. “I’ve seen an increase in demand for reimagining heirloom stones into new designs that feel more aligned with the bride’s or groom’s style,” Sassone notes. Zhang has also seen an uptick in old gemstones. “Old-mine cut diamonds and antique cushions are the most desired request we get,” she says. “These stones are rare and extremely difficult to find. Mined and cut over 100 years ago, they have such a unique sparkle.” 

Non-Traditional Rings

You might think of engagement ring bands as falling into three main categories: gold, rose gold, and silver. But this year, that might change. “Our popular Til Death band is ideal for our brides and grooms who want to make a big statement about their love,” Sassone says about the black enamel band emblazoned with the words “til death.” “It feels like a Victorian throwback while the old English type brings an edge that is resonating with couples wanting a bold non-traditional wedding band.” Other materials such as tungsten carbide and teakwood also lend unexpected elements to otherwise-traditional settings. 

Step-Cut Diamond Rings

For brides with pared-back style, Sassone says to watch out for step-cut diamonds — a square or rectangle stone with parallel facets on all four sides, resembling steps — as a trend in 2023. “I love a step-cut diamond for a minimalist,” she says. “The clean architectural lines are perfect for someone with style but who doesn’t want a lot of flash.” 

Pear and Oval Rings

While celebrity engagements don’t always move the needle for trends, Sassone says Sydney Sweeney’s mega-round brilliant was noteworthy. In addition to classic round shapes, both oval- and pear-shaped rings will continue to trend next year. “Hailey Bieber’s oval engagement ring is still a piece that clients reference,” she says. “Pear and oval shapes elongate the finger and look spectacular on any hand.”

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Charles & Keith’s Newest Collab Is For The All-Black-Everything Girlies

If black happens to be your favorite color or you’re looking to add some fresh monochromatic pieces to your transitional weather outfits, Charles & Keith’s latest drop will turn you into the heart eyes emoji — literally. The capsule collection, named Heart Is Every Wear, is a collaboration between the Singaporean accessories brand and Henn Kim, a renowned illustrator hailing from South Korea. All four pieces, ranging from $23 to $153, come in jet-black faux leather and feature Kim’s signature heart charms.

Henn Kim‘s black-and-white artworks might look familiar if you’ve picked up a Sally Rooney book in the last couple of years (aka, all of us): The artist was behind the cover art of Rooney’s celebrated novels Normal People and Conversations With Friends. Kim has since developed a sizable following on Instagram for her highly relatable artistic depictions of modern life moments, from loneliness to self-love. That soulful and whimsical vibe is evident in this collaboration, yet the designs remain understated and highly wearable — especially when compared to other splashy, logo-heavy brand collabs.

Ahead, we’ll walk you through the all-black lineup, which is filled with the goth-girl-lite essentials we need to ease into the gloomier days of fall and winter.

Henn Kim x Charles & Keith Illustrated Heart Charm Ankle Boots, $153

If you’re deciding between a chunky loafer and a sturdy combat boot, a magical combination of the two has arrived. These ankle boots have that balletcore-inspired look that everyone on TikTok is obsessed with but with a darker, more utilitarian edge. We love the Mary-Jane straps that sit across the cutouts, which are perfect for a pair of lace or patterned mid-calf socks to peek through. These boots will look amazing with a voluminous midi skirt to further amp up the goth aesthetic.

What really elevates these shoes from basic black boot territory are the provoking details. The metal heart-shaped motifs — we’re talking about the anatomical version of the organ — represent embracing one’s authentic emotions, according to Kim. It’s a truly unique way to interpret “wearing your heart on your sleeve.” We also love the handwritten signatures across the metal plating on the chunky outsoles.

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Charles & Keith x Henn Kim Illustrated Heart Charm Ruched Hobo Bag, $103

Slouchy, hobo-style bags are making a comeback, and this rendition strikes the perfect balance between practical and trendy. The ruched drawstring closure and thick shoulder strap are great for toting things around with ease, and the bag stands out with its constellation of charms, accentuating the closure and straps.

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Charles & Keith x Henn Kim Illustrated Heart Cosmo Blanket, $96

Your favorite fluffy winter blanket has arrived: This fabric throw features Kim’s planet and galactic artwork, and it comes with a stylish roll strap and heart-shaped charm. Each purchase from the collection also includes exclusive stickers illustrated by Kim.

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Charles & Keith x Henn Kim Illustrated Heart Scrunchie, $23

We love a chunky scrunchie, especially when it’s cool enough to be worn as a bracelet.

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Shop the Heart Is Every Wear collection

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Build Your Fall Capsule Wardrobe With La Saison Sportive’s Luxurious Knits

If you’re looking for basics that don’t feel so, well, basic, allow us to add La Saison Sportive to your roster of sporty, quiet luxury brands. The minimalist boutique embodies slow fashion, focusing on crafting timeless and elegant knitwear. However, La Saison Sportive knits aren’t simply lush sweaters; the brand also produces sustainable merino wool silhouettes that are easy to take care of. These are luxe items designed to be worn every day, not saved for special occasions then requiring a special trip to the dry cleaner’s to fix an accidental spill. The cozy knits are machine washable and constructed from natural yarns to be the perfect pieces for your fall capsule wardrobe.

The yarn La Saison uses are is sourced from farms in Australia, spun in Italy, and 3D-knitted in Brooklyn — they’ve been all over the world and are now destined for your closet. And while they are an investment, they are an investment that lasts and lasts. Browse through the brand’s excellent basics, polos, sweaters, and pants ahead. There is an array of glorious fall-esque colors to choose from like chestnut, mulberry, ruby red, midnight blue, and more, to pair with your favorite blue jeans or maxi skirt. Your fall wardrobe doesn’t know what’s coming.

La Saison Sportive Basics

Upgrade your worn-out basics for elevated styles with La Saison Sportive bestsellers like the Eva Tank. There are evergreen tanks in a wide range of hues along with beanies and scarves to prep for the cooler months ahead. Stay cozy like you never left your bed and blanket and snuggle up with new accessories this fall.

La Saison Sportive Polos

Polo shirts are no longer only worn as part of a stiff equestrian uniform. Fashion enthusiasts are now styling the posh top with their everyday attire — tennis skirts, jeans, work pants; you got it. The collared silhouette has become a staple piece with the popularity of tenniscore, and everyone from celebs to trendsetters are on the hunt for timeless polo shirts. 

La Saison Sportive Sweaters

Raise your hand if you can’t wait for sweater weather. (Raises hand excitedly) After a long, humid summer, the thrill of the weather dipping into the low 60s has never sounded better. Start off fall on a happy note with a new lush cardigan, staple oversized sweater, or a turtleneck you can layer with all year long.

La Saison Sportive Bottoms

Are you beginning to jot down holiday trips in your planner or do you have weekend getaways scheduled? Find your new signature travel pants that you can go from lounging in the bed or couch straight through TSA or the metro. There are breezy high-waisted Merino wool shorts and pants in regular or tall sizes.

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.

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