2026 is the new 2016: IT girl bags were bringing back for 2026
The 1st of January usually marks the beginning of a new year, but this time around, social media has digressed. Apparently 2026 is the new 2016 but we are so on board, and how better to start this new era with a new handbag? Although, despite the 2016 comeback, bag trends aren’t forecasted to be as flamboyant and bold as before. Instead, they have pivoted to prioritize functionality and personality – bags carried with intention. Purses are being used to their fullest potential and serving their original purpose: to hold things. We are letting go of trends like micro bags, and alternatively, we’re choosing bags that convey subtle luxury. What is an organised woman without an organised bag? And to help you become that organised girl boss in 2026, here are the IT girl handbag trends that are worth investing in.
Lady-like bags
2025 saw the return of lady-like fashion, and 2026 will be no different. Fashion houses like Chanel have showcased softer silhouettes and demure garment wear, returning to their feminine roots. Double top handles, frames that hold structure and clipped openings – these are all parts of what makes a handbag lady-like. However, unlike the ‘old’ lady-like bags that are stiff and strict in their formation, new lady-like bags are slouchier and nonchalant. More often than not, they have exposed interiors that signify a sense of confidence and individuality – ‘I'm not afraid for you to see what is in my bag’, ‘I am a woman with purpose and ambition’. If you’re looking for a bag to last you the whole of 2026 – or even the next century – lady-like bags are the way to go. Not only are they a classic in fashion, but they will match with anything you wear. They hold space for your daily needs and they complete your look by adding composure.
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2. Chains
Chains on bags regularly oscillate between being trendy or not; and for 2026, the verdict is: very very trendy - but not like you would expect. Our previous obsession with quiet glamour brought along a period where metal and hardware were feared. But luckily for us, designers have found a way to flip this around; hardware is now smarter. It has become punctuation as opposed to decoration – bags are given a sense of occasion and elevation. And as we continue to manifest and romanticize our lives, chain bags feed our desire to feel a sense of occasion while being versatile – they are able to elevate any outfit for any event.
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3. Pouches
If you haven’t seen pouch bags become trendy in the last year I can only assume you live under a rock. Composed of features like drawstring, deliberate folds or crunches, and bag loops, pouch bags are designed to be touched, not displayed. The crunchy, slouchy look conveys a relaxed and laid back feel that lets your outfit do all the talking. You aren’t trying to prove anything to anyone; rather, you are the one that is confident and put together. These bags bring so much versatility into a wardrobe that it would be remiss not to own something of the kind. They can be used as day wear and evening wear, from a quick errand run to dinner with your girls.
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4. PASTELS
Looking for a way to add colour to an outfit? Look no further! Pastel colours are the answer. Think baby blue, baby pink, butter yellow, shallow lavender, and light turquoise. Though often perceived as child-like, pastel colours could not be a better way to spice up an outfit – they have the ability to soften up a bold look without detracting from it. Pastels add interesting compliments to colour palettes, or just become a statement in itself. Pair them with neutrals or match them tonally as opposed to literally – which can make your outfit look and feel dated. Even if pastels aren’t your vibe, it never hurts to try. Remember it is easy to wear black and call it chic, but the ability to mix colours and have it look chic? That is next level.
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5. oversized
This is a personal favourite of mine. No more fussing around with small micro bags that barely fit a phone and lip gloss. I want everything that I need for the day to fit in just one bag without looking like I am carrying around a gym bag – and that is exactly why everyone needs at least one oversized bag in their closet. For the everyday, to the holiday, this bag is as versatile as it gets – take it to a long day at uni or for a weekend trip away with the family. If you’re looking for your first oversized tote, find one that suits your needs – does it have enough pockets? Does it actually fit everything you need? And, of course, make sure it matches your style. Oversized bags are key to being that girl for 2026.
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6. animal prints
Animal prints have been a trend for a while now, but 2026 is bringing it to a whole other level. Instead of using animal prints as a statement piece, we’re using it as a way to elevate an outfit – not to have it scream in your face; but rather, controlled and worn with intent. My favourite types are those that only subtly emulate the animal print – larger, zoomed in patterns and muted in their colour palettes. If you’re just starting out on the trend, try to incorporate just one type of animal print to your outfit. As you become more confident, try mixing prints within a singular outfit – or, use the print’s tones to guide the direction of your outfit instead of letting the print decide what your outfit will look like.
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Many of the insights in this article are inspired by The 2026 Bag Trends That Will be Everywhere, a Youtube video by Girl Talk With Ju.
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