Autumn Winter 2018's Hottest Handbags

Chloé

Ever since Mansur Gavriel propelled the bucket bag back into prominence, the shape has been a fashion-forward alternative to the conventional tote. Never a brand to shy away from a cult handbag, Chloé’s new Roy design has all the tropes of its most celebrated styles, with neutral shades, gold hardware and practical multi straps all featuring, but coming in a cute mini size and a two-tone palette, it ticks the trend boxes too.

Prices from £525

Loewe

First came Burberry, then Gucci, and now Loewe is the latest brand to undergo a renaissance. Once considered a more under-the-radar name, the label has been propelled into the mainstream this year, thanks in large to a revamped accessories collection. Ok, there may have been some cult panda-shaped bags in the mix, but the designs we’re looking to are of the more practical variety – from the influencer-lauded Gate Leather crossbody to the new season Hammock style, these are handbags with personality and functionality in equal measure.

Prices from £850
 

Wandler

These designs may not tick the classic box, but for a more directional take on minimalism, you can’t beat Dutch label Wandler’s winged mini bags. A street style favourite, the pink offerings get our vote – wear straight through winter for an easy trend-lead twist.

Prices from £400
 

Mansur Gavriel

Move aside, classic bucket bag – Mansur Gavriel is moving on from its roots with a selection of smart totes that have serious appeal for those always on the go. Large holdalls are smart, simple and fuss-free, making them ideal if you’re after something that will stand the test of time without any ostentation. Plus, if you’re after something a little more fun, the pink folded leather bag is a summer favourite of Sheerluxe’s Georgie.

Prices from £325
 

Joseph

Joseph isn’t necessarily a name that springs to mind when it comes to handbags – in fact, the luxe Brit label only launched leather accessories last year. But with a strong design pedigree, it’s no surprise their smart, polished styles are an instant hit; we love their mini shapes, top handle detail and practical dark colour palette.

Prices from £425
 

Saint Laurent

There will always be a place in our heart for Saint Laurent’s classics quilted styles, but for a mature alternative try this season’s subtler brown offerings. Slick, practical and perfect for everyday, try crossbodies, totes and holdalls for a look you’ll wear for life.

Prices from £685
 

Nico Giani

Investing in a designer bag doesn’t have to cost the earth – new kid on the block Nico Giani’s pieces are available for under £300 and tap right into the minimalist-meets-quirky trend. Inspired by 50s and 60s architecture and interiors, their fun colours, structural shapes and unusual leather-bound hardware make them the perfect solution for fashion girls after something wearable.

Prices from £255
 

Sophie Hulme

These bucket styles are something of a departure for Sophie Hulme, who made her name with rectangular, top-handle designs with heavy enamel detailing. Another hero selection under £500, these classic leather pieces are guaranteed to stand the test of time, whilst the two-tone, calf hair style earns fashion forward points.

Prices from £375
 

Fendi

Along with Dior and Burberry, the Fendi print is back on the agenda, with street style stars all spotted swinging their logo-laden handbags. But investing in the classic label doesn’t have to mean going full Carrie Bradshaw – the polished By The Way, with its practical, squat shape, top handle detailing and long strap, is the grown-up way to sport the back-in-favour brand.

Prices from £790

A.P.C

French label A.P.C is known in fashion circles for delivering on preppy, wearable classics, and these polished leather crossbodies confirm it’s still doing just that. The signature half-moon shape is now right on trend – plus, free from ostentatious labels and fussy details, their accessories are the hallmark of being a true fashion insider.

Prices from £345