10 November, 2021
After examining each and every one of our street style photos from New York, Milan, and Paris Fashion Week, it became clear that the biggest bag trend of the season was the illustrious top-handle. From influencers to editors, it seemed like everyone carried their favorite version, styled with dresses and suits alike. There are as many options as you can dream up, and since lots of them fall into the mini bag category, you can probably fit two (or more) in your closet. Whether you prefer classic leather or eye-popping feathers, we found the 24 best top-handle bags for the fall, no matter your budget.
1. Minimalist and Ladylike
The top-handle bag was huge in the 1940s and 50s, when fashion was ladylike but embracing modernity. We wish our grandmothers had saved more of their vintage styles, but luckily designers have stepped up to the plate with chic, minimalist pieces in a variety of finishes.
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Kozha Numbers The Mini Safe, $295
A buttery soft leather bag in classic black is the perfect way to start your top-handle bag collection.
A buttery soft leather bag in classic black is the perfect way to start your top-handle bag collection.
2. Statement-Making
On the days that you can’t be bothered to put together an Instagram-worthy outfit, a fabulous, outrageous, and downright look-at-me bag can make you feel like a million bucks. Pair them with jeans and a sweater, or your favorite cocktail dress. There’s no wrong way to rock one.
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Susan Alexandra Lisa Bag, $265
The cutest beaded bag on the market, hands down. Every fashion editor worth her salt has one.
The cutest beaded bag on the market, hands down. Every fashion editor worth her salt has one.
3. Treat Yourself
Sometimes you need to blow an entire paycheck on the bag of your dreams, and you know what? That is just fine by us. You do you, girl. Any of these top-handle styles will stand the test of time and are well worth the investment.
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Edie Parker Oval Bag, $1,295
There’s something simultaneously precious and modern about Edie Parker’s bags, and the Oval style in particular. Just imagine carrying this around to your holiday parties. Perfection.
There’s something simultaneously precious and modern about Edie Parker’s bags, and the Oval style in particular. Just imagine carrying this around to your holiday parties. Perfection.