Accessories are the most important part of any outfit. They can elevate a basic white t-shirt into a paparazzi-ready chic ensemble. But as all fashion trends ebb and flow, accessories are no different, and with functionality on the line, how do we navigate the pocketless world of women’s clothing? Say it with me now– Purses! 

Since ancient times, purses– Or handbags– were used as a practical way for men to carry more items, usually for work. It wasn’t until the 1300s that women were permitted to carry anything visibly in public, and once they did, it served as a status symbol to denote one’s social class more than any practical means. The evolution of women’s handbags over the next couple of hundred years prioritized the aesthetic purposes of clutches; only large enough to carry little more than their handkerchiefs. Post-industrial revolution (circa 1800s), people began to travel more and thus needed larger bags to carry their belongings, which increased the demand for larger bags and luggage. 

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But now, 200 years later, what do we value in our own bags? Post-pocket invention, men discarded their handbags in daily wear, and that sentiment has stuck around. Bags became increasingly marketed towards women, their designs modified to appeal to more feminine aesthetics. Even after feminists fought for pockets in women’s garments, the market for women’s handbags had grown rapidly, and women began to own multiple bags for different occasions. This only increased by the end of the 1800s as department store shopping became more common. With women gaining more independence, handbags grew in size as they needed to carry more items not only for their personal effects, but for the increasing work they could find in the 1900s.

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Though currently, Gen Z is seeing a surge of men using tote bags, a basic gender-neutral style of shoulder bag. The tote bag is one of the best-selling styles right now for its simple design and practicality. It dominates the men's and women’s markets as one of the most functional bag options for everyday use.

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With a surge of interest in functionality, it’s no wonder that purses with larger capacities are making their way into every designer’s front page. Gone are the days of microbags! Consumers want style and functionality. Right now, we’re seeing a parallel to the roaring 1920s with increased demand for embellishments, especially fringe. Shoulder bags are the hottest style right now, as tote bags sweep and luxury brands follow the demand for purses that can carry everything for every occasion. Leather is huge, and suede is in high demand for its elegance and versatility. Textured fabrics, braided and woven materials, fringe, and chains are all seeing an increased demand. Movement and texture are hot! Combined with the practicality of a spacious shoulder bag, we’re sure to see a lot of it-girls flaunting their purses this summer.

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