The Hottest Handbag Trends You'll Want To Carry Everywhere For Fall 2026

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As fall 2026 continues to roll in, it's officially time to say goodbye to tiny bags and hello to larger, more practical pocketbooks we can fit more than just a lipstick in. "We've seen handbags move away from tiny novelty-driven styles toward bags that feel more functional and substantial," fashion stylist and lifestyle expert Joseph Katz exclusively confirms to Women.com of the shift away from overly aesthetic styles, like the microbags that trended in spring/summer 2024. But it's not just bigger that's better for pumpkin season. "[There's a] return to classic shapes and practicality — but with a fashion twist," Katz adds.

Fall 2026's trendiest handbag styles also prove that practical doesn't have to mean plain and boring. "Bags have more structure and capacity, while rich textures, interesting hardware and beautiful fall colors give them personality," Katz says. And, lucky for us, Katz is highlighting all the bag trends you'll want to carry with you this fall.

Seriously, push those super small bags to the back of your closet. Right to the back, because they're officially outdated and aren't showing signs of returning anytime soon. Instead, fall 2026 is all about supersized pocketbooks. "Maxi bags and roomy totes have a strong fashion presence, but they're also incredibly practical, which is a big reason I think women will embrace them this fall," Joseph Katz exclusively tells us. These bags are particularly perfect for those who don't like to travel light, busy moms with a lot to carry, and anyone spending extended time with family around Thanksgiving.

Katz recommends Verified New York's Espresso Suede Book Tote Bag 33 or the Teddy Blake Gigi Croco 13". If you prefer a more animal friendly alternative though, try the Montana West Top Handle Satchel, which comes in various colors and is made from vegan leather. We recommend Pastel Blue, seeing as powder blue is a color we're seeing in everyone's wardrobes in fall 2026.

Remember the hobo bags (aka pocketbooks with a rounded, super slouchy, loose silhouette) everyone was carrying in the 2000s? They're officially back this fall — with a modern twist. According to Joseph Katz, expect to see this casual bag style in materials like leather and suede, while simultaneously looking a little softer and more relaxed than in the Y2K era. "I love the hobo for fall because it has that effortless, lived-in quality that looks especially great against structured coats, jackets and fall layering," Katz says, exclusively. It's totally bohemian too, which is one of fall 2026's most popular fashion aesthetics.

Katz highlights Vestirsi's Scarlett 2.0 Leather Hobo or the Furla Goccia Shoulder Bag S for that soft and slouchy effect that's so popular for fall 2026. There's also the JOLILUNA Slouchy Hobo Bag in Burgundy, which is one of the season's hottest colors. Burgundy is also a great accessory choice for those who prefer to dress in darker hues (like black) in the cooler seasons, because it can instantly add color without overwhelming your look.

When picking out your perfect bag for fall 2026, think textures. According to Joseph Katz, this season's hottest pocketbooks feature the likes of suede, embossed crocodile print, and distressed leather. "These materials instantly give a handbag more depth and luxury, particularly in fall colors like burgundy, chocolate brown, forest green and earthy neutrals," he says. A fun print is also an instant way to upgrade bags in more bland but practical colors, like black, and can help make them formal event appropriate.

Katz listed the Belted Shoulder Bag in Burgundy Croc by Liffner amongst his favorites for the season because of its classy and elegant print. If you want to get in on multiple trends at once though, try the Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28 in Black Suede. It'll put you totally on trend with its textured material and slouchy hobo shape. If animal friendly, earthy suede is more your thing, reach for the JW PEI Dara Faux Suede Hobo Bag instead.

Fall 2026's bag trends are throwing it back. Joseph Katz tells us that vintage inspired aesthetics will be all over our handbags, so think along the lines of kiss-lock closures, decorative hardware, buckles, and chains. Also trending? Bag charms, which won't come as a shock to those who know bag charms already made a comeback as the unexpected accessory trend of the moment in 2024. "These details make a classic handbag feel more individual and special — and I love that you can embrace this trend without having to carry a bag covered in logos," Katz says, exclusively. They can also instantly upgrade your bag by adding whimsy and personality.

Katz recommends the Kisslock Frame Bag 27 from Coach because of its classic kisslock fastening and delicate design. He also suggested the Patricia Nash Leather Chauny Satchel, which taps into the vintage aesthetic thanks to its square shape and structure. For those looking for multiple trends in one bag, the Generic Kisslock Bag in PU Crocodile-coffee not only features a trendy crocodile texture and kisslock fastening, it also taps into fashion's ongoing love affair with brown.