Although there are plenty of purses that give us a peek into the past, none are as popular as studded bags presently. Embellished bags aren't an entirely new trend, as they've been reported to be around since the Victorian era. However, we've seen them emerge again thanks partly to luxury fashion houses releasing some of the most sought-after styles, including Khaite's Elena Studded Bag. In many ways, the return of this formerly dated trend speaks to this moment in fashion and broader pop culture. For example, the bag style reflects how the boho revival was brought about by the appointment of Chemena Kamali to Chloé, and its return has happened in tandem with the rise of alt-girl fashion, which was further popularized by Charli XCX's viral Brat album this summer. In short, studded bags speak to this moment sublimely, so there's no better item to secure for fall.

If you're not sold yet, keep scrolling to see our curation of the 30 best studded bags based on quality, functionality, wearability, brand recognition, and price point. Trust us when we say that studded bags are the moment, period.

I love nothing more than when a friend comes to me for shopping advice, especially about an investment purchase. The other day, I was thrilled when my friend shared that she had been saving and was ready to invest in a designer bag.

Immediately, I took it upon myself to help her find her dream bag. I spent hours researching and meticulously analyzing the market to compile a comprehensive list of the best bags available. I established specific criteria, focusing on timeless designs, quality construction, high resale value, and the reputation of luxury brands renowned for their quality and demand. After sifting through over 150 designer bags, I narrowed the selection to 27 fail-safe investments. I made sure to include a diverse range of options from esteemed designers such as Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Prada as well as emerging brands like Aesther Ekme and Bevza. The curated edit features a variety of styles, including slouchy shoulder bags, structured bowler bags, and elegant evening clutches.

Want to see the styles I recommended? Keep reading because I've highlighted 27 investment-worthy handbags below, all for your shopping pleasure. Even if you're not currently looking for a new bag, the handbags below are worth adding to your wish list.

As an editor, I’ve had the opportunity to test a lot of designer bags, but the brand I gravitate toward for my own personal purchases time and again is Coach. You could blame it on my age, but it really comes down to quite a few reasons: the excellent branding, the mid-luxury price point, the wide range of silhouettes, and the designs that offer a fit for everyone. It’s hard to scroll on TikTok without seeing another person (or the brand’s social media–savvy sales associates) showcasing the latest bag on the market. The virality makes complete sense since with the last few collections, Coach has managed to perfect the formula of what feels youthful and cool without compromising the quality the heritage brand prides itself on.

I have my fair share of Coach bags, but the massive online following the latest bags have managed to create has made me curious. How will these bags hold up in my day-to-day life? Am I allured by the Brooklyn simply because Bella Hadid was wearing it? Will the Empire bag work for me like it did on the runway? Is the Swing Zip really that good for it to be sold out all this time? All these questions are answered below in my review of Coach’s Empire, Brooklyn, and Swing Zip. And despite the brand being a Gen Z favorite, after trying out these three, I'm firm in my stance that there’s a bag on Coach’s roster for everyone. From running errands to heading to your 9-to-5, I found the bags that work for every style. Keep scrolling to see my thoughts on the viral accessories.

When I first saw Coach's F/W 24 collection, I knew the giant Empire bag coming down the runway would be a hit. To me, it felt like the Empire was for the working woman, the one who lugs around half of Apple's ecosystem and sends emails about "circling back" and doesn't include extra exclamation points with every single sentence. When I wore it to our office in Bryant Park, I carried that empowering feeling with me. It felt like the professional bag I dreamed of, but Coach made the silhouette feel cool and youthful by proposing the idea of adding charms. The typical 9-to-5 has changed drastically in the past few years, so who says you can't treat your work bag like a charm bracelet?

I tried out the Empire 48, and it fit everything I needed for the workday and more. My laptop, iPad, keyboard, and planner all fit seamlessly with room for a jacket, an extra pair of shoes (because I can't tolerate heels for too long anymore), and miscellaneous necessities. But disclaimer—while I loved the runway essence the 48 gave me, moving forward, I think I'd size down to the 40. The 48 seems like it would be a great stylish swap as a travel bag, but for work, it did end up being too heavy to carry around the city.

Everyone needs an easy throw-everything-in-and-go slouchy bag, and The Brooklyn Bag is the one to have. Ever since Bella Hadid was spotted wearing the bag, it started to gain traction on TikTok, and everyone's been wanting to get their hands on it. I usually go for larger slouchy bags, but I was more interested to see how the 28 would fit for day-to-day occasions. To me, Brooklyn is for days of running errands, and by running errands, I mean getting a sweet treat, buying yourself flowers at the Union Square farmers market, and then popping over to The Strand to buy the latest Sally Rooney book (which fits perfectly into the bag, by the way!). I'm usually a schlepper, running around the city with multiple bags, but felt at ease with this small suede bag resting on my arm.

Along with my book, I also was able to comfortably carry my phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, and a few lip products. I could see myself reaching for this every day, but if you like to have your laptop or iPad on you, the size 39 would be up your alley.

If the Empire is for work or travel, and the Brooklyn is for everyday errands, then the Swing Zip is the bag to take when going out. It's for "girl dinners" that consist of caesar salads and truffle fries, for the nights when all you need is a bag to fit three lip glosses and maybe a credit card. Luckily for me, the Swing Zip, however, is sleek in design but also offers enough room for real functionality. As someone who usually only invests in larger handbags that offer more use, I was impressed by this bag the most. I've been going out a lot less (stay-at-home movie nights are my calling), but wearing this bag made me feel like I could use some more nights out on the town. Based on a 1998 design, this bag reminds me of the vintage Coach bags I'd put in offers for on eBay but has been perfectly reimagined for modern day.

I wore it out and didn't feel like I was jamming everything I needed in the purse. My phone, wallet, lip products, and keys fit perfectly snugly into the bag. The long adjustable straps felt comfortable on my arm, something I can't say for other small bags I have in my wardrobe.

If you've visited our site in the past week, you may have noticed that we are in the midst of our annual Great Try-On. For autumn 2024, our editors are hitting the high street to scope out the most expensive-looking buys for the new season, all delivered with guidance on fit, fabric and wearability. Already we've showcased wardrobe classics from Arket, turned to COS for autumn heroes, explored Zara's expensive-looking gems and cosied up in & Other Stories' new-in finds. Tomorrow, we'll be exploring the best of H&M's autumn collections, so make sure you check back for that, as it really is an excellent edit. And Megan was scouring the shop floor of H&M when she stumbled across a very chic tote bag—one that boasts a designer look and a practical shape.

One of the most coveted totes right now is The Row's Margaux, and whilst I will always advocate for investing in the original if it's within your means, H&M's option allows those of us who can't afford the original (it's not cheap) to tap into The Row's high-luxury aesthetic. As somewhat of an expert in all things high street, I knew this would move quickly, so I came straight here to share it with you.

Over the past few years, designers have turned their focus from the fantastical to the wearable, highlighting the most useful pieces in our wardrobes, and this has extended to accessories. Think of the return of the ballet flat—not only undeniably chic but also a comfortable alternative to heels. In handbags, the same celebration of practicality has arisen, where once impractical micro-mini bags were the go-to companion, then came the return of the tote. And H&M's is seriously chic and seriously affordable.

Featuring smooth lines, an understated black colourway and plenty of room for your daily essentials and a little more, this £43 bag is going to move quickly. Whether carried as a tote, slung over your shoulder or very fashionably tucked under the arm like Megan did (pictured above), this is a bag you'll reach for on repeat. The metal studs underneath protect the base from wear, whilst the adjustable straps on either side allow you to customise the opening depending on how full you've packed your shopper.

Ready to see the bag in question and shop more expensive-looking high-street bags? Scroll on!

SHOP THE DESIGNER-PASSING H&M SHOPPER:

Shop More Excellent Tote Bags:

Handbags, in particular, play a crucial role in elevating any outfit. The right bag is a subtle yet powerful way to make an ensemble feel more put together. Unlike clothing, which might be trend-driven or seasonal, bags are versatile accessories that offer endless styling opportunities, often bridging the gap between casual and formal with their ability to change the tone of a look. A well-chosen handbag can take a simple look and add an immediate air of sophistication. Whether it’s for the workplace or weekend outings, the an elegant handbag can enhance an outfit without overwhelming it, becoming a go-to piece that will become a style signature of yours. The big question is, which elegant handbag trend is up to this lofty challenge? I've spent hours researching the chicest styles on offer, and six kept cropping up. See and shop them below.

6 Elegant Handbag Trends That Make Outfits Look Instantly Put Together

1. Mock Croc

Style Notes: Mock croc fabrications always look expensive, owning to the fact that when the real thing was used more frequently in fashion, it was just that—very expensive to buy. Now, however, there are so many sleek-looking faux iterations of the material that haven't lost their elegant connotations. Often boasting a glossy finish and refined metal hardware, a mock croc bag will always look polished.

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2. Suede Tote

Style Notes: Right now we're seeing more demand for tote bags than ever before, but there is a nuance to this sudden popularity. While leather styles will always be in, it's suede totes that have won fashion people over. While brown is perhaps the most elegant-looking hue (even more so than black, in my opinion), there are a slew of other stylish colours to choose from, too.

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3. Sleek Clutch

Style Notes: It might not be the most practical bag on the list but, in terms of looking elegant and refined, a clutch bag will always serve you well. While we've seen everything from puffy pouches to woven leather come through previously, it's longer, East-West silhouettes that feel the most premium and timeless.

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4. Top-Handle

Style Notes: I tend to avoid using the word "ladylike", but there's no better word to describe a top-handle bag. From smaller, dainty styles to roomy, fold-over silhouettes that could house a laptop, if they have a handle to hold in your hand, they'll always edge towards looking elegant.

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5. Two-Tone

Style Notes: While colourful handbags can look very chic—there are several styles in my edit that prove this point out—there's just something about black-and-white handbags that scream sophistication and whisper wealth.

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6. Simple Saddle

Style Notes: While some deem crossbodies as casual or low-key, I don't think this is necessarily the case, especially when you see the new guard of very sleek styles on offer at so many brands, from Gucci to Sézane.

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Saint Laurent's of-the-moment hobo bag was first spotted on two of its most influential ambassadors, Zoë Kravitz and Hailey Bieber. Bieber carried the bag back in July during the latter stage of her pregnancy, styling it with an equally talked-about leather bomber jacket, black trousers, and her signature '80s earrings for a church service with her husband. With an all-black backdrop, the spotted nature of her purse stood out significantly, leaving fans of the Rhode founder's style to inquire about the anti-quiet bag from the get-go. When Kravitz was seen around the same time at a dinner with Saint Laurent's creative director, Anthony Vaccarello, at Sushi Park in Los Angeles, the leopard-print bag was also in tow.

On Hailey Bieber: Saint Laurent Bomber Jacket in Lambskin ($6500) and Le 5 à 7 Small YSL Hobo Bag in Leopard-Print Calf Hair ($2900); Jacquemus Les Slingbacks Cubisto H ($945)

I certainly didn't expect to spot Saint Laurent's latest viral handbag at the Italian Grand Prix, but I did, on Alexandra Saint Mleux, a content creator and the girlfriend of Scuderia Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc. Saint Mleux wore the handbag on two occasions during her stay in Monza, showing off its versatile qualities in the F1 paddock. On its debut, she styled the statement accessory with a white crop top and matching knee-length skirt, also adding gold-rim sunglasses and strappy, flat sandals to the mix. Two days later, after wearing a leopard-print coat for Quali day, she paired the bag with a simple, bateau-neck midi dress in black and an alternative pair of flat sandals for a walk in the paddock with the couple's dachshund Leo.

On Alexandra Saint Mleux: Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Small YSL Hobo Bag in Leopard-Print Calf Hair ($2900)

With the clearly popular bag selling out, another similar style—the Bea, which is larger and more tote-like but with the same elegant and practical appeal—quickly took its place. The oversize open-top bag, which features the same golden hardware and leopard-printed calf-hair exterior as the Le 5 à 7, was spotted not once, not twice, but three times in late September, first on Bieber, then again on Harrier, and last, on Kate Moss.

Bieber paired her Bea with a matching Toteme leopard-print coat, black trousers, and red Adidas Sambas for a church service with Justin in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Harrier and Moss both debuted theirs in Paris—Harrier at Charles de Gaulle airport, where she was spotted alongside her fiancé, Sam Jarou, sporting the same '80s-style leather Saint Laurent bomber jacket that Bella Hadid and Bieber can't stop wearing as well as black yoga pants, a hoodie, and Adidas sneakers, and Moss outside of the Ritz Paris, styled with a black cashmere sweater, leggings, and knee-high boots.

On Hailey Bieber: Toteme Pony Hair Coat Leopard ($5700); Intimissimi Boat Neck Modal Cashmere Ultralight Top ($59); Saint Laurent Bea Leopard-Print Tote Bag in Calf Hair and Leather ($5100); Adidas sneakers

On Laura Harrier: Saint Laurent Bomber Jacket ($6500) and Bea Leopard-Print Tote Bag in Calf Hair and Leather ($5100)

On Kate Moss: Saint Laurent Bea Leopard-Print Tote Bag in Calf Hair and Leather ($5100)

Bags aren't the only category that's taken a liking to leopard print. The outerwear, footwear, and skirt categories too have all seen recent success with the anti-quiet pattern, taking cues from iconic dressers who preferred it in the past, like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, and Alexa Chung. Ferragamo, Prada, Toteme, and Michael Kors are but a few of the top fashion brands that have joined Saint Laurent in adding leopard into their fall and winter collections, bringing it to its highest high of the decade.

Celebrate the triumphant return of leopard print (though, for some, it never left) by shopping the few Saint Laurent bags left in stock below. And if not a bag, I also included plenty of other, just-as-outfit-making leopard pieces for you to consider.

Shop fall's first It bag before it sells out:

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There's no denying the rhetoric that French women appreciate clothing and I can vouch for the fact they adore accessories in equal measure. From Jane Birkin spearheading the basket bag trend to the noughties Baguette bag, and the excellence of Hermès, there are ample examples to demonstrate the significance of handbags in Paris’ fashion history.

Nowadays, you needn't part with thousands if you are inspired by the handbag aesthetic of French women. Mid-priced luxury retailers have corned the market, producing some of the most sought-after handbag styles across the globe. From the highly coveted shapes of Polène to the lesser-known independent brands nestled in the streets in Le Marais, allow me to introduce you to 12 handbag brands French women wear year-round.

SEE THE BEST FRENCH BAG BRANDS:

1. Polène

You'll be hard-pressed not to spot the snaking queue around Polène's Flagship store in Bourse when visiting Paris. Despite living here for a year, I'm still astounded at the dedication of its customer base, some of whom travel cross-country to invest in its directional bags. Beloved for plush designs, high-quality fabrications and entry-level pricing, it's an attainable luxury worthy of investment.

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2. Tammy and Benjamin

You'll find the Tammy and Benjamin boutique nestled in Le Marais, home to many French ateliers, consignment stores and independent boutiques. On my first visit in-store I was impressed by the refined and intentional capsule. Each piece speaks to the essence of French style, bearing simple silhouettes with a French lilt. Its bags will surely stand the test of time.

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3. RSVP

With modernity at the forefront, RSVP is passionate about the integrity of leather, married with expert practice, functionality and seamless design. Each style features its signature circular hardware which has become recognisable in France.

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4. Longchamp

Jean Cassegrain pioneered Longchamp's convertible totes in 1971 and France has never looked back. I spot women wearing Longchamp handbags at least a handful of times per day and the brand has come a long way since its original Le Pliage. Its Roseau bag fast became an Editor favourite.

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5. Leo et Violette

Powerhouse couple Léo Dominguez and Violette Polchi founded their eponymous accessories brand Léo et Violette in 2013. Comprising a collection of ethically produced elegant shapes beloved by French women, their arsenal features shapes from the baguette bag to taught leather satchels.

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6. Sézane

Sézane has become a marker for French retail excellence with high quality and timeless iterations of French wardrobe staples. Now B Corp certified, the brand is leading the way for sustainability on the high street. It boasts a considered collection of apparel and the bags are highly worthy of praise!

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7. Sandro

Know for its clean lines and take on French minimalism, luxury fashion house Sandro comes highly recommended for its leather goods. This season, the brand offers a playful take on its shoulder bags and a host of burgundy handbags to boot,

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8. Rouje

Visionary Jeanne Damas created Rouje in 2016, in a bid to expertly craft the pieces in a French woman's typical uniform — from croc-effect purses to oxblood bucket bags, there are styles for all to enjoy.

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9. Atelier Auguste

Laurent and Xavier Valembert sought to pair their adoration for achitecture with handbag design, resulting in Atelier Auguste's fine leather goods. The luxury handbag brand produces in Italy, with ethical production at the helm.

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10. Elleme

Aptly inspired by the French phrase "Elle aime", translating to she loves, Elleme handbags are best known for femininity and playful design. One of its most coveted styles is the Baozi Raffia bag.

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11. Cahu

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First conceived in Normandy and inspired a heartwarming story of nostalgia, Cahu's USP is the creation of patent holdalls crafted from hard-wearing PVC. It's a slightly more casual brand to have on your roster.

12. Dragon Diffusion

Jane Birkin's affinity for basket bags has been a footprint for French handbag trends. Although Dragon diffusion isn't a French brand, it is well-loved in Paris.

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Originally crafted to carry bowling balls, the bowling bag design feature a top handle and a capacious silhouette, and recently fashion brands have been serving up chic iterations of the style that can house your daily belongings comfortably.

Ideal for frequent wearing, the bowling bag buoys between smart and causal, offering a wearable silhouette that can see you through so many occasions. A large iteration such as The Row's Margaux 17 is a favourite amongst editors who often use the bag in place of a suitcase or weekender for any overnight stints. Smaller sizes can comfortably house a laptop for trips to the office, and micro styles stand in as an elegant alternative to a clutch for evening events.

The further in to autumn we move, the more and more I'm seeing this bag silhouette crop up around me. A style staple in the early 2000s, 2024's versions features sleeker and more minimal designs in a rich range of hues.

Now that the weather has dipped and we're obliged to haul around a layer or two, the big bag offers ample room for squeezing in an extra knit.

Catering to the growing demand, brands including Reformation, Mango, and M&S with all host versions of the trend, with sizes ranging from obnoxiously large, to smaller, evening-ready styles.

Perhaps it's the continued exposure to the nostalgic trend, or maybe it's the smart silhouette that's piquing my affection, but this understated bag is officially on my autumn wish list.

Freshly inspired to shop the style myself, read on to discover my edit of the best bowling bags to shop for autumn 2024.

SHOP THE BOWLING BAG TREND:

The designs of diaper bags have come a long way, with luxury and contemporary brands offering products that have aesthetics in mind while adding functional enhancements. Below, we've included the iconic Burberry checked bag, which has been reimagined with comfortable straps and additional pockets to hold your baby's essentials. Travel brands like Béis and Dagne Dover have added key features like stroller clips, changing mats, and zipper pockets for easy access to wipes to their best-selling bags.

Sometimes, the best diaper bag for you doesn't even have to be designed with that purpose in mind. Some parents shared with Who What Wear that they've chosen to minimize their purchases by using tote bags and duffels that they already own to meet their requirements as diaper bags and can be used later in life once the baby's grown up.

Whether you want the bag with all the helpful enhancements possible or would rather have a simpler silhouette, there's something here tailored for every preference. After all, as long as it fits everything you need to make outings with your little one easier, it's perfect.

Keep scrolling to discover the best diaper bags chosen by stylish parents and some more Who What Wear favorites.

The Best Diaper Bags, According to Who What Wear

• Best Value: L.L.Bean Boat and Tote, $40
• Best Designer: Burberry Check Baby Change Bag, $1390
• Best Versatile: Lululemon New Parent Backpack 17l, $198
• Best in Style: Happ Levy Backpack Dusty Rose, $179
• Best Affordable: BabbleRoo Diaper Bag Backpack, $31

Adding dimension in a wearable way, olive feels fairly muted—almost akin to a neutral—making it easy to style with most autumn outfits. It's no surprise that the colour is coming through heavily this season, as the runways predicted its revival for autumn back in February. Showcasing olive looks en masse, brands including Burberry, Ferragamo and Ulla Johnson gave the underrated shade the love it deserves. Just as chic as the burgundy and brown we're seeing so much of, olive green is perhaps the most directional of the bunch, which is why fashion people are so drawn to it.

Already all over my Instagram feed, the emerging handbag trend is ready to be snapped up in stores. Cropping up across H&M, Reformation and Sézane, as well as at Loewe and Bottega Veneta, the olive-green bag trend is rivalling its black and brown counterparts this autumn.

Whether bobbing in my martini or sitting in my wardrobe, I'll always be into olive. If you're also inclined, read on to discover the best olive-green bags to shop this September.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST OLIVE-GREEN BAGS: