Trends in accessories most often speak directly to what's trending in clothing, but they can reflect what's in style in different ways – sometimes in a very literal way, but also in a more oblique way. They're also important to think about separately, because they can give people who might not be able to afford to buy into all arenas of high-end, luxury trends, a way to participate.
Bags:
Minaudière and novelty bags are having a moment (again).
The original minaudière – a small, ornate case for evening essentials – emerged with flapper culture in the 1920s and 1930s, with Van Cleef & Arpels creating the first true version in 1933, inspired by socialites like Florence Gould. These early versions were essentially pieces of jewellery, crafted from precious metals and stones. Then there are the more modern novelty bags, an endless playful category featuring bags from Kate Spade that resemble bouquets of flowers to Balenciaga's "bag of chips" clutch.
And now they're back in a big way – think Chanel, Moschino, Kate Spade and the queen of the category: Judith Leiber. Not just for evening wear, these unique bags are the perfect way to personalise an outfit.
Speaking of novelty, the obsession with the 90s and Noughties is clearly here to stay, with vintage lovers looking to the 2010s for inspiration: Phoebe Philo-era Celine (and Chloé), Nicolas Ghesquière’s Balenciaga, Marc Jacobs everything, and Miuccia Prada’s Prada and Miu Miu archives.
With brands relaunching and reimagining their most beloved designs - the Chloè Paddington, the Lady Dior, Coach's Kiss Lock (based on the original "Cashin Carry" from 1969), the "New Luggage" bag from Celine (an updated take on the Phantom Luggage bag) - it's clear that these brands know what their consumers want. It also makes the original bags even more desirable on the pre-loved market, with collectors looking for pre-loved and even well-loved versions.
Whether that's due to fakes and dupes continuing to flood the market (whereby the hypothesis is: worn in = real) "perfection fatigue", or general nostalgia – wearing a worn-in bag is in fact, the new status symbol, according to The Real Real's 2025 Resale Report. They launched an "As Is" category in 2024 – items that may require repair – which has seen sales rise month on month, while the "Fair" condition category – items with signs of heavy wear – is up 32% on last year.
The bags which remain firm favourites moving into 2026 include:
- Balenciaga Le City aka Motocycle Bag
- Chloè Paddington
- Celine Phantom
- anything Louis Vuitton x Murakami
- Louis Vuitton Speedy
- Dior Lady Dior
- Fendi Spy
- Fendi Baguette (extra points for rare textiles and limited editions)
And, if you're keen to get ahead of the curve, The Real Real Resale Report predicts these bags will be next to blow up on the pre-loved market:
- YSL Mombasa
- Hermès Plume
- Gucci Indy
- Prada Bauletto
- Celine Boogie
- Mulberry Roxanne
If you've been considering buying or selling one of these bags, now is the time!
Everything else:
Chunky & Layered: Try out a combination of mixed metals; bold chains, cuffs, bangles, and oversized, asymmetrical or sculptural earrings for a playful, individual, personal, "I'm a collector" look. Pendants, charm bracelets – more is more. Layer it up and off you go.
Jewel Tones: Rare, colourful stones like Paraíba tourmaline and tanzanite, along with amethyst and sapphire, are trending. Look for cocktail rings and statement pendants.
Scarves: All scarves, worn in various ways, are predicted to be a major accessory this year. Wear them on your head, in your hair, around your waist, as a top, or to add a personal touch to your handbag.
Vintage Details: Look for ornate trims, scalloped edges, lace, and intricate hardware. Brooches with an emphasis on vintage pins and heirloom pieces. Add some sparkle with crystal embellishments, and don't be afraid to get creative.
Socks: We've seen the sock-and-shoe thing trending for a while now, but why not make it a fun patterned sock? Think Gucci, Fendi. Or, play with textiles, metallics, something with a ruffle or a bright block colour.
Bag Charms: Individuality expressed outward. As well as scarves, adorning your bag with your charm(s) of choice remains firmly on-trend.
Prints & Textures: The tropical and animal prints we're seeing on the runways translate perfectly to accessories for a pop of something playful.