Bags Parisians Are Carrying This Spring

C’est le printemps à Paris. Fresh from an extended weekend getaway in the City of Light, I’ve returned home with fresh insights into the latest trends, particularly when it comes to bags.

There’s a shift in the air in Paris – partly seasonal, as fashionistas lighten and brighten their loads and partly a move away from the obvious iconic names. It’s not necessarily about quiet luxury or a decline of top brands, but rather an embrace of handbags from lesser-known brands, smaller labels, and local artisans.

Image courtesy: @bbcvl

I’ve curated a selection of the must-have handbags adorning the arms of every Parisian right now. Some are old, some are new – all are as expected, très chic.

Hermès – Kelly

It comes as no surprise that chic Parisians continue to parade their Hermès Kelly bags this spring, but it’s the vintage pieces that caught my attention. Box leather is truly back.

Image courtesy: @l_t_w_s

Vintage Kelly bags dominated the streets, held by the ladylike top handle or draped casually across the shoulder with the removable strap. Often paired with a simple t-shirt and jeans, the Kelly speaks for itself. Unlike past seasons, the bags are bigger, mostly sizes 28 and 32, not the minis and 25s clamored for in the United States.

Image courtesy: @lelasfez

While classic black Box leather Hermès Kellys undoubtedly turn heads, it’s the deep, rich red tones that dominate – think Rouge H and Rouge Sellier. These hues, reminiscent of the palette showcased on Hermès’ Fall 2024 runway in March, are the epitome of cool, with Hermès reigning supreme in the mastery of color.

Image courtesy: @lisonseb

Image courtesy: @lisonseb

DeMellier – New York Tote

In a surprising twist, Parisians have looked across the pond, and taken to British brand DeMellier. Renowned for its commitment to ethical craftsmanship, DeMellier has captured attention with its minimalist aesthetic, quality materials, excellent craftsmanship, and attractive price points.

Image courtesy: @Iglora

At the forefront of DeMellier’s collection is the New York Tote. This timeless piece is understated and interesting. Its architectural-inspired silhouette features distinctive triangular folds on each side. Reminiscent of the Celine Trapeze designed by Phoebe Philo, the New York Tote’s folds can be secured in their winged-out position with snap fastenings. Finished with discreet gold-belted hardware, the New York Tote screams quiet luxury.

Image courtesy: @svedae

Image courtesy: @amandinebru_

Available in two sizes – the Midi version measures 22 x 48 x 15 cm (8.6 x 18.8 x 5.9 inches) and comfortably accommodates an iPad. For added convenience, the Midi size also comes with a slim shoulder strap, offering further styling options.

Meanwhile, its larger sibling, with generous proportions of 28 x 51 x 22 cm (11 x 20 x 8.6 inches) is perfectly suited for those who require extra room for a laptop or additional belongings.

Image courtesy: @Iglora

This versatile bag comes in a variety of fabrics and textures, including croc-effect leather and summer-ready raffia. However, for Spring, the suede appears to be the brand’s biggest hit. Prices start at €530 (£425/$575) for the Midi size, crafted from small grain leather or suede. When it comes to colours, choose from Mocha Suede, or leather in Black, Tan, Off-White, and the more unique Olive shade to suit your style.

Image courtesy: @margauxbtn

Image courtesy: @margauxbtn

Bottega Veneta – Teen Jodie

While Bottega’s Andiamo basks in the fashion spotlight, Parisians have not yet given up on the Teen Jodie. Initially introduced in 2020, this Intrecciato woven shoulder bag is aDoréd for its soft rounded shape, adorned by the Jodie’s signature knot detail.

Image courtesy: @capucinerallrt

Offered in an array of sizes, ranging from the petite Candy, through to the mighty medium, Bottega’s Jodies seamlessly integrate into many fashion styles. Currently, the most coveted size is the Teen, measuring 21 x 36 x 13 cm (8.2 x 14.2 x 5.1 inches), this mid-sized shoulder bag is a versatile option for many occasions.

Image courtesy: @capucinerallrt

Image courtesy: @capucinerallrt

Despite its fairly compact look, it boasts a spacious interior to effortlessly accommodate essentials. Perfectly suited to Parisians on the move, the Jodie features a secure zip-top closure, to deter any potential inquisitive hands on the metro.

Image courtesy: @chlosertoyou

True to Bottega Veneta’s aesthetic, the Teen Jodie is offered in a range of colorways, including Fondant and the spring-appropriate pastel green shade Glacier, in lambskin leather. However, it’s the suede offering that seems to be the must-have. With its buttery soft texture and interesting shades, including Porridge, Thunder, Green, and Teal you can be sure to make a springtime statement. The suede Teen Jodie retails for €2,900 (£2,600/$3,500).

Image courtesy: @Iglora

Image courtesy: @Iglora

Polène – Cyme

Parisians are known for supporting their local brands, and Polène, despite being a relative newcomer, has quicker earned their loyalty. The brand has firmly established itself as a go-to for fashion-forward locals, offering impeccable quality at a more accessible price point. Given its Parisian roots, it’s no wonder that residents (and tourists alike) are eschewing their other handbags in favour of Polène’s stylish options.

Image courtesy: @esengamze_

At the heart of Polène’s extensive collection lies the Cyme tote. Featuring a sculptural winged-out silhouette reminiscent of DeMellier’s New York Tote, the Polène iteration is more minimalistic. Stripped of hardware, the Cyme’s beauty lies in its clean lines and elegant form, characterised by waves, folds, curves, and panels.

Image courtesy: @ines_rodd

What truly sets this tote apart is its versatility. As Polène describes it, the Cyme can be worn “Basket-style”, with its sides open and straps on the outside, or “As a flower-like closed bag”, with its sides tucked in and its straps crossed on the inside.” Most commonly seen on the streets of Paris as an open-top tote, the Cyme effortlessly transitions from shoulder to hand-held with its duo of shoulder straps.

Image courtesy: @capucinerallrt

Image courtesy: @sweet_sixtineee

Available in one size measuring 32 x 38 x 17 cm (12.5 x 14.9 x 6.6 inches), the Cyme comes in Black, Camel, Taupe, and Cognac, crafted from textured calf leather and boasting a suede microfiber lining. Priced at €380 (£380/$520), we can see why this chic tote is an irresistible choice. Just be prepared for the queues at the Polène boutique in Paris.

Image courtesy: @ines_rodd

Celine - Teen Triomphe

Despite its initial release in 2018, the Teen Triomphe continues to be a ‘new classic’ in the City of Light. While it enjoyed its reign as the ‘it’ bag in 2023, the Teen Triomphe collection has only grown. As a result, the Teen Triomphe’s desirability continues well into 2024, as it firmly establishes itself as a classic yet contemporary handbag.

Image courtesy: @marine_diet

Offered in multiple sizes, the Teen remains the must-have of the lineup, measuring 18.5 x 13.5 x 7 cm (7 x 5 x 3 inches), offering a day-to-night option. Crafted in glossy calfskin, the Teen Triomphe is complemented by its sleek and enduring design. Despite its delicate appearance, the coating renders the leather remarkably resilient, ideal for navigating the occasional springtime drizzle.

Image courtesy: @capucinerallrt

The Teen Triomphe integrates into the fast-paced lifestyle of Parisians, thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap, allowing for versatile wear as a crossbody or shoulder bag. Its hands-free functionality provides convenience for navigating the bustling streets of the Champs-Élysée or effortlessly navigating the Métro.

Image courtesy: @bbcvl

Image courtesy: @lilylovesfashion

Available in 13 colorways, from timeless Black to sophisticated Pebble and Soft Yellow, there’s a Teen Triomphe to suit every taste. The Celine Teen Triomphe currently retails for €3,200 (£2,850/$3,950) in the Shiny Calfskin version.

Image courtesy: @bbcvl

Le Tanneur – Emilie

During my little Parisian adventure, I stumbled upon this find – Le Tanneur’s Emilie. A little bit of digging revealed that Le Tanneur is a French heritage brand, founded in 1898. While a lesser-known name to many, myself included, the brand reports that its bags are entirely made in France still to this day.

Image courtesy: @audreyats

Le Tanneur’s Emilie bag appears to be a go-to for locals. Perhaps one of the brand’s most popular options, it featured a flap front design familiar to most handbag lovers. Crafted in luxurious-grained leather, the Emilie handbag has timeless appeal. Its satchel-like style, adorned with Le Tanneur’s signature T hardware details, adds a touch of detailing. The bag comes with an adjustable and detachable shoulder strap and a ladylike top handle for hand-held wear.

Image courtesy: @margauxbtn

Image courtesy: @margauxbtn

The Emilie comes in two sizes – with the small being the most popular. Measuring 20 x 17 x 8.5 cm (7.8 x 6.6 x 3.3 inch), this small flap front handbag is available in four colorways in full-grained cowhide leather – Tan, Black, and shades of blue named Horizon, and Twilight.

With a price tag of €450 (£385/$540), we can see why Pariaisns are opting to wear a piece of French heritage, especially at that price point. You can find Le Tanneur online and in Printemps in Paris.