Côte d’Azur’s Fashion Elite are Carrying These Handbags for Autumn

Having just returned from an end-of-summer escape along the Côte d’Azur, I observed how the stylish locals are adjusting their accessories to reflect the changing season. From swapping out summer’s raffia for versatile leather bags to embracing sophisticated new silhouettes, each piece highlights how the fashion-conscious are updating their wardrobes for autumn’s cooler days.

Image courtesy: @lenaterlutter

So, whether you’re seeking the perfect companion for a sun-drenched fall getaway or a versatile piece to carry you from beach to city, take inspiration from the Côte d’Azur’s latest fall trends.

Hermès – Balusoie

On the sun-drenched shores of the French Riviera, where Hermès Birkins and Kellys reign supreme, the Balusoie is quietly stealing the spotlight. Favored for its non-leather, effortless design, it comes as no surprise that the Balusoie has become a favorite accessory for stylish individuals along the Côte d’Azur.

Read also: Hermès Bags That Should Be On Your Radar This Fall

Image courtesy: @dariaksenz

Crafted from printed silk with a Hunter cowhide leather handle, the Balusoie offers an elegant alternative for both sunny autumn days and cooler evenings. Its vibrant prints, including ‘La Promenade du Matin Bandana,’ add a splash of sophistication to even the most casual knitwear and jeans ensemble. 

Image courtesy: @dariaksenz

Lightweight and unlined, the Balusoie measures 32 x 24 x 12 cm (12.5 x 9.4 x 4.7 inches), it provides ample space for your essentials without being bulky. 

Hermès’ Balusoie bag currently retails for €2,020 ($2,675).

Image courtesy: @dariaksenz

Image courtesy: @lenaterlutter

Miu Miu – Ivy

Miu Miu’s Ivy is not just a summer hit but also a versatile choice for fall. A leather version will make the cut for late fall and winter, but right now the Ivy in canvas is the bag for transitioning to early fall.

Read also: 10 Buzziest Bags of 2024

Image courtesy: @lenamahfouf

Among Miu Miu’s Ivy collection, the canvas version is particularly popular along the Côte d’Azur. With its minimal design, the Ivy features a durable Beige canvas body accented with Brandy-toned leather. Finished with Miu Miu’s signature logo in leather, it can be worn on either side for a more subdued look.

Image courtesy: @yuka

Image courtesy: @yuka

Measuring 40 x 35 cm (15.7 x 13.7 inches), the Ivy offers a slim profile that sits comfortably on the shoulder, or can be carried by hand. Inside, it includes one main compartment with a zippered pocket for essentials. 

Image courtesy: @lenamahfouf

The coveted canvas Ivy is priced at €1,400 (£1,290). Meanwhile, the more fall-approprioate all leather edition retails for €1,700 (£1,560/$1,700), and is offered in Black, Cognac, Chalk White, and Briarwood. 

Saint Laurent – Icare Maxi

The Saint Laurent Icare Maxi – a standout handbag of 2022– has proven itself as more than just a fleeting trend. Known for its oversized charm and practicality, this now-iconic bag continues to impress. While its raffia version introduced in 2023 was a summer favorite on the Côte d’Azur, the classic all–leather edition is perfect for the cooler months.

Read also: The YSL Icare Maxi: Do We Still Care About the Icare?

Image courtesy: @josefinehj

For a sophisticated all-year round option, the Icare Maxi in Black quilted lambskin, offers a refined look. With its generous dimensions of 38 – 55 x 43 x 8 cm (15 – 22.8 x 16.9 x 3.1 inches), the quilted lambskin offers a relaxed, slouchy silhouette. Adorned with Saint Laurent’s iconic Cassandre logo, it’s unmistakably YSL.

Image courtesy: @leoniehanne

Complete with a matching removable leather pouch, the Icare Maxi in Raffia is the epitome of everyday chic. Saint Laurent’s Icare retails for €4,100 (£3,755/$4,900).

Goyard – Sénat Pouch

While Goyard’s iconic Saint Louis tote remains a staple on the French Riviera, the Sénat Pouch is the grab-and-go accessory of choice this season.

Read also: The Goyard Tote Price Guide 2024: USA vs Europe vs UK

The Sénat Pouch, with its petite, lightweight design, effortlessly combines elegance with practicality. More than just a stylish accessory, it’s both functional and versatile. Ideal for organizing larger bags (think Saint Laurent Icare Maxi) or carrying on its own as a chic pouch, it features a secure zip closure and a handy interior pocket. Available in six sizes and 11 vibrant colors, the Sénat Pouch is perfect for keeping essentials organized in style.

Read also: Is This the Most Underrated Goyard Accessory?

Image courtesy: @reecemorgan

Currently, the Sénat MM Pouch is priced at €910.

Image courtesy: @thebirkinboy

Dragon Diffusion – Rosanna

As we transition into fall, Dragon Diffusion’s hand-braided leather bags offer a stylish alternative to summer’s raffia. Embracing a zero-waste ethos, Dragon Diffusion’s on-demand production model addresses overconsumption and reflects a commitment to sustainability.

Image courtesy: @stefany.lgr9_

While not positioned within the ultra-luxurious category, Belgian brand Dragon Diffusion is becoming a go-to for stylish transitional handbags. Their designs, inspired by the iconic Bottega Veneta Intrecciato but at a more accessible price point, seamlessly blend timeless appeal with practical functionality. Each bag is adorned with an antiqued St. Christopher medal charm, honoring the patron saint of travelers and adding a touch of authenticity and wanderlust to the pieces.

Image courtesy: @stefany.lgr9_

Image courtesy: @stefany.lgr9_

Among the most sought-after styles is the chic Rosanna. Featuring a baguette-style silhouette and crafted from hand-woven buffalo leather, this unlined bag measures a practical 18 x 32 x 22.5 cm (7 x 12.5 x 5.5 inches). Its comfortable handle drop of 22.5 cm (8.8 inches) allows it to be worn easily over the shoulder, even with a winter coat. 

Retailing for €329 (£283/$374), the Rosanna is available in classic hues like Tan, Black, and White, as well as vibrant pops of Red, Orange, and Yellow, making it a versatile choice for any autumn wardrobe.

Image courtesy: @marie. schoeniger

Which of these handbags is capturing your fall style? Let me know your top pick. 

Published: September 19th, 2024
Updated: September 19th, 2024

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