Luxury Handbags – Trends for Summer 2024

Handbags have long been more than simply a practical accessory, and from the runways of Paris to the streets of London, designers continue to push the boundaries of creativity, reimagining classic silhouettes and embracing new technologies to redefine the art of handbag design. Every stitch, every detail and every design choice tells a story of craftsmanship, creativity and contemporary chic, and the leading luxury handbag stories for this summer are no exception.

Natural fibres

Crochet, raffia and woven bags are being seen on the finest arms this summer. From The Row’s woven basket bag to the Saint Laurent raffia camera bag to Gabriela Hearst’s netted tote, these summery designs with a 70s swing are making a natural comeback. See also: Tod’s, Carven and Chanel.

Compact silhouettes

Small and dainty, neat and petite, the teeny tiny statement handbag will enjoy a summer moment this year. Classics like Chanel’s classic 11.12 mini handbag – in all shades and fabrics – or Loewe’s minimalist Pebble Mini are proving a small and sweet sartorial hit for the fashion-conscious.

Oversized carryalls

Oversized is always big news these days, especially when it comes to bags. Generous leather totes were recently sent down the runway overspilling with stuff – a change of shoes, a spare shirt, rolled-up newspapers… – Bottega Veneta featured roomy leather gym bags, and giant Duffel bags by Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Mulberry proved the practical can also be beautiful.

Embossed and embellished

The quiet luxury trend continues, but all eyes are also on handbags that shimmer and shine with crystals, sparkles and lots of gold this season. Designers have been going to town adding adornments and sparkles, with a tote bag from Schiaparelli wowing with a gold wristwatch, gold chain and charm bracelet embellishment, and 16Arlington’s sequinned clutch bags catching the eye of bijoux women everywhere. Embossed leather, too, like the Ferragamo croc-effect shoulder bag, is huge for summer 2024.

Chain reaction

Gold and silver chains, resembling necklaces, are to be seen hanging from the handles of bags from Tom Ford, Louis Vuitton and Givenchy, this season, with Loewe’s iconic squeeze bag displaying a gold chain handle, too. And disco-gold chain straps, evoking belts from Studio 54 in the 70s, from designer Michael Kors, are joining Bottega Veneta’s iconic Blazy, still a classic and featuring a metallic ‘sardine’ handle.

Pushing the envelope

Tom Ford is a key instigator of the discrete envelope clutch: streamlined, chic, simple, elegant – and big enough to hold essentials. Max Mara, Dries Van Noten and Chloe are also pushing the envelope this season.

The season for protecting your designer handbags

As much as we covet and treasure our luxury handbags, it is an unfortunate reality that re-selling stolen designer bags can fetch a hefty sum on the black market, making them attractive targets for thieves. Unlike other stolen items, handbags are relatively easy to sell quickly and discreetly, and their size and weight makes them prime for theft.

Handbag theft often occurs in crowded places like shopping malls, cafes and on public transport, where perpetrators can blend in easily and disappear swiftly. Thieves have become more sophisticated, using techniques such as distraction tactics and electronic skimming devices to steal handbags.

While the surge in handbag theft may seem daunting, there are steps we can take to mitigate the risk and protect ourselves:

• Stay vigilant

Remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places. Keep a close eye on your handbag, and avoid leaving it unattended, even for a moment.

• Invest in security features

Consider investing in handbags with built-in security features such as slash-resistant straps, RFID-blocking pockets and tamper-proof zips.

• Minimise exposure

Avoid flaunting expensive handbags in public, especially in areas with high crime rates.

• Be prepared

In the unfortunate event of theft, be prepared by keeping a record of your handbag’s serial number brand, and any distinguishing features. This information can aid the police in recovering stolen items.

• Stay connected

Use technology to your advantage by installing tracking apps on your smartphone or investing in smart handbags equipped with GPS tracking capabilities. These tools can help you locate your handbag in case it goes missing.

• Insure your beloved handbags!

Personally designed insurance solutions from Ascend Executive

Ascend Executive offers unparalleled assurance for your most cherished possessions, including your luxury handbags. Our bespoke insurance programme transcends the ordinary, and our meticulous attention to detail will help you safeguard the things you value most, from handbags to jewellery to designer clothing.

Whatever you carry this season, Ascend Executive has tailored insurance to protect it.

Call Ascend Executive today on 01245 449060 or email info@ascendbroking.co.uk

Other blogs which may be of interest:

Dazzling trends – Designer jewellery in 2024

Mourning rings – Reviving tradition in modern jewellery trends

Any questions? Please don’t hesitate to contact one of our team.

Amy.English@ascendbroking.co.uk | Telephone: 01245 449 060