As we enter a new season, it’s high time for some fresh handbag inspiration. While burgundy hues, denim finishes, and a slew of other handbag trends are still going strong, one of the most intriguing phenomenons of the season keeps the focus on silhouette. Enter the east-west handbags: Small yet elongated and decidedly structured, it feels tailor-made for today’s it-girl, despite having been around since the 1950s (an incredibly chic instance of sartorial retrofuturism, if you ask us). Ahead, we detail all you need to know about the east-west handbag trend, including what makes it stand out, why it’s so popular, and 11 standout styles to try for yourself.
About the Trend
East-west handbags have small, dramatically horizontal silhouettes. Compared to other nostalgic, elongated styles like the ’90s baguette bag, this shape’s defining feature is a long, structured silhouette that extends to the side both “east” and “west” beyond its top handle or crossbody strap.
The earliest iterations of east-west bags debuted in the 1950s, with the elliptical style periodically experiencing a revival, such as in the early aughts. In an era when statement shapes, quiet luxury, and an endless hunger for the ’90s and Y2K trends are all at the center of fashion, it’s no wonder this design is now back in a major way. The bag has made a quiet yet powerful impact on street-style stars and celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Charli XCX.
An increasing amount of brands are now offering their takes, with many iterations integrating other trends as well. You’ll find east-west handbags in buzz-worthy colors (chocolate brown, anyone?), intriguing silhouettes, and eye-catching details like metal hardware and structured handles. While the structured, elongated shape of east-west bags ensures that most have enough space to hold the essentials on a casual day out, this isn’t meant to be an overly practical Mary Poppins bag: Instead, this design prioritizes the statement.
Our Favorite East-West Handbags to Shop
Instant East-West Handbags: Freja Mercer Bag
New York-based brand Freja never fails to be on top of the trends, so it’s no wonder that the label recently launched an east-west design. From the double-zip closure to the sculptural exterior to the interior slip pockets, everything about this bag serves to optimize both form and function.
Angular Wonder: Cult Gaia Arden Zip Leather Crossbody East-West Handbags
If your favorite part of the east-west bag concept is the duality, you’ll love the way this one angles subtly upwards towards each side. It makes the style feel like a true work of art, and you’re sure to get lots of compliments whenever you wear it out.
Mint Marvel: Marge Sherwood Bessette Shoulder East-West Handbags
Mint Green made a fashion comeback this year, and while its biggest impact so far has been on the red carpet, we could see it being one of the buzziest accessories colors heading into 2025. Embrace two trends at once with this Marge Sherwood design, which would look even sweeter with a few bag charms (or ornaments) giving it new life.
High-Maintenance East-West Handbags: Brandon Blackwood Vanity Purse
Always touching up your makeup on the go? This hard-sided east-west bag from Brandon Blackwood includes a mirror inside the top, so it’s never been easier to ensure your look is just how you want it.
Textural Delights East-West Handbags: DeMellier The New York Shoulder
Add extra intrigue to the already compelling east-west silhouette by opting for a bag in an eye-catching texture, such as the lizard-effect leather here. Gold hardware keeps everything feeling sophisticated enough for an important business lunch, yet cool enough for a night out.
Everything Is Romantic: Bottega Veneta East-West Arco Tote
In “Everything Is Romantic” from the Brat album, Charli XCX sings about spending time in Sorrento, where—you guessed it—Pompeii is in the distance to the east, and Capri is in the distance to the west. Pay the subtlest and most niche of tributes by opting for an east-west bag in a green hue. This Bottega Veneta mini tote is muted enough to act as a neutral, and the signature intrecciato weave keeps things feeling fresh.
Winter Whites: Mango Double-Handle Bowling Bag
Need the perfect bag to pair with your holiday party ensemble or mob wife coat? This white style from Mango goes with almost everything while standing out against a dark winter wardrobe.
Elegant Oxblood: Parker Thatch East West Mimi
This east-west take on the burgundy handbag trend has a unique yet classic vibe thanks to its cognac-colored straps. This is a worthy style to consider if you’re looking for an old money aesthetic that would feel right at home in the English countryside.
Artful Keepsake: Andrea Iyamah Owa Wooden Clutch
Take the inherent structure of an east-west handbag to the next level with a wooden design. This Andrea Iyamah creation is sure to make a statement, both as street style and on display at home.
Cherry Chic: Khaite Simona Shoulder Bag
Don’t already have a bold red handbag in your collection? Consider investing in this one from Khaite: The vivid hue only adds main-character energy to the statement-making silhouette.
Mini Moment: Alaïa Le Teckel Small Shoulder Bag
One of the most viral east-west handbag styles so far, this Alaïa design has an ultra-tiny profile, but a massive sartorial impact. Available in black, white, and red, this silhouette is a modern classic for completing any trend-oriented look.
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