The current trend in fashion suggests that The Girl has finally matured into The Woman, as seen through her wardrobe choices which include collarless jackets, ladylike skirts, delicate footwear, and modern brooches. Key to this new mood is the Goldilocks of handbags—the east-west bag—which bridges the gap between uptown and downtown. This style is not too refined or too fussy, making it versatile enough for both evening wear and daytime looks. Vogue’s favorite east-west bags include the Alaia Le Teckel shoulder bag, the Savette Symmetry bag, the Freja NYC Chrystie bag, the Saint Laurent Suzanne shoulder bag, the Jil Sander Cannolo shoulder bag, the Zara rigid shoulder bag, and the Magda Butrym Brigitte top handle bag.
Seasonal fashion changes often bring significant shifts in style trends, such as the move from skinny jeans to baggy, from going-out tops to oversized blazers, or from chunky sneakers to ballerina flats. While bag trends are not usually as divisive, they do make their mark. The east-west bag, characterized by thin, long straps positioned toward the bag’s middle and a stretched-out silhouette, has been a favorite of the street style set for several seasons. This trend continued on the 2025 runways with options ranging from Bally’s structured blue bag to Prada’s green top-handle design in the spring/summer collections.
The current season’s east-west bag options offer a departure from the subtle with designs from Loewe featuring pleating, Givenchy in black croc, Staud in suede, and Jil Sander in a striking cherry red color. The impact of these bold choices is evident in the fashion world, making a statement for those looking to stand out in their accessories. Some of the top picks for this trend include the Prada medium leather top handle bag, the Magda Butrym Brigitte leather top handle bag, the Loewe Paseo leather shoulder bag, the Saint Laurent Suzanne baguette shoulder bag, the Savette Symmetry Pouchette top-handle bag, and the Jil Sander Cannolo small leather shoulder bag.
The east-west bag trend showcases a combination of classic elegance with a modern touch, striking a balance between sophistication and versatility. The appeal of these bags lies in their ability to complement a variety of outfits, from casual daytime looks to more formal evening ensembles. With a range of styles and designs available, there is something to suit every taste and preference. This trend demonstrates how fashion can evolve and adapt to the changing tastes of consumers, offering fresh perspectives on classic accessories.
For The Woman who is looking to make a statement with her accessories, the east-west bag trend offers the perfect solution. With its blend of classic sophistication and contemporary flair, this style of bag is a versatile and chic addition to any wardrobe. Whether paired with a tailored suit for a professional look or with a flowing dress for a more casual vibe, the east-west bag adds a touch of elegance and refinement to any outfit. As fashion continues to evolve, the east-west bag remains a timeless and stylish choice for those looking to elevate their accessory game.
