Among the latter group was Pieter Mulier, who wrapped up his five-year tenure as creative director at Alaïa with a show that embodied "quiet perfectionism" in every sense. His approach to design has always been about creating clothes for real people, not just for an image.

Mulier's emphasis on understated elegance is reflected in his previous designs, including the Le Teckel bag, which he introduced during his time at Alaïa. This sleek, top-handle style has since become a staple of the fashion world and continues to be highly sought after, even as its designer moves on.

The influence of Mulier's streamlined aesthetic can be seen in many of the bags presented this season. The east-west design, which features a top handle and a slimline shape reminiscent of the Le Teckel, was a recurring theme across various runway shows. This trend is all about ease and practicality, perfect for everyday wear.

The Prada show featured 15 models, each wearing four layered looks that transformed as they walked the catwalk. The bags used in the presentation were an integral part of the overall aesthetic, with top handles serving as props to enhance the outfits rather than overpower them.

Chanel's autumn/winter 2026 collection featured a diverse range of bag styles, including oversized shoulder bags that made a bold statement on the runway.

In contrast, Saint Laurent's presentation opted for a more understated approach, with models sporting skinny envelopes as part of Anthony Vaccarello's carefully curated look.

The anniversary of the Le Smoking suit was marked at Saint Laurent, with clutch wallets accompanying the opening eight looks in a nod to this iconic style, which has been a cornerstone of the brand for 60 years.

This season saw minaudières take center stage as a key trend, with these luxurious purses making appearances at top fashion houses including Loewe and Dior, where they were often used to add an extra touch of glamour to outfits.

The U-Shape bag, also known as the half moon bag, emerged as a new silhouette this season, with designers such as Stella McCartney and Louis Vuitton incorporating it into their collections.

Fendi's iconic baguette bag remains a timeless classic, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality.

Its sleek design allows for ample space without overwhelming the senses, making it an ideal choice for everyday use.

Animal prints are dominating this season's handbag trends, with designers incorporating stripes and spots into various silhouettes.

From Saint Laurent's shoulder bags to Prada's pouch bags, leopard, cheetah, zebra, and fawn spots have become key motifs for fall and winter.

An animal print bag can add a touch of personality to any outfit, serving as a versatile neutral that complements a wide range of styles.

Crocodile-inspired patterns are also making a statement this season, with designers elevating simple shapes with high-gloss finishes.

Prada, Celine, Chanel, and Tory Burch have all featured croco in their collections, using real or embossed exotic leather to create a tactile effect.

To incorporate this trend into your wardrobe, pair a croco-patterned bag with a neutral or bold color for added luxury.

The texture's high-gloss finish adds an undeniable touch of sophistication.

Tassels are adding a touch of Art Deco glamour to modern-day dressing, as seen in designs from Bottega Veneta, Lanvin, and Ulla Johnson.

Inspired by the resurgence of this classic style, designers have incorporated tassels into handbags, creating event-worthy pieces.

To lean into this trend, opt for a tassel bag that adds a touch of elegance to your outfit.

The new season's bag trends are all about making a statement. One way to do this is by showcasing the details of your handbag, particularly when it comes to high-end designs from luxury brands like Hermès, Dior, and Prada.

Some bags have taken on a more rigid shape, with curved proportions that evoke a sense of sophistication. This style can be seen in designs from Miu Miu, Balenciaga, and Proenza Schouler, which blend the classic look of a doctor's bag with modern flair.

For a more casual yet still stylish option, consider Jonathan Anderson's Cigale design. Its everyday silhouette makes it perfect for taking from the office to an evening out, making it a great investment piece for any wardrobe.

As winter approaches, texture becomes an essential element in building your cold-weather wardrobe. Pairing a plush shearling bag with other winter essentials can create a cozy yet chic look that's perfect for the season. These bags come in various silhouettes, from pouches to totes, and can be seen at designers like Simone Rocha, Bottega Veneta, and Fendi.

Super shoulder bags have been scaled up slightly this season, offering more room for everyday items while still fitting snugly on the shoulder. Some designs, such as those from Chanel, Miu Miu, and Bottega Veneta, can even accommodate a laptop.

The curved half moon silhouette dominated runways and catwalks this season, appearing at Dior, Tod's, Polo, Stella, and Louis Vuitton among other top designers.

This versatile shape can be scaled up for daytime use or downsized for evening wear, offering a range of options to suit different occasions. Its slouchy design has become a staple of the latest bag trends, providing a relaxed yet stylish look that's hard to resist.

Playful Minaudière designs took center stage at recent fashion events, with designers getting creative with embellishments and accents. Some standout examples include Chanel's glossy pomegranate-adorned wristlet chain and Dior's frog prince-inspired dinner companion, adding a touch of whimsy to these exquisite evening bags.

The clutch has undergone a transformation in recent seasons, evolving from an exclusive evening accessory to a fashion favorite that can be worn anywhere, anytime. Designers such as Loewe, Bottega Veneta, and Stella McCartney have created supple, pillowy pouches that are perfect for both daytime outings and high-end events, cementing the clutch's status as a timeless fashion staple.

Vogue: https://www.vogue.com/article/fall-2026-handbag-trends

Among the contenders is Wes Gordon, who has been nominated for a second consecutive year as American womenswear designer of the year. This recognition comes as Carolina Herrera celebrates its 45th anniversary in fashion, marking four decades and a half of innovation and creativity.

Gordon joins an impressive roster of nominees that spans generations of American fashion talent. Catherine Holstein, the two-time winner from Khaite, is back for another chance at the award, along with former winner Michael Kors and two-time nominee Tory Burch. Rachel Scott from Diotima, who won in 2024, rounds out this talented lineup.

On the menswear side, Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osborne have earned a nomination for their relaunched Public School New York brand. The duo previously took home the award in 2014; with renewed vigor behind the brand, they may be looking to repeat their success.

The nominees for the top prize in menswear have been announced by the CFDA, with several familiar names vying for recognition. Todd Snyder, Thom Browne, Willy Chavarria, and Ralph Lauren are all contenders for their contributions to the resurgence of interest in menswear.

In accessories, The Row's Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have once again been nominated as American accessory designers of the year. Their consistent presence in this category is a testament to their enduring influence on fashion.

Other nominees for American accessory designer of the year include Ana Khouri, Sophie Buhai, Stuart Vevers for Coach, and Raul Lopez for Luar. Notably, Raul Lopez's brand has recently returned to the New York Fashion Week schedule after taking last season off.

The CFDA also recognizes emerging talent through its Google American Emerging Designer of the Year award. This year's nominees include Colleen Allen, Julian Louie for Aubero, and Emily Dawn Long, Julia Ferentinos of Juju Vera, and Zane Li of Lii, who recently won the 2026 Karl Lagerfeld Prize at the LVMH Prize in Paris.

The CFDA has announced its nominees and honorees for this year's awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the fashion industry. Among the recipients of special awards is Linda Fargo, who will receive the Founder's Award in honor of Eleanor Lambert.

Fargo will be joined by other notable figures, including Eva Chen, who will accept the Media Award in honor of Eugenia Sheppard, and photographers Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, selected as this year’s Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award recipients. The Isabel Toledo Board of Directors’ Tribute will also be presented to Susan Cianciolo.

The Innovation Award, presented by Amazon Fashion and Demi Moore, will recognize one individual's innovative spirit and contributions to the industry. Meanwhile, Tory Burch has been selected for the Positive Change Award, acknowledging her efforts to make a positive impact on fashion.

This year's ceremony will also honor Peter Marino with the Fashion Icon Award, recognizing his work as an architect responsible for creating sleek and chic retail spaces for top brands, as well as his distinctive personal style.

Vogue: https://www.vogue.com/article/the-2026-cfda-nominees-and-honorees-are-in-anthony-vaccarello-named-international-designer-of-the-year

Juicy shades of grape, raspberry, and cranberry are making their mark on both fall/winter 2026 collections and spring/summer 2027 designs, adding a pop of color to an otherwise dull palette. At Eckhaus Latta, designers opted for simple '90s-inspired silhouettes in deep purply red hues, which were elevated by the use of luminous layers, intentional wrinkles, and a subtle sheen.

Tory Burch also made a statement with its grape-colored suits and brocade coats, showcasing the versatility of berry tones. According to Sara Maggioni, head of womenswear at WGSN, these darker shades of red, purple, and blue are gaining importance across various platforms, from fashion and interiors to digital experiences.

The trend of embracing darkness is gaining momentum in various industries, including fashion and interiors. As part of this movement, the definition of dark colors is expanding to include richer, tinted shades beyond traditional black. Berry tones are taking center stage in this shift, with a focus on deeper, more saturated hues.

To incorporate this trend into your wardrobe, consider replacing classic black staples with bold berry-colored alternatives. Instead of reaching for a basic black puffer jacket, opt for a statement-making coat in a deep purple or red tone. Similarly, swap out your everyday work bag for a colorful clutch or add a pop of color with accessories like a silk scarf or pendant necklace.

Berry tones are appealing because they bring vibrancy to the wardrobe while retaining the timelessness and investment value associated with black. For a more versatile approach, try pairing a deep purple biker jacket or longer coat with neutral-colored bottoms for a chic, balanced look.

Berry tones are dominating fashion trends for 2026, and one way to make an instant impact is by wearing a maxi dress in a vibrant cherry red or deep blueberry hue.

Purple is at the forefront of this trend, with various shades available to suit different styles and preferences. For a more striking look, consider combining all the colors of the berry rainbow, purple, blue, red, and pink, for a harmonious yet eye-catching ensemble.

Elle: https://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/a74242778/how-to-style-berry-runway-trend-2026-outfits/

These hero items are distinct from previous logomania trends, which focused on logos and branding, and also differ from the eccentric styles of the Man Repeller era. Instead, they represent a new way of signaling one's fashion sense in a more digitally savvy age, where a single detail can speak volumes about one's style.

According to industry insiders, this trend is part of a larger shift away from quiet luxury, which was discussed extensively over the summer but has since been put to rest by vibrant menswear collections. Meanwhile, there has been growing interest in statement pieces as a way to express oneself through fashion.

The return of hero items can be traced back to Dario Vitale's 2023 collection for Versace, where rumpled and sensual silhouettes were the standout feature. Industry expert Chloe King notes that Vitale's pencil skirts and shoes were particularly notable at the time, and have since influenced the current trend towards bold and colorful statement pieces.

The fashion industry is witnessing a shift away from perfection and predictability in favor of individuality, according to designer Tory Burch.

Tory Burch's pierced shoes, which debuted in spring 2023, have become one of the brand's most recognizable and popular items, continuing to attract attention long after their initial release.

Dries Van Noten is also embracing this trend towards singularity, as evident from his recent show. Customers are actively seeking out specific pieces that reflect their unique style, a departure from the more general appeal of previous seasons.

Google trends data supports this shift, showing significant increases in searches for statement accessories such as belts and necklaces. Searches for these items have surged by 350% and 250% respectively, highlighting their growing popularity among consumers.

The demand for statement items continues to rise, with vintage Prada skirts in high demand as consumers look to recreate the magic of the Spring 2027 collections.

As a result, secondhand marketplaces like The RealReal and eBay are seeing an uptick in queries for these specific items, highlighting their growing popularity among fashion enthusiasts.

The challenge lies in finding unique statement shoes, such as Prada's perforated pumps or Jil Sander's curved heels, which are often difficult to come by on the resale market.

Accessories have become a key focus point as consumers seek to complete their looks with these iconic items.

The impact of statement pieces has been pronounced in this season's fashion collections. Michael Rider's designs at Celine have captured widespread attention, with fans on TikTok recreating the brand's iconic cummerbunds from the recent men's runway show.

As a result, certain items such as ultra-low kitten heels and specific colors of luggage pouches have become highly sought after, often leading to salesperson advice to hide these popular pieces from customers. Street style trends suggest that people are indeed wearing their coveted Celine items in everyday life, blurring the line between special occasion wear and casual attire.

Vogue: https://www.vogue.com/article/i-need-a-hero-how-statement-items-ruled-the-spring-2027-collections

At the forefront of this trend is the Ionic Body Dry Brush from Tronque, a premium dry brushing tool that is set to become a staple in many skin care routines.

For those looking for a stylish accessory, cashmere socks are always a safe bet, but why not take it up a notch with luxurious materials like cashmere?

The It's Lit LED Gua Sha is another innovative product that combines cutting-edge technology with traditional techniques to promote lymphatic drainage and reduce facial puffiness.

Meanwhile, everyday essentials like wallets can be elevated with sophisticated designs such as the Romy Flat Card Case from Tory Burch.

Gifting a candle can be a redundant gesture, but selecting one from a high-end fragrance brand like Jo Malone elevates the gift to new heights. The candles' long-lasting scent is an added bonus, ensuring that the recipient enjoys the fragrance for a considerable amount of time.

A rose quartz crystal eye mask is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves a practical purpose. Leaving it in the fridge overnight allows the user to wake up with a refreshed face, making it an ideal addition to any skincare routine.

A facial mist is a staple that can be used as a finishing touch to complete one's skin care regimen. Luxury brands like Augustinus Bader offer high-quality products that leave the skin feeling hydrated and revitalized, setting them apart from more affordable alternatives.

For travelers or those with extensive skincare collections, a vanity case provides an elegant way to store essential items on their countertop. This particular product is designed for convenience and style, making it a desirable addition to any bathroom.

A deep soak in a honey bath oil can be incredibly rejuvenating, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. Laura Mercier's offering boasts a light vanilla scent that complements the relaxing experience of a warm bath perfectly.

The packaging of many luxury gifts often gets overlooked, but it's an essential part of the overall experience. A beautifully designed compact can elevate even the most basic grooming routine into a high-end affair.

A necklace from Lovers and Friends is an example of how simplicity can be used to make a statement in jewelry. The tassel design adds a touch of elegance without being too ostentatious, making it perfect for those who prefer understated luxury.

The Resonance Gemstone Hoop Earrings are another great option for adding some glamour to the recipient's wardrobe. With their gemstone embellishments, these earrings are sure to turn heads and make any outfit look more luxurious.

A good skin day is a gift in itself, and the Daily Moisture Facial Moisturizer from SkinCeuticals is just that, a lavish present for anyone looking to bring some luxury into their skincare routine.

Elle: https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/g69181282/quiet-luxury-gifts-under-100/