Pieter Mulier presents final collection at Alaïa

The fall/winter 2026 season was marked by a return to normalcy after the influx of new designer debuts that dominated the spring/summer shows. This time around, only a handful of fresh faces presented their first collections, while more established designers focused on showcasing their sophomore efforts.

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.