Spring 2019 Bag Trends: The Must-Have Styles and Fresh Details

Discover the chicest spring 2019 bag trends, from micro minis and animal prints to structured shapes, bold lanyards, and retro twists—a bag for every personality.

By Medha deb
Created on

Fashion month delivered an avalanche of inspiration for your wardrobe, but nowhere is the new season’s energy more vibrantly apparent than in the dynamic world of handbags. Spring 2019’s bag trends blend practicality, playfulness, and statement-making flair. Whether you want to elevate your everyday look or hunt for a conversation piece, these are the essential styles, textures, and details to watch—and wear—this spring.

Table of Bag Trends for Spring 2019

TrendMain FeaturesStyle Highlights
Chain LanyardsMetal chains, practicality, statement hardwareSling crossbodies, metallic details
Leather LanyardsStriped/leather straps, hands-free designUtility-meets-style, colorful leathers
Snakeskin PrintAnimal textures, bold colorwaysMini bags, clutches, color-pop prints
Tiny BagsMiniature shape, playful scaleMicro crossbodies, belt bags
Pop ColorsBright shades, eye-catching finishesNeon totes, pastel satchels, colorblock
Belt BagsHands-free, adjustable beltsSleek leathers, utility flair
Structured ShapesBoxy silhouettes, architectural formsTop-handle satchels, geometric clutches
Crochet & Woven TexturesNatural materials, boho vibesShopper totes, bucket bags
Transparent DetailsSee-through PVC/acrylic, modern edgesClear totes, jelly purses
Fringe & FeathersWhimsical trims, show-stopping detailsEvening bags, playful day purses
Baguette & Throwback Bags’90s nostalgia, shoulder-slungBaguette bags, logo remakes

Chain Lanyards: Hardware Takes Center Stage

Metal chains replace classic straps, offering both shine and strength. These chain straps, sometimes ultra-chunky and at other times elegantly fine, transform the most basic silhouettes into eye-catching arm candy. The look strikes a balance between function and high-voltage glamour.

  • Pair with both day and night looks for a futuristic twist.
  • Look for unexpected color coatings—think gold, blackened brass, or even resinized chain links for added personality.

Leather Lanyards: Sleek and Sporty Utility

Leather-wrapped lanyards are a chic evolution of the athletic-inspired trend. Adjustable, sometimes featuring bold color stripes or contrasting whipstitching, these straps free up your hands without sacrificing style. They’re a subtle nod to the ongoing sporty luxury movement sweeping accessories.

  • Perfect for everyday errands or weekend brunch.
  • Works beautifully in bright primary colors for spring or in classic neutrals for lasting appeal.

Snakeskin Print: Animal Instincts

Animal print reigns again this season, and snakeskin is the undisputed leader. From neon-dyed python to traditional earth tones, these textures add a luxe edge to otherwise minimalist shapes.

  • Pair a snakeskin mini bag with monochrome outfits for standout contrast.
  • Try bold colorways like turquoise, pink, or lime-green for Instagram-worthy moments.

Micro Mini Bags: The Smaller, the Better

Who needs more than keys and a lip balm? Tiny bags are everywhere, delivering playful scale and unexpected whimsy. While they’re not made for carrying much, they compensate in the style department and encourage capsule living.

  • Wear crossbody, as a necklace, or even stacked in multiples for a maximalist take.
  • Choose fun shapes: coins, hearts, or boxes.

Pop Colors: Bold, Bright, and Unapologetic

This season is an invitation to ditch neutrals (at least for your bag) in favor of shocking brights and vivid hues. Electric blues, canary yellows, and hot pinks inject an instant energy boost to any ensemble.

  • Break up an all-black look with one powerful pop of color.
  • Shop for color-blocked bags combining multiple brights in one design.

Belt Bags: Cinched and Convenient

No longer a mere ’90s throwback, belt bags (or modern fanny packs) are sleeker, softer, and often sculptural. Worn at the waist, sling-style crossbody, or even low on the hips, these strike a balance between utility and street-style appeal.

  • Look for luxe materials like buttery leather or patterned canvas.
  • Embellishments: consider bold hardware or branded buckles.

Structured Bags: Clean Lines and Architectural Drama

Goodbye to shapeless totes—this spring, structured silhouettes and precisely constructed shapes come to the fore. Inspired by classic trunks, cubes, and boxes, these bags retain their crisp outline and exude sophisticated confidence.

  • Top handle is the new must-have grip for day-to-night flexibility.
  • Pair with tailored or oversized blazers for maximum effect.

Crochet, Knits, and Woven Textures

Crocheted bags and nubbly, handwoven textures add a summery, handcrafted touch to spring accessorizing. Raffia, straw, and macramé details recall beach getaways and sunlit weekends yet remain city-cool thanks to polished shapes.

  • Great for casual outings and vacations alike.
  • Mix with crisp cotton dresses or denim for a play of soft vs. structured.

See-Through Chic: Transparent and Acrylic Bags

Transparent PVC, Lucite, and acrylic bags continue their ascent. Whether you opt for a completely clear tote or a small crossbody with plexi-paneling, these pieces are all about revealing your (organizational) secrets and putting your favorite purse contents on display.

  • Layer with colorful pouches inside to customize the look.
  • Works for festivals, beach days, and fashion-forward city outfits.

Fringe, Plumes, and Playful Details

Fringed trims and dramatic feathers are back this spring, delivering movement and a touch of whimsy. Often reserved for the after-dark scene, many designers now pair these flamboyant details with boxy daytime bags for an unexpected twist.

  • Opt for allover fringe for a statement or look for bags with a single feathered accent if you want a subtler touch.
  • Perfect for parties, dressy occasions, or adding fun to off-duty denim-and-tee combos.

Baguette Bags and Vintage-Inspired Throwbacks

Spring 2019 sees a strong resurgence of ’90s-inspired baguette bags and logo-heavy heritage designs. Think slim, shoulder-slung silhouettes, nostalgic detailing, and a return to the iconic shapes made famous by style icons of that decade.

  • Wear high and tight under the arm, styled with slip dresses or oversized blazers.
  • Seek out new remakes of classic colors and patterns for a hit of vintage charm.

How to Choose the Right Bag Trend for You

With choices ranging from micro-minis to oversized carryalls, this season’s bag trends offer something for every mood and lifestyle. Consider your daily needs but don’t be afraid to experiment with a bold color or an unexpected silhouette. Assess quality and practicality but remember: handbags are, above all, the ultimate fashion playground.

  • For minimalists: Try a structured box bag in a neutral or pastel.
  • For maximalists: Go for color, fringe, animal print, or combine them all at once!
  • For practical shoppers: Belt bags, lanyard crossbodies, or woven totes balance style with utility.
  • For risk-takers: Opt for a see-through acrylic or a micro mini for maximum impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which spring 2019 bag trend is the most versatile for everyday use?

A: Structured bags and leather lanyard crossbodies tend to blend seamlessly with a range of outfits, offering both convenience and style for busy routines.

Q: Are tiny bags actually practical?

A: While micro mini bags aren’t spacious, they excel as statement-makers or event accessories. For daily needs, consider pairing with a larger tote or using them for essentials only.

Q: Is the snakeskin print trend here to stay?

A: Animal prints, especially snakeskin, cycle in and out but are a perennial favorite. Choose subtle colorways for longevity, or go bold if you love trying fresh looks every season.

Q: What’s the best way to style a belt bag for spring?

A: Try cinching a flowy dress, oversized blazer, or high-waist skirt with a belt bag to create a shapely silhouette, or wear it crossbody with casual separates for off-duty cool.

Q: Can woven or crochet bags be worn for work, or are they only for weekends?

A: Woven or crocheted bags can look polished in structured shapes and neutral hues, making them appropriate for creative office environments, lunches, or casual Friday settings.

Style Secrets: Making the Trends Work for You

  • Mix textures: Pair snakeskin or high-gloss PVC with soft cottons or crisp linen.
  • Double up: Layer a tiny crossbody with a larger tote in contrasting colors.
  • Accessorize your accessory: Tie a silk scarf or add a playful keychain to transform a simple bag.
  • Update classics: Choose a familiar silhouette in an unexpected material, like a box bag in neon or a baguette in buttery suede.

Spring 2019 Bag Edit: The Ultimate Shopping List

  • Chain-strap crossbody in metallic or resinized finish
  • Leather lanyard tote in a vibrant hue
  • Python-printed clutch or bucket bag
  • Micro mini “charm” bag—wear it as jewelry or a statement piece
  • Color-blocked satchel for a pop of brightness
  • Modern belt bag with a structured silhouette
  • Architectural box bag with a top handle
  • Crochet or raffia shoulder bag for summer days
  • Transparent shopper with color pouch insert
  • Fringed evening bag for after-dark events
  • ’90s baguette or logo bag with heritage appeal

Spring 2019’s bag trends prove there’s no single right answer for chic. Whether you crave drama, practicality, nostalgia, or freshness, the right accessory waits to reinvent your look and spark—at least—a season’s worth of conversation.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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