9 bag labels to know now

There is a lot to consider when choosing a new bag – not only do you want something that will add a fashion-forward edge to your look, but there are practical elements to consider, too. Will it complement with the pieces in your day-to-day wardrobe and fit all of your essentials? If you’re looking for a super-hot seasonal update, a bamboo or wooden beaded bag is the way to go, and it works beautifully with everything from blue denim to floral midi dresses. For a more perennial style, opt for versatile neutral shades in classic, ladylike shapes. And if that isn’t standout enough for you, try mock-croc – wear with wide-leg jeans, block-heel boots and a trench coat to amp up the retro connotations.

Not many new brands could elicit the same levels of excitement as the aptly named Cult Gaia did when it launched, but the Los Angeles-based label garnered social media fame thanks to its coveted crescent-shaped ‘Ark’ bag. This season’s new ‘Zaha’ clutch, which is inspired by the ‘Ark’ style and made from lightweight bamboo in a chic circular shape, is sure to reach the same sellout status. But it isn’t the only brand creating directional pieces from natural materials: Loeffler Randall’s ‘Lorna’ tote is made from rattan woven into a structural basket silhouette and lined with a gingham pouch that can be tied up to secure your belongings, while Rosantica’s handmade ‘Ruby’ bag is artfully crafted from wooden beads in an unusual spherical shape.

The forever-in-fashion neutral bag is one of those brilliantly seasonless accessories – it works just as well with blue denim in fall or an all-black outfit in the depths of winter as it does with light linen in spring and summer. At once timeless yet of-the-moment, Danse Lente and Hunting Season’s two-tone styles are both no-brainers. Alternatively, opt for Boyy’s boxy ‘Karl’ tote, with its instantly recognizable signature buckle detailing, to give your look a polished and modern edge.

If you haven’t done so already, then you’ll want to get your hands on a croc-effect handbag, which can currently be spotted on the arms of pretty much every street-style star you can think of. Perfectly in tune with this season’s ’70s mood, it’s an easy way to inject your look with a throwback vibe yet is understated enough that it doesn’t take away from the rest of your outfit. With their small yet sculptural silhouettes, both Staud’s ‘Alice’ tote and By Far’s ‘Celeste’ bag would make an ultra-cool accompaniment on days when you don’t need to pack too many items, while Wandler’s mid-sized ‘Luna’ style is the ideal everyday choice – not only does it look good, but the shoulder strap is adjustable and there’s a handy zipped pocket inside.