I'm not blowing any minds when I say that 2023 and 2024 have seen us turn away from the classic black leather bag to a more bohemian, casual accessory – the brown bag. Leather, suede intrecciato or nylon, they're everywhere at the moment – and with the Miu Miu Aventure bag and The Row Margeaux at the top of luxury wish lists, the brown bag trend is only gaining inertia.
I for one, have been ready to die on the brown bag hill for a while now. The perfect 70s-inspired bohemian accessory, it still carries all the luxury and versatility of black bags, but with a distinctive edge. Still very much a neutral, they are an enduring and classic investment – and there are plenty of tones to choose from (whether you're drawn toward toffee-coloured suedes or deep and rich mahogany browns). And there's the added uniqueness in that brown leather often develops a unique patina as it ages, enhancing its character and beauty.
If you're looking to add one to your rotation, we've done some shopping around to find our selection of where to shop the best brown bags right now...
1. MIU MIU Suede Beau Bag in Cocoa Brown
2. COACH Empire Cryl 28 Bag in Maple
3. LOEWE Flamenco Purse Bucket bag in Mellow Nappa Lambskin
4. MARGE SHERWOOD Brown Mini Strap Bag
5. BOTTEGA VENETA Parachute Bag in Fondant
6. GANNI Bou Bag in Chocolate
7. CHYLAK Saddle Bag with Sculptural Seal in Glossy Brown
8. YU MEI Milly Leather Mini-Tote in Toffee
9. JACQUEMUS Brown Les Classiques 'Le petit Bambimou' Bag
10. FREJA NEW YORK Mini Chrystie Espresso
11. ST. AGNI Slim Woven Tote in Chocolate
12. STAND OIL Petite Oblong Bag in Rich Mahogany
13. STAUD Vivi Leather-Trimmed Suede Shoulder Bag
14. BRIE LEON Harlow Slouch Baguette in Chocolate
15. ACNE STUDIOS Multipocket Leather Shoulder Bag
16. DIOR Saddle Bag in Brown
17. KIKO KOSTADINOV Brown Trivia Bag
Want to continue shopping? Here's our roundup of the most popular designer bags to shop in 2024.
Feature images: one, two, three.
Featured products are selected editorially. Our opinions are our own. Occasionally, we may receive a standard affiliate partner fee if you make a purchase using the links we feature.