In Defence of the Ludicrously Capacious Handbag
This fall, opt for an oversized bag that will fit your entire life, instead of just a no. 2 pencil.
Dear oversized bag ladies; we’re sorry we ever doubted you.
You were right — carrying a “ludicrously capacious” handbag to Logan Roy’s birthday was the correct decision (thank you, Succession!). Micro mini bags are massively overrated.
RELATED: In Succession, Did Tom Have the Most Important Style All Along?
The petite purses of 2022 promised a carefree lifestyle: All you needed was your phone, keys and cards, and the world was your oyster. After all the emotional baggage we collectively accumulated during the pandemic, the Russian-Ukraine war, wildfires, Selena Gomez/Hailey Bieber drama, etc., it was admittedly nice not to be weighed down by physical baggage. We could pretend our lives fit neatly into a six-inch Jacquemus Le Grand Chiquito.
But the dream was rarely a reality. It more often meant that we were rocking the girl claw — an evolutionary adaptation where women have acclimatized to not having pockets (or big enough purses) to hold their things, so they’re forced to balance it all in one hand.
Finally fed up with this ruse, designers and the general public are using you, oversized bag ladies, as their muses. Whether you call it jumbo, oversized or ludicrously capacious, this season’s new It bag is anything but small. Take your cue from this grey leather carryall from Ferragamo’s Fall 2023 collection and play with over-the-top proportions.
As for what to tote in it, think flats for the subway, a lunch pail and maybe even workout wear. After carrying this around, you can skip the bicep curls. Browse below for a few of our favourite oversized bag options.
Ferragamo Large Hobo
What it fits: The better question is, what doesn’t it fit?
When to use it: When you’re out and about for 12 hours and need everything from your laptop to hair straightener.
How to wear it: Between the size and its red colour, this oversized bag makes a statement. Keep it simple with jeans, a white button-down and black ballet flats.
Dior Book Tote
What it fits: The answer is in the name — books!
When to use it: Think chic day trip, refined picnic or a Rory Gilmore-inspired trip to the library.
How to wear it: Consider this embroidered pattern a neutral. Spice it up with some colour or go full monochromatic.
Burberry XL Chess Shoulder Bag
What it fits: Work day essentials.
When to use it: Commuting to and from the office.
How to wear it: Embrace the Y2K origins of the hobo bag and try pairing it with a knit top and cargo pants.
Rimowa Vertical Tote
What it fits: Passport, snacks, water and a pillow.
When to use it: Travelling.
How to wear it: Keep it comfy on the airplane and let this pink purse do the talking. Leggings, tank tops and oversized oxford shirts will never let you down.
Victoria Beckham Jumbo Chain Pouch
What it fits: Your OTT persona.
When to use it: For a fancy evening out (did someone say gala?).
How to wear it: An XL clutch doesn’t need much to make it shine. Think a slinky black slip dress with strappy heels.
Charles & Keith Denim Slouchy Tote
What it fits: A few groceries, some shampoo and anything else you pick up.
When to use it: Running errands.
How to wear it: Red, white and blue is always a winning colour combination. A white tee and red cardigan will make this denim dazzle.
Mango Seam Shopper
What it fits: Portable charger, your beverage of choice and a VIP backstage pass.
When to use it: Listening to live music.
How to wear it: There’s something a little rebellious about this oversized bag. Pair it with a graphic tee and leather jacket for a little extra oomph.
Sézane Gabin Bag
What it fits: Your entire skincare routine plus a change of underwear.
When to use it: For a romantic weekend getaway.
How to wear it: Pink and grey is one of our favourite colour combinations. Bonus: A flowy dress will easily take you from the car to a cozy cabin.
Banana Republic Oversized Vida Bag
What it fits: A pair of flats, makeup bag and change of clothes.
When to use it: Going out.
How to wear it: A green leather trench coat and tall boots are the perfect companion to this oversized bag for a night on the town.
YUHOCB Large Puffer Tote
What it fits: Running shoes, towel and extra deodorant.
When to use it: Going to and from the gym.
How to wear it: Chunky runners and a light puffer will help balance the proportions of this pillowy purse.
Mansur Gavriel Cloud Clutch
What it fits: All your Sex and the City memorabilia.
When to use it: A night out in New York or a fabulous dinner party with your friends.
How to wear it: Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw and go a bit wild with your styling. Don’t blame us if you suddenly get the urge to wear a bird hat.
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