A friend inquired about the handbag color trends that will be popular this winter and in the future, so I shared these essential styles with her.

      If you browse through my wish list on the Net-a-Porter app, you'll find it serves as a collection of all the handbags I've admired over the past few seasons. The Alaïa Le Teckel has been a staple, accompanied by Khaite’s Simona snake print design and, of course, a few recent additions from Loewe. Although they all share a tendency towards impractical sizes (as I prefer small bags), my main dilemma lies in choosing a color. This uncertainty is why they often remain saved rather than making it onto my arm. Much like picking a new nail polish at the salon, selecting a color for a new bag feels like one of the toughest choices to make. Since I tend to avoid these decisions, I wanted to gather some necessary inspiration from the autumn/winter 2025 runways to finally pick a new bag. With my Polène style—the mid-priced bag I’ve relied on for years—getting a bit worn from daily use, I think it’s time for a change. While handbag styles are largely a matter of personal taste (as I tend to favor whimsical little bags that fit hardly anything rather than functional totes), handbag trends can indeed be defined by color. Leading the pack are warm chestnut browns showcased by Prada, Fendi, and Gabriela Hearst. This shade, lighter than the deep chocolate tones we've seen recently, looks best in suede according to these designers. If you're into bolder accessories, Chanel has championed vibrant red, while Fendi keeps the trend of baby blue bags alive through winter. We may not all agree on the ideal size or shape of new season bags, but I’m certain we can all concur these 7 colors will dominate winter outfits this season.

      **Handbag Color Trends to Note for Winter 2025:**

      1. **Warm Chestnut**

       *Style Notes*: When Prada, Fendi, and Gabriela Hearst all endorse the same hue, it's wise to pay attention. Warm chestnut was a standout in the bag category across all runways, appearing not only in shade but also in the same material: suede. This season, investing in a light brown, buttery-soft bag will ensure you're in line with one of the key accessory trends.

       *Shop the Trend*:

       - **ALAÏA**: East West Nubuck Tote - Perfect for big bag enthusiasts.

       - **Anthropologie**: Checkerboard Leather Hobo Bag - The winter twist on the woven bag.

       - **& Other Stories**: Eyelet-Embellished Suede Bag - I adore the bohemian feel of this one.

      2. **Baby Blue**

       *Style Notes*: Yes, pastels can be for winter! Baby blue was seen at Prada, Versace, and Acne Studios for SS25, with Fendi continuing the affection for this sweet shade. Surprisingly, this light blue will pair beautifully with chocolate brown, grey, and pink—trust me.

       *Shop the Trend*:

       - **BOTTEGA VENETA**: Pinacoteca Small Intrecciato Leather Tote

       - **Charles & Keith**: Hazel Bow Elongated Trapeze Shoulder Bag - The structured silhouette gives it a premium look.

       - **Polène**: Numéro Dix Crocodile Nubuck Polar - I own this in black and wear it frequently.

       - **COACH**: Brooklyn 28 Leather Shoulder Bag - A sophisticated upgrade for your work bag.

      3. **Glossy Oxblood**

       *Style Notes*: Oxblood has been popular for several seasons and is making an even stronger statement this winter. This color warms up wardrobes effortlessly—update your large work bag (as showcased by Victoria Beckham) or simply add a burgundy bag to a monochromatic outfit for an unbeatable look.

       *Shop the Trend*:

       - **COS**: Cavatelli Clutch Bag - I envision this for party season with some sequins.

       - **ZARA**: Extended Leather Bag Limited Edition - Perfect with a kilt skirt and cable knit sweater.

       - **Demellier**: Demellier Medium Suede New York Tote Bag - It’s no surprise that fashion editors adore this New York tote by DeMellier.

      4. **Sleek Snake**

       *Style Notes*: Though technically not a color, snake print is among my favorite handbag trends, so I had to include it. Gabriela Hearst, Khaite, and Tod’s integrated this print into their AW25 collections, and I plan to follow suit—starting with a bag that pairs well with ecru jeans and a grey cable-knit sweater.

       *Shop the Trend*:

       - **VERAFIED**: Vera Clutch Shoulder Bag - A mid-range bag brand worth noting.

       - **KHAITE