Only the Classics: Here Are the 7 Essential It Bags for Winter 2025

      At Who What Wear UK, we understand the significance of carefully considering your next designer handbag purchase. A handbag is an investment, something you'll likely carry every day and hopefully for many years. With a higher cost than most wardrobe items, a luxury handbag comes with elevated expectations, and it should also embody a timeless quality. In evaluating which handbags are genuinely making an impact, I turn to today's fashionable influencers. Style icons like Alexa Chung, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Sienna Miller, along with online sensations such as Elsa Hosk, Neelam Gill, and Annabel Rosendahl, recognize the importance of a great handbag and are frequently seen with their favorites.

      I've been monitoring handbag trends for a while and have pinpointed seven key styles from our preferred luxury brands that are leading the pack. From vintage-inspired designs from Balenciaga, Gucci, and Chloé to emerging cult classics from The Row, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Prada, there are several front-runners that both celebrities and influencers are embracing and investing in right now.

      From my perspective as a fashion editor, the most striking aspect of these handbag trends is their lack of overt trendiness. These bags embrace understated silhouettes, muted color schemes, luxurious suede and leather materials, and heirloom-like hardware, skillfully balancing classic aesthetics with modern appeal. Exactly what those with a discerning taste are seeking, wouldn't you agree?

      Scroll down to discover and shop the seven handbags that have earned It-bag status this winter.

      1. **Bottega Veneta Andiamo Chain**

       Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is often seen carrying the Bottega Veneta Andiamo bag. Style Notes: With celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Dakota Johnson, Hailey Bieber, and Jacob Elordi all spotted with this bag, it has undoubtedly achieved cult status. Launched in 2023 and continuously gaining popularity, the Andiamo has become a staple for many style-conscious shoppers. Featuring Bottega Veneta's renowned intrecciato technique and a knotted metal emblem, its distinct design is unmistakable. Available in various shapes, including a clutch and east-west options, the Chain style is perfect for those wanting versatility, as it can be worn on the shoulder or crossbody. This softly structured tote comes in small, medium, and large sizes—ideal for enhancing any look with a touch of luxury.

       Shop the Bottega Veneta Andiamo Chain:

       - **Bottega Veneta**: Small Andiamo Chain in Dark Barolo – this rich cherry shade is perfect for winter.

       - **Bottega Veneta**: Small Andiamo Chain in Black – a classic black leather option with gold hardware.

       - **Bottega Veneta**: Andiamo in Mud – a lovely khaki suede version of the Andiamo.

      2. **Saint Laurent Le 5 À 7 Bea**

       Hailey Bieber is seen with the Saint Laurent Le 5 À 7 Bea. Style Notes: For a bag that embodies easy elegance and a 'throw it over your shoulder' vibe, look no further than Saint Laurent. The Le 5 À 7 Bea tote consistently sells out, and it’s not hard to see why; it's beloved by stars like Hailey Bieber, Zoë Kravitz, Laura Harrier, and supermodel Kate Moss in both leopard and classic black variations. This winter, the Le 5 À 7 Bea is available in burgundy pony hair and rich merlot leather, alongside cooler suede options. The bag features the distinctive YSL Cassandre logo prominently, and an inner clip allows for adjusting the bag's shape. It's perfect for casual outings and can comfortably accommodate your daily essentials.

       Shop the Saint Laurent Le 5 À 7 Bea:

       - **Saint Laurent**: Le 5 À 7 Bea in Suede – a timeless soft tan suede option.

       - **Saint Laurent**: Le 5 À 7 Bea in Suede – a luxurious chocolate-brown variant.

       - **Saint Laurent**: Le 5 À 7 Bea in Grained Leather – nothing beats burgundy leather paired with gold hardware.

      3. **Gucci Giglio**

       Sienna Miller carries a Gucci Giglio Large Tote Bag. Style Notes: First shown at the Gucci Cruise 2026 show in Florence in May, the Giglio bag has already garnered attention from stars like Sienna Miller, Suki Waterhouse, and Emily Ratajkowski. Reflecting the brand's Italian heritage, the Giglio features an all-over interlocking double-G monogram and classic red and green webbing, along with a practical pouch for smaller items. It's a classic shopper design, with a generous slouchy silhouette perfect for everyday errands, easily paired with jeans, vintage jackets, and loafers. While many It-girls favor the canvas version, the suede and leather iterations are also gaining popularity.