Chanel! Gucci! The Row! These are the must-have bags that celebrities are really sporting in 2026.

      I’m unafraid to state it: the role of a stylish handbag in enhancing an outfit is crucial. While scrolling through social media daily, when I come across a particularly fashionable individual, my initial thought often isn’t about her jeans or shoes (though occasionally it might be), but rather: "what bag is that?" So, what attributes contribute to the significance of an It bag? First and foremost, there's the brand. The most coveted bags usually originate from luxury fashion houses celebrated for their decades of exceptional craftsmanship. Brands like Bottega Veneta, The Row, and Chanel have come to represent this status among fashion aficionados and celebrities alike. Next, we examine the silhouettes and detailing. Is the bag practical, offering plenty of space and internal pockets, or more of a bold, statement piece? When considering the Birkin or Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7, it's the distinctive design that renders these bags instantly recognizable. Lastly, we must consider the brand's "clout." In a world heavily influenced by social media, an It bag's popularity is dictated by how social media portrays it. A prime example is the excitement surrounding Matthieu Blazy's spring/summer Chanel collection, where demand has surged online and subsequently impacted sales in stores.

      Since the beginning of 2026, numerous contenders have emerged in the race for the It bag of the year. Consider the Saint Laurent Mombas or Chanel’s equally beloved Large Tote and Small Flap bags (both with undeniable staying power). These styles have garnered attention from some of the most fashionable celebrities, highlighting a clear selection of the enduring favorites. These bags are capable of weathering shifting trend cycles, ensuring they remain in your collection for years, rather than ending up on resale websites at season's end. Interested to discover which bags made the list? Keep reading to explore the 5 most coveted It bags of 2026 and learn why they deserve a space in your wardrobe.

      1. Chanel Maxi Flap

      (Image credit: Courtesy of Chanel)

      Style Notes: From Hailey Bieber to Kylie Jenner, Blackpink’s Jennie, and Jane McFarland, the Editor-in-Chief of Who What Wear UK, the Chanel large tote has undoubtedly emerged as one of the most talked-about designer bags of 2026 so far. Part of the larger resurgence of sizable bags, it offers an impressively roomy interior, capable of holding all your essentials and more. Adorned with Chanel’s signature delicate gold hardware, it is instantly identifiable, but its distinguishing feature is its subtle simplicity, an understated quality that ensures its longevity. Spacious enough to carry your life yet exquisitely designed, it’s a bag you'll reach for year after year without it ever feeling outdated.

      Shop the Chanel Maxi Flap:

      I will be intensely envious if you manage to get one.

      Shop other Chanel Bags:

      - CHANEL Mini Classic Handbag

      A smart investment in designer bags.

      - Chanel Classic Double Flap Bag

      With their luxury goods diligently verified by authenticity experts, you can trust that these pieces are genuinely authentic.

      - Chanel Lambskin Quilted Crossbody Bag

      This quilted crossbody, complete with a stylish top handle in a vibrant blue, is perfect for making a statement.

      2. The Row Marlo Bag

      Style Notes: A round-up of It bags wouldn’t be complete without a design from The Row. Renowned for its exceptional quality and minimalist silhouettes, The Row has been a favorite among fashion aficionados and celebrities since 2005. Over the years, it has birthed numerous It bags, notably the discontinued Margaux. However, 2026 is all about the Marlo. Anticipating a revival of ‘90s nostalgia before it even began, the Marlo is like the more refined sibling of the Margaux. Medium-sized, featuring a top handle and a functional zip closure, it embodies a slouchy, relaxed elegance that only an Olsen could envision. Probably why Kendall Jenner adores hers so much.

      Shop the Marlo Bag:

      Available in black, ebony brown, white, and tan.

      Shop other The Row Bags:

      - The Row Terrasse Bauletto Bag

      One of The Row's more recent releases, the softly structured Terrasse has also made its way into Kendall Jenner's collection.

      Celebrities continue to embrace '90s bags for a nostalgic fix.

      - The Row Soft Margaux 15 Bag

      And just like that, the Margaux returns as if it never left!

      3. Prada Route

      Style Notes: I must confess, I was initially unsure about the Prada Route until I spotted Alexa Chung carrying it (and yes, the reigning queen of cool can make anything catch my eye). This cargo-style bag is a perfectly shaped rectangular top-handle bag, featuring a multitude of pockets inside and out, making it easy to store all your belongings. But what elevates it to the It list is its undeniable