The true display of status in 2026 isn’t about carrying a Birkin—it's about sporting your bag unbuckled and undone.

      As summer began to emerge, the market quickly became inundated with basket bags. This makes sense; after all, raffia totes and buckets are cheerful, seasonal items that signal the arrival of the season (alongside flip-flops and sunglasses). However, this summer, a luxury handbag trend is subtly gaining popularity that has my complete attention instead: undone handbags. Now that I’ve mentioned it, you’ll understand exactly what I mean, since many of the best bags from 2026 so far share this particular micro-detail. Buckles, belts, and zippers are intentionally left unfastened, revealing the bag's contents to the onlooker (or at least giving that impression). "It's a safety hazard!" some commenters exclaimed on our Instagram post. "The hardware seems fussy," others argued on Reddit. My immediate thought, however, goes to the Hermés Birkin, particularly Jane's own bag that was recently auctioned. Frequently photographed bulging with papers, worn and scuffed, adorned with bag charms, or with unfastened buckles, the charm of her bag was its lived-in look, and it’s this French nonchalance that has inspired 2026's "messy girl" style.

      Natalie Hammond highlights the evolution of the "messy girl" aesthetic for Who What Wear UK, citing Odessa A’zion sitting front row at Coach, wearing a distressed suede blazer with authentic mottling on the lapels and pockets. "Call it disheveled, messy, or simply real, but there’s currently no shame in appearing slightly unkempt." Could this represent a response to the 2020s' fixation on quiet luxury? Suddenly, the buttoned-up seriousness associated with old-money aesthetics feels somewhat stifling, leading us to desire a more relaxed and carefree "throw on and go" vibe. With unrefined energy manifesting in rumpled shirts and stained jeans on the runways, it was only a matter of time before accessories followed suit. Despite opinions on Golden Goose's deliberately scuffed sneakers, handbags had remained untouched, until now.

      Unlike ripped denim or worn knitwear, achieving this look doesn’t necessitate damaging your bag. Instead, designers are choosing to strip back the layers, making ultra-feminine top-handle bags appear as if they're hastily grabbed, appealing to busy women juggling their daily essentials. For instance, Loewe's Amazona is designed to be carried open with a concealed closure securing the main compartment. Ferragamo's Hug emphasizes its undone belt clasps, while Fendi's Peekaboo is playful by nature, unclipping to show its beautifully contrasting interior. Tory Burch's Lee Radziwill also resembles a hand-me-down from the American socialite herself. If your current bag is looking too neat and tidy, simply unzip it, unfasten it, let the leather sag, and voilà: you've achieved the look.

      After a decade dominated by tiny bags, strapless pouches, and sheer string designs, we now have a practical bag trend that is as functional as it is stylish. Indeed, designers are spearheading the movement with luxury bags, but the reality is, this trend doubles as a styling hack. Any spacious bag with appropriate hardware (at any price point) can create this effect, so if your mornings tend to be a bit more chaotic and less refined, you’ll truly appreciate this trend. Rise, messy girls and low-maintenance fashion enthusiasts! It’s time to grab your bag.

      Shop Undone Bags:

      Tory Burch

      Petite Lee Radziwill Double Bag

      I’ve been eyeing this exact bag for some time.

      Loewe

      Mini Amazona 180 Bag in Soft Calfskin

      Loewe consistently nails handbag trends.

      Balenciaga

      Rodeo Handbag Medium in Tan Cowboy

      Fendi

      Peekaboo ISeeU Medium

      An evening-appropriate tote, for sure.

      Hermès

      Pre-Loved Paradis Birkin 35 Handbag

      This pre-owned Birkin is in excellent shape.

      FERRAGAMO

      Hug Small Embellished Leather-Trimmed Suede Tote

      Originally released in leather, the suede version is a luxurious upgrade.

      Tory Burch

      Small Lee Radziwill Double Bag in Brown

      Available in many colors and textures, but the classics stand out.

      Toteme

      Clip Lizard-Embossed Top Handle Brown

      Carried open at the Toteme show.

      BALENCIAGA

      Rodeo Medium Leather Top-Handle Bag

      Honestly, this convinced me of the trend.

      Loewe

      Small Amazona 180 Bag in Suede

      Fendi

      Peekaboo ISeeU Small

      Just look at that stunning interior.

      FERRAGAMO

      Hug Medium Leather Tote

      A gorgeous shade of rich chocolate.

      Michael Kors

      Hamilton Moderne Large Fringed Suede Satchel

      I own this in green