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The return ofblock heels, wedges, andcapri pantsthis season signals not only the continued hold ’90s minimalism has on contemporary fashion but also the undisputed supremeness of practicality. These are shoes you can comfortably walk in, warm-weather clothes you can wear to sit on the subway. So what does this mean for bags? Well, it was only a matter of time before the once-antiquated flap bag returned in full force.
Like many of this season’s trends, the flap bag appeared inMatthieu Blazey’sspring/summer 2026 show for Chanel, in which models dressed in structured lady jackets, low-waisted midi skirts, and glossy glove pumps cradled gloriously floppy shoulder bags and dainty quilted purses as they made their way down the runway. Flap bags also made a splash at the debut of Tory Burch’s resort 2026 collection—hello, Charlie—and are now available at Coach, with the recent arrival of the simple yet undeniably elegant Chelsea.
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It’s no surprise that editors and celebrities like Jennie,Hailey Bieber, and Chanel devoteeKendal Jennerare quickly gravitating to the shape. Not only is the flap bag pragmatic—the closure secures your valuables from eyesight yet can be quickly undone for easy access—but it channels the glamour of a bygone era when simply going outside was reason enough to get done up.
As we cope with spring’s weather shifts over the next few weeks, now is a great time to consider the bag you want to carry through this sartorially confusing time of year. A flap bag will fit right in with a poplin button-up and relaxed trousers. It’ll add a little Blaire Waldorfian flair tosporty pulloversandpleated midi skirts, or raglan shirts draped over cigarette-style denim.
Below, we’ve shopped out some of our favorite flap bags to pick up this season. There are exercises in extreme minimalism courtesy of the Row and Eileen Fisher, tasteful texture by Gucci and Saint Laurent, and color (or the absence thereof) done smartly by Ralph Lauren and Tory Burch. With prices ranging from under $300 to a few thousand, there’s a style for every taste and budget.
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