Whether you fancy a classic briefcase or a one-of-a-kind tote, the options are truly endless.&nbsp;

In an era where collections continue to refer to the past, pieces like the cummerbund, loafers, and traditional suiting have swung back on the fashion pendulum. Yet, creative directors like Pharrell Williams, Miuccia Prada, and Ib Karmara all have their sights set on a beloved classic: the top-handle bag.
Usually, the medium-sized accessory has either one or two top handles while also having crossbody and shoulder bag capabilities. Pieces like the briefcase were commonly worn primarily by men for centuries, but the top-handle bag made its debut in the 1920s. Once it came out, the hand-carried bag had its hold on many.
However, when Hermés crafted a top-handled leather bag to support its leather goods category, the design would eventually explode in popularity. Known as sac à dépêches for years, the handbag was renamed the Kelly in 1956 after Grace Kelly was seen sporting the bag on multiple occasions.
Throughout the '50s, '60s, and '70s, briefcases, alongside other top-handled pieces, were seen as a status symbol. Whether you were working a white-collar profession such as a lawyer or business economist or had the latest offering from heritage houses, that look carried much weight to its timeless design.

Ralph Lauren Fall/Winter 2026. Courtesy of Ralph Lauren.

Loewe Fall/Winter 2026, Paris Fashion Week. Courtesy of Loewe.

Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2026. Courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

Off-White Fall/Winter 2026. Courtesy of Off-White.

Although the bag had its mainstay base for over 50 years, many gravitated to the shoulder, mini, and extra-large styles. This shift to alternative looks isolated the top-handle as a mature, professional look rather than a fun, whimsical one. That perspective would change almost instantly with Fall/Winter 2026.
Sure, Ralph Lauren knows that the top-handle style isn't meant for everyone. But by merging the historic bag into his collection during Milan Men's Fashion Week back in January, he knew that it would become a piece that only benefited the preppy, Western-heavy collection. From crisp plaid suits to colorful ensembles, the short handles added a polished yet malleable element to the looks it appear alongside.
The use of the top-handle bag wouldn't stop here; it would only continue to grow. Loewe's dynamic duo Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez presented a playful sophomore collection. Bright hues, a variety of textiles, and pieces like totes and the Amazona 180 made a splash on the banana yellow catwalk.
Eventually, Pharrell Williams would honor the top-handle's legacy through house icons like the Speedy, Keepall, and trunks while inserting a futuristic element into them for Louis Vuitton Men's. Off-White's Fall/Winter 2026 collection was not just a special capsule created alongside the Miles Davis Estate, but a presentation that redefined the traditional.

Prada Fall/Winter 2026. Courtesy of Prada.

From denim coats to collars sharper than a knife, the idea of "disruption as dialogue" made the looks stand out. But it wouldn't be complete without black top-handle duffle bags, only adding to the piece's resurgence. In the same season, Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons posed a question: "What can we build, from what we have learned?"
That query was answered in 54 looks for Prada's Fall/Winter 2026 collection, which had a variety of lush leather top-handles that combined business casual with colorful sportswear-inspired finishes. Needless to say, the once isolated style was officially back and better than ever.
As the cooler weather continues to get closer and closer, the time to act on the resurged look is now. Coach's Soft Empire 40 in supple suede, Dior's Archie, and even Acne Studios' Musubi Tote are great ways to introduce the design into your wardrobe these next two seasons.&nbsp;
Not feeling the newer looks loved by many? It's never a bad idea to go back to basics, and briefcases are the perfect way to go. Whether you rock the once-in-a-while tuxedo for a special occasion or wear a white T-shirt with blue jeans and black boots, the top-handle bag is here to sophisticate all of your looks.

The Top-Handle Bag Is Having A Major Moment

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