The Hottest Handbags for A/W 2016

From artfully embellished day bags to streetwise sport sacs, when it comes to fall’s most statement-making styles, it’s all in the bag.

While we’re not ones to resist the wiles of maximalism (hello patches, prints and studs for days!), sometimes its good to go back to basics—when basics means a perfectly polished lady bag with a streamlined structure and a timeless top-handle silhouette. Choose one in a decadent new-season hue like rich bordeaux or emerald. Pro tip: score extra style points with a matching manicure.

Roksanda Lady Leather Tote $2,245

THE CONVERSATION-STARTER

If fashion is your drug of choice, we’ve got your fix. From prescription-bottle crossbodys and pill-pack bags at Moschino, to a gilded crisp packet clutch by Anya Hindmarch, designers are delivering an extra dose of quirk with whimsical styles that are sure to spark conversation at cocktail hour.

Moschino Capsule-Print Leather Crossbody Bag $820

Anya Hindmarch Crisp Packet Clutch $1,795

THE MINI CAMERA BAG

Our cameras keep shrinking (thanks iPhone), so it makes sense that our handbags have downsized, too. The latest upgrade? Super compact crossbodys that are made to store the essentials—think your cards, keys, smartphone and that tube of no-filter-needed red lipstick.

Marc Jacobs Snapshot Small Camera Bag $710

THE LUXE SPORTS SAC

Our resolution for life: always stay in top fashion form. Inspired by your tried-and-true gym kit but far too luxe for a sweat sesh, this season’s elevated athletic sacs and backpacks are the coolest styles to sport now.

Neil Barrett Modernist Grained Leather Drawstring Backpack $690

THE DECADENT DAY BAG

‘More is more’ is our mantra when it comes to this season’s most standout shoulder bags. From texture-rich velvet to ornate beadwork, all-out opulence reigns supreme. Don’t reserve this decadent style for after dark—we’ll be rocking ours daily with step-hem jeans and a classic white tee.

Saint Laurent Monogram Medium Velvet Embroidered Shoulder Bag $2,980

THE DIY PROJECT 

Decked out with personality-packed pins and patches for a destructed DIY vibe, fall’s punk-inspired handbags are the latest in customized cool. Add on your own appliqués over time for a devil-may-care touch—biker jacket and bad attitude not included.

Dries van Noten Tote Bag With Patches $1,115

3×1 R.I.P Feelings Limited Edition Patch Set of Three $53