A woman with shoulder-length brown hair and colorful sunglasses holds a Kate Spade New York Bleecker orange trimmed canvas tote bag on her shoulder. She wears colorful earrings and a multicolored tweed jacket. The background is plain white.

Kate Spade New York

The Dress Edit

I’m Calling It—These Retro Style Bags Will Define This Summer

 

Feeling nostalgic? Retro style bags aren’t just the best way to revisit the past, but they’re actually trending for summer. Whether that’s bright color, smooth leathers, or even unique textures, these styles were made to come back. After all, trends always manage to make their way back into our closets 5, 10, and even 20 years later. So, if you’re on the hunt for a standout piece, don’t turn away from the retro aesthetic. I for one have already started compiling the ultimate shopping list—from Paco Rabbane to even Gucci. But before you think today’s modern brand’s don’t offer this retro trend, think again. This edit might just surprise you in the best way possible.

A person in a shiny silver dress carries a Paco Rabanne 1969 Nano gold embellished chainmail shoulder bag adorned with multicolored beads and spherical decorations, exuding the charm of retro style bags. The person is also wearing a gold chain bracelet. The background is plain and gray.

PACO RABANNE 1969 Nano Embellished Chainmail Shoulder Bag

Person seated in profile view wearing a red blazer with white and black trim, black turtleneck, large black sunglasses, and silver hoop earrings. They have a Gucci GG Marmont 2.0 black quilted leather shoulder bag with a gold chain strap resting on their shoulder—one of those chic retro style bags.

GUCCI GG Marmont 2.0 Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag

Leave It Up To Gucci & Rabanne

 

It’s never a surprise to see retro style bags coming from design houses like Gucci and Rabanne. In fact, no matter the year or trends, retro styles always manage to find a spot in their collections. More importantly, the two labels are the best at crafting memorable pieces—pieces that go beyond practicality. The Paco Rabanne 1969 Nano embellished shoulder bag is one of the best examples of this. While I don’t usually reach for bold bags, this one is too good to pass up on. Not only are the color irresistible, but the chainmail adds a unique flair to jus about any look. I particularly love the 16Arlington Sior sequined mini dress and Giuseppe Zanotti Intriigo sandals. This piece deserves the best canvas.

 

On a more minimal note, the Gucci GG Marmont 2.0 quilted shoulder bag is another great find. I always love stocking up on black bags, especially quilted numbers. While this one isn’t all that textured, it offers just enough to stand out with a variety of aesthetics. For a style upgrade, try the Milly Nessa 3D lace mini dress and Chloé Rebecca sandals. Ensembles like this are classic, clean and cool thanks to retro style bags like these.

  • KATE SPADE NEW YORK Medium Bleecker Canvas & Leather Tote

    $248
  • PACO RABANNE 1969 Nano Embellished Chainmail Shoulder Bag

    $1,390
  • SAINT LAURENT Le Maillon Satchel Bag

    $2,850
  • FWRD RENEW Chanel Quilted Flap Shoulder Bag

    $4,100
  • MIU MIU Softy & Nastro Wallet

    $1,150
  • GUCCI Jackie Notte Mini Crinkled Patent-leather Shoulder Bag

    $3,900
  • PRADA Galleria Saffiano Leather Mini Bag

    $3,950
  • BOTTEGA VENETA Medium Andiamo Intrecciato Leather Top-Handle Bag

    $5,100
  • GIVENCHY Voyou Croc Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag

    $1,900
  • MULBERRY Pimlico Shiny Croc Embossed Leather Satchel

    $1,800
  • CHANEL PRE-OWNED 2006 Mini Timeless Shoulder Bag

    $6,853
  • LELE SADOUGHI Maya Mini Tote Bag

    $345
  • LELE SADOUGHI Tabitha Top Handle Crossbody Bag

    $345
  • PACO RABANNE 1969 Nano Layered Shoulder Bag

    $1,131
  • BALENCIAGA Small Hourglass Tortoiseshell-print Tote Bag

    $3,000
  • ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Skull Crocodile-embossed Top-handle Bag

    $1,290
  • GUCCI Horsebit-embellished Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag

    $3,490
  • GUCCI GG Marmont 2.0 Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag

    $1,990

The Start Of Retro Style Bags: Blue

 

If you haven’t noticed, blue is one of the most popular colors for summer. Not only is the shade perfect for modern styles, it also happens to be seen in many retro style bags. The Gucci Jackie Notte shoulder bag is one of the best styles to buy. As an editor, I’m always used to sharing the wildest, most trendy pieces—but this beats it all. If you’re not 100% into the retro aesthetic, this piece is a great introduction with a mix of modernity. Plus, it styles the Alice + Olivia Meeko lace mini dress and Jimmy Choo Aveline bow sandals beautifully.

 

On the other hand, the Lele Sadoughi Maya tote bag is a more fun, playful approach for the retro enthusiasts. While more appropriate for outdoor occasions, you can also bring this to indoor affairs with the right styling. Whether weddings, garden parties, or maybe even errands, Lele Sadoughi always delivers creative pieces that are also practical. The best part about going with unique styles like this is the styling opportunity they offer. If I had to style it with a dress and shoes, I’d go with the Self-Portrait cotton shirt dress and Miu Miu slingback pumps. An extra soirée ensemble never hurt anyone.

Shop All Bags

A person wearing a light blue, monogram-patterned, long-sleeve button-up shirt with rolled sleeves and black pants. They are holding a Gucci Jackie Notte mini blue leather shoulder bag with a chain strap and metallic clasp.

GUCCI Jackie Notte Mini Crinkled Patent-leather Shoulder Bag

A person holds a Lele Sadoughi Maya mini navy pearl tote bag, embracing the charm of retro style bags. They are also carrying a black container filled with orange flowers. The person is wearing a yellow skirt and gold-colored shoes.

LELE SADOUGHI Maya Mini Tote Bag

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