They might be small, but nothing has the ability to transform an outfit quite like a good accessory. From the modern-day barrettes [1] that have been taking over the fashion scene to a dazzling pair of rhinestone earrings [2], the way you choose to accessorise can sometimes make or break an ensemble, and the same can be said about handbags: whether in the form of a practical tote or a chic evening clutch, a well-chosen purse will instantly take your outfit to the next level.
Sure, we all have our go-to styles that we love to turn to time and time again, but very few things are quite as exciting as a new handbag purchase [3]. In recent years, a whole host of exciting new brands have burst onto the accessory scene, and whether you're in the market for a new day-to-day shoulder bag or a statement purse, the following names are about to make your must-have list.
Ahead, take a closer look at the 10 bag brands you need to know in 2020. Plus, shop our favourite styles, ranging from the coolest tote bag of the season to stylish structured shoulder bags, and some of the most joyful purses you'll ever lay your eyes on.
Susan Alexandra
Handcrafted in New York City from faceted beads, Susan Alexandra's playful bags will bring joy and sparkle to your everyday life, whether you opt for a simple tote or one of her fruit-inspired bags.
Our Susan Alexandra Picks
Susan Alexandra Ash Bag [5] (£177)
Susan Alexandra White Rainbow Tante Bag
Susan Alexandra White Rainbow Tante Bag [6] (£197)
Susan Alexandra Petit Ma Cherie Bag
Susan Alexandra Petit Ma Cherie Bag [7] (£141)
Petit Kouraj
The creation of fashion stylist Nasrin Jean-Baptiste, Petit Kouraj — Haitian creole for "little courage" — is a fun luxury bag line that is chock-full of personality and that will brighten up your collection.
Our Petit Kouraj Picks
Petit Kouraj Lime Daye Tote [8] (£181)
Petit Kouraj Tan Large Fringe Tote
Petit Kouraj Tan Large Fringe Tote [9] (£359)
Petit Kouraj Ecru Kokoye Tote
Petit Kouraj Ecru Kokoye Tote [10] (£101)
Elleme
Derived from the French "Elle aime," which means "She loves," Parisian label Elleme offers minimalist bags that will bring that sophisticated je ne sais quoi to you look.
Our Elleme Picks
Elleme Cupidon Bag [11] (£318)
Elleme Vague Bag
Elleme Vague Bag [12] (£335)
Elleme Baguette Bag
Elleme Baguette Bag [13] (335)
Nannacay
Inspired by the founder's travels around the world, Nannacay — from the Aymara word for sisterhood — offers hand-woven bags that have helped support the preservation of traditional crafts in Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil.
Our Nannacay Picks
Nannacay Daisy Bag [14] (£186)
Nannacay Morgana Bag
Nannacay Morgana Bag [15] (£227)
Nannacay Agatha Bag
Nannacay Agatha Bag [16] (£280)
Vanina
Named after a '70s French pop song, Vanina offers intricate bags that are handcarfted in Lebanon using upcycling and zero-waste methods to promote environmental awareness.
Our Vanina Picks
Vanina The Inflorescence Bracelet Bag [17] (£370)
Vanina The Brown Moonglow Bag
Vanina The Brown Moonglow Bag [18] (£282)
Vanina The Camelia Bracelet Bag
Vanina The Camelia Bracelet Bag [19] (£290)
Asata Maisé
Looking for a dose of nostalgia? Asata Maisé's handbags and bucket hats are actually inspired by classic movies.
Our Asata Maisé Picks
Asata Maisé Mini Patchwork Baguette [20] (£137)
Asata Maisé Terry Baguette
Asata Maisé Terry Baguette [21] (£73)
Asata Maisé Vintage Psychedelic Boston Bag
Asata Maisé Vintage Psychedelic Boston Bag [22] (£71)
Yuzefi
Launched in London in 2016, Yuzefi bags come in bold silhouettes and rich colours, with visual twists that will give a modern update to your bag collection.
Our Yuzefi Picks
Yuzefi Dolores Bag [23] (£463)
Yuzefi Pouchy Bag
Yuzefi Pouchy Bag [24] (£322)
Yuzefi Dip Bag
Yuzefi Dip Bag [25] (£528)
Emily Levine
Made in India and inspired by Japan, Emily Levine's unique "Dumpling" bags are the only accessory you'll need this Summer.
Our Emily Levine Picks
Emily Levine Tokyo Magnet Bag [26] (£125)
Emily Levine Funky Knot Bag
Emily Levine Funky Knot Bag [27] (£149)
Emily Levine Hibiscus Dumpling Bag
Emily Levine Hibiscus Dumpling Bag [28] (£117)
Medea
Named after the Greek mythological sorceress, Medea has been making its mark on Instagram thanks to its simple, structured totes that are shaped like shopping bags. Crafted from fine leather, they come in a multitude of sizes and can be used day and night.
Our Medea Picks
Medea Tall Busted Bag [29] ($433)
Medea Lay Low Bag
Medea Lay Low Bag [30] (£547)
Medea Hanna Celeste Bag
Medea Hanna Celeste Bag [31] (£638.50)
AAKS
AAKS features beautiful, vibrant, hand-crafted raffia bags made in Ghana and is founded by Ghanaian native Akosua Afriyie-Kumi. Bloomingdale's carries a selection of the gorgeous pieces, which make for the ultimate summer-friendly sack.
Our AAKS Picks
A A K S Hana Mini Raffia Crossbody Handbags [32] (£120)
AAKS Lamé Bag
AAKS Lamé Bag [33] (£143)
AAKS Baw Pot Shoulder Bag
AAKS Baw Pot Shoulder Bag [34] (£125)