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Fashion: Four major catwalk-inspired bag trends to know about this season

It’s an unwritten rule of the fashion world that a new season calls for a new handbag so Katie Wright tells us how to get the designer look on a high-street budget

Dune London Daitlynn Tan Large Woven Shopper, £95; Hopes Multi Lattice Ballet Pumps, £85, available from Dune (clothing, stylist's own
Dune London Daitlynn Tan Large Woven Shopper, £95; Hopes Multi Lattice Ballet Pumps, £85, available from Dune (clothing, stylist's own Dune London Daitlynn Tan Large Woven Shopper, £95; Hopes Multi Lattice Ballet Pumps, £85, available from Dune (clothing, stylist's own

EVEN if you’re not overhauling your look completely, there’s something so refreshing about retiring your favourite winter bag (either to the back of your wardrobe or to a charity shop) and transitioning to a box-fresh model.

The SS21 catwalks gave us a mouth-watering selection of arm candy, but what if designer prices are beyond your budget?

Fear not, the high street is here to help, with a trove of trendy bags that will satisfy your cravings…

SHOULDER BAGS

As every fashionista knows, the noughties are back in a big way right now, and that includes accessories. The days of the sporty cross-body bag are numbered – now it’s time to make like Carrie Bradshaw with a brightly coloured, neat little shoulder bag nestled under your arm.

:: River Island Purple Tie Dye Ruffle Long Sleeve Dress, £48; Purple Nylon RI Cross Body Bag and Pochette, £35

:: Azurina Sorrento Orange Leather Pochette Bag, £50 (jumper, stylist’s own)

:: Freemans Suede Effect Shoulder Bag, £26.99 (was £35)

WOVEN BAGS

Not to be confused with straw beach bags, this spring’s woven bags are the leather – or faux – variety. Inspired by Bottega Veneta’s blockbuster Cassette, these neutral-hued handbags are compact and cool but big enough to fit all your essentials. Need something larger? Try a woven tote.

:: Tu at Sainsburys Light Pink Faux Leather Weave Bag, £16

:: Matalan Nude Weave Front Cross-Body Bag, £10

:: Dune London Daitlynn Tan Large Woven Shopper, £95; Hopes Multi Lattice Ballet Pumps, £85 (clothing, stylist’s own)

QUILTED BAGS

Quilted bags never really go out of style but they’re having a real moment this spring. From classic chain strap shoulder bags to mini backpacks, this season’s padded purses are small but perfectly formed.

:: Kaleidoscope Quilted Box Bag, £35

:: Dune Dorchester Blue Small Quilted Shoulder Bag, £65

:: Aldo Agylle Backpack, £55 (available mid May)

SLOUCHY BAGS

The accessories equivalent of loungewear, is it any wonder super-soft bags have become hugely popular during the pandemic? These slouchy pouches and shoulder bags are a great day-to-night option.

:: Deichmann Black Slouchy Clutch Bag, £14.99

:: Next Chunky Chain Slouchy Clutch Bag, £28