In 2023, everyone wanted a free-form bag that was big, unstructured, and had plenty of space—a bottomless bag that Hermione from the Harry Potter books would be proud of.
But this year, architectural lines and structured shapes are in the spotlight: from crescent bags to the latest trend, the East-West bag, our favorite accessories are becoming more elegant and sophisticated.
The East West bag, in particular, has quickly become the biggest handbag trend for summer 2024. The slim, rectangular, horizontal design is nothing new; Chanel has been pushing the shape for decades. But with street style appeal and a touch of flair, the East West bag has steadily gained popularity, with both ultra-luxury and everyday fashion brands designing them.
It’s quickly become a wardrobe staple for celebrities, and it might just make it into yours soon. Carry the bag by the handles, strap it over your shoulder, or tuck it under your arm for a retro 1990s look. No matter how you choose to carry your East West bag, there are plenty of options to choose from. Buy now with Amazon Prime and have the trendy handbag delivered to you tomorrow.
1. Overall Grand Prize Winner: Coach Tabby Quilted Leather Bag
Coach’s Tabby is a sleek bag crafted from premium leather that’s more compact than the typical East West bag, but with the same structured shape and versatility. With an overall look that’s timeless yet edgy, this bag combines black quilted nappa leather with a metallic chain strap and a bold metal C fastening on the front. Inside, there’s a zipper and magnetic snap pocket, and there’s also an open pocket on the outside for quick access. Reviewers say the East West bag’s crossbody style makes it perfect for everyday use.
Bonus: Buy with 0% installments from selected banks and pay Dh139.08 over 12 months.
2. Best Tote Bag: Michael Kors East/West Tote
The Michael Kors East West Bag is a sleek reimagining of the classic tote for the modern woman. Made from leather, this medium-sized bag is roomy enough to travel with and can easily fit a tablet, water bottle, and all your essentials. It has a zipper closure at the top to keep your belongings safe and an exterior slip pocket for quick access. The buckled shoulder strap makes it comfortable to carry, and the structured design ensures it always stands upright when set down. Reviewers say they love that this bag is chic yet functional and available in a variety of colors.
Bonus: Buy with 0% installments from selected banks, pay Dh53.25 over 12 months.
3. Best Shoulder Bag: JW Pei Lily Shoulder Bag
A blend of hobo and East-meets-West design, JW Pei’s Lily bag is made from vegan leather and features a zipper closure and gold hardware accents. The main compartment is fairly spacious despite its slim frame, and an interior jetted pocket helps keep your essentials organized. Reviewers say it looks and feels premium, and it arrives in beautiful packaging with a dust bag for storage.
4. Best Crossbody Bag: Dooney & Bourke Beacon East West Crossbody
The super smooth texture, matte finish and east-west construction give Dooney & Bourke’s classic Beacon crossbody bag a chic update. We chose this bag in a vibrant color they call Dandelion, with crisp accents like contrast stitching and gold-plated hardware. The adjustable, detachable strap offers multiple styling options. Wear it as a crossbody or shoulder bag during busy weekdays or as a clutch for weekend nights out.
Bonus: Buy with 0% installments from selected banks and pay Dh132.83 over 12 months.
5. Best Laptop Bag: Targus Newport East-West Laptop Tote
Known for its durability and premium construction, Targus has come up with a stretchy east-west tote that’s perfect for carrying all your essential electronics. The bag doubles as both a business and travel bag, easily accommodating a 15″ laptop in a protective cradle, while multiple compartments hold accessories and other items. The interior is spacious, with a hidden back-panel pocket to keep your important accessories safe. The Newport is made from high-density, water-repellent twill nylon with synthetic leather accents, making it durable enough to withstand travel and everyday wear and tear. Reviewers say the strap on the back is especially useful for hooking the bag onto luggage handles at the airport.
Bonus: Buy with 0% installments from selected banks and pay Dh56.86 over 12 months.
6. Best Hobo Bag: Coach Celeste East/West Hobo Bag
In an eye-catching pink ruby color, Coach’s Celeste is perfect for everyday use. It’s made from soft pebbled leather and features a top zip closure, fabric lining, and adjustable shoulder and crossbody straps. Reviews say it’s perfect for work or social occasions, with plenty of space for your daily essentials and not as bulky as a tote bag. Customers also love the flexibility of being able to carry it over the shoulder or in a more casual crossbody position.
Bonus: Buy with 0% installments from selected banks and pay Dh74.92 over 12 months.
7. Best Flap Shoulder Bag: Anne Klein Convertible East/West Shoulder Bag
A compact bag that can be worn over the shoulder or across the body, the Anne Klein East-West Flap Shoulder Bag is embellished with sherpa details and features the signature AK turnlock closure. There’s a slip pocket on the exterior back, and four card slots and a zipper pocket on the inside of the bag. Reviewers who traveled to cold countries this summer say the bag is the perfect luxe accessory to their outfits.
Our recommendations are independently selected by Gulf News editors, and if you shop through links on our website, we are a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and may earn an affiliate commission.