While handbags are typically valued for their practicality—who wants to carry their essentials in pockets alone?—there has been a notable shift towards abstract and unconventional handbag designs in recent years.
Some of these unique creations emerge from deep creative exploration and symbolic meaning, while others, like Demna's playful shoe-shaped bags for Balenciaga, simply celebrate joy and whimsy.
By experimenting with funky shapes, unusual sizes, and materials like glass, steel, and concrete, the variety of distinctive designer handbags has expanded dramatically, setting the stage for even more imaginative designs in the future. This season's collection of delightfully odd handbags makes it easy to stand out in the crowd.
Novelty bags aren't a new concept (just look back at that frog purse from the 17th century), but they've seen a resurgence lately. From Collina Strada's whimsical broccoli bags featured on the Spring/Summer 2023 runways to Coperni's glass bag seen on Doja Cat, and the viral JW Anderson pigeon bag showcased in And Just Like That Season 2, unique handbags are definitely in the spotlight.
These bags, which draw inspiration from animals, vegetables, and everyday objects, may seem a bit strange but are undeniably cool. Carry any one of these, and you'll be guaranteed to turn heads—in a good way.
Here’s a look at some of the most unique designer handbags to keep an eye on.
Moschino Sedano Bag
Courtesy of Moschino
Italian designer Moschino has made headlines with its £3,730 clutch bag designed to look like a bunch of celery. Known for its quirky, food-inspired designs—such as the £995 French bread leather bag—shoppers have dubbed the luxury brand “bonkers” for selling this meticulously handcrafted green bag for nearly £4,000. The Sedano Bag is crafted from nappa leather and is described as a “maxi celery-shaped clutch with a digital print that creates a three-dimensional effect.” Its two-tone color palette adds realism to the accessory, representing Moschino’s irreverent spirit.
JW Anderson Pigeon Clutch
First introduced in the Fall/Winter 2022 menswear collection, this clutch quickly became a cult favorite, spotted on celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Bella Hadid, Sam Smith, and Harry Styles.
Dauphinette x PAMPSHADE Daisy Bread Bag
Following the rapid sell-out of their viral baguette and croissant bags, bakery bag fans can still snag this quirky daisy loaf. Crafted from an actual loaf of bread in Japan, it’s the perfect accessory for a trip to the farmer's market.
Olympia Le-Tan Storybook Clutch
The Storybook Clutch is not just an iconic fashion statement; it’s also a great conversation starter that reflects your love for literature and fashion.
Kate Spade Showdog Crossbody Bag
Owning this shaggy dog bag might just be the next best thing to having an actual shaggy dog by your side.
Louis Vuitton Paint Can Bag
Available in six striking colors from the late designer Virgil Abloh’s signature palette, this collectible bag is designed to resemble a real paint can, complete with a metal handle. It retails for over $4,000!
Simone Rocha Micro Egg Bag
For those who prefer tiny bags, this micro bag is perfect for holding just your lipstick. Be sure to bring a friend along for everything else!
Clingy Alien Clinger
Designed by Sydney-based Isobel Murray, this adorable alien is made from deadstock fabric and textile waste. While it may not hold much, it’s known for its comforting hugs.
Anya Hindmarch Crisp Packet Clutch
Inspired by the packaging of a classic chip bag, this meticulously crafted bag combines artistry, luxury, and whimsy.
Moschino Velvet Sofa Bag
This playful and ironic take on the classic clutch is sure to turn heads, with prices reaching up to $5,000.
Burberry Exaggerated Check Thomas Bear Bag
Although technically a children's bag, there's nothing stopping you from rocking Thomas as a shoulder bag—your secret is safe with us!
Loewe Turtle Pouch
While Loewe is known for its iconic elephant bag, this cute little turtle is equally adorable.
Thom Browne Sheep Tote Bag
Famous for his avant-garde designs, Browne incorporates unique elements into his work, such as this delightfully quirky 3D sheep-shaped bag, which serves as both a functional purse and a playful accessory.
Coperni Air Bag
Courtesy of Coperni
Comprising 99% air and only 1% glass, the Air Swipe Bag is made from aerogel—a delicate nanomaterial often used by NASA. Weighing just 1.16 ounces, it debuted as part of the Fall/Winter 2024 collection and is confirmed to hold an iPhone.
Chanel Teapot Bag
Courtesy of Getty Images
At its 2023 Métiers d'Art runway show in Manchester, Chanel featured miniature sequined teapots and loose-leaf tea tins as handbags, playfully paying homage to its British host city.
Balenciaga Garbage Bag
Courtesy of Balenciaga
Critics questioned whether this bag was a joke or a social experiment, but designer Demna confirmed it was neither. “I couldn’t miss an opportunity to make the most expensive trash bag in the world, because who doesn’t love a fashion scandal?” he told WWD in 2022. Made from a mycelium-based leather alternative, it aligns with the collection's sustainability mission and starts at $1,790.
Valentino Mini Bag
Courtesy of Getty Images
Microbags have surged in popularity over the last few years, with Valentino’s white micro bag going viral after Lizzo showcased it at the 2019 AMAs.
Coperni Glass Bag
Courtesy of Getty Images
Debuting on the red carpet in 2022, the Coperni Glass Swipe Bag gained buzz after Doja Cat appeared with a custom blue version at the Grammy Awards, matching her icy blue Atelier Versace dress.
Judith Leiber Cash Clutch
Instagram/ @beyonce
Judith Leiber is renowned for her whimsical, intricately crafted handbags, including the cash-shaped clutch favored by A-listers like Jennifer Lopez and Khloé Kardashian. Beyoncé also showcased the bejeweled clutch, customized to resemble billion-dollar bills, at Jay-Z's 2019 gala.
Sportmax Futuristic Bag
Courtesy of Sportsmax
Sportmax's Spring/Summer 2024 collection featured oversized metallic, abstract handbags inspired by a modern, dystopian aesthetic, creating a stir with their "space shuttle" designs that stand out among the unique handbag releases of recent years.
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