Alexa Chung on the It Bag Trend: Guide to Timeless Handbags

THE END OF THE IT BAG: WHY ALEXA CHUNG IS RIGHT TO RETIRE THE TREND CYCLE

Alexa Chung doesn’t believe in IT bags. For a woman whose name is synonymous with one of the most successful handbag launches of the 2010s—the Mulberry Alexa—this isn't just a casual remark; it’s a full-scale dismantling of the fashion industry’s favorite marketing engine. Speaking on a recent episode of Harper’s Bazaar’s podcast, Chung revealed a refreshing skepticism toward the FOMO-driven world of "must-have" accessories. Her philosophy is simple: the trend cycle is a treadmill designed to keep you spending, and the most stylish choice you can make is to step off it.

The allure of the "it" bag is built on a foundation of planned obsolescence. These items are designed to be recognizable, ubiquitous, and eventually, exhausted. When a bag is tied so tightly to a specific season, its expiration date is set the moment it hits the runway. Chung’s approach, which she describes as building a personal collection rather than chasing a shopping addiction, offers a roadmap for consumers who are tired of the constant pressure to upgrade.

THE TRAP OF MOMENTARY STATUS

The primary flaw in the "it" bag pursuit is that it prioritizes external validation over personal utility. We buy into the status of a specific logo or silhouette because it signals belonging to a certain cultural moment. But as Chung points out, those moments are fleeting. Once the influencer fatigue sets in and the secondary market is flooded, that high-priced investment often feels like a relic of a past version of yourself.

True personal style isn't about the bag everyone else has; it’s about the bag you can’t imagine living without. This shift in mindset moves the focus from "what is everyone wearing?" to "what works for my life?" For those looking to invest in themselves or find a truly meaningful gift for someone else, this means looking past the hype and focusing on the enduring appeal of craftsmanship and silhouette.

THE ANATOMY OF LONGEVITY: A VALUE CHECK

Before investing in a high-end accessory, it is essential to look past the branding and evaluate the physical construction. A bag that stands the test of time isn't just about style; it’s about engineering. When assessing a potential purchase, use this checklist to ensure the piece is built for the long haul:

1. Finished Edges: Look for "edge painting"—a process where the raw edges of the leather are sealed with a protective coating. This prevents fraying and keeps the bag looking crisp after years of use.

2. Reinforced Stress Points: Examine where the handles meet the body of the bag. High-quality pieces will feature X-stitching or metal rivets to ensure the weight of your belongings doesn't tear the leather over time.

3. Metal Feet: A quality tote or structured bag should have small metal "feet" on the base. This keeps the leather off the ground, protecting the corners from scuffing and moisture.

4. Substantial Hardware: Zippers should be metal, not plastic, and should glide smoothly without catching. If the hardware feels light or tinny, it likely won’t survive the rigors of daily use.

THE PERMANENT COLLECTION: BEYOND THE HYPE

If we are moving away from the "it" bag, what takes its place? The answer lies in the permanent collection—pieces that offer utility without sacrificing an editorial edge. These are the models that have earned their reputation through performance rather than PR campaigns.

The Professional Workhorse: The Cuyana System Tote Cuyana has built a brand around "fewer, better things," and the System Tote is the pinnacle of that ethos. It is modular, allowing you to add laptop sleeves or pouches as your needs change. It’s made from heavy-weight Italian leather that gains character with age, making it the antithesis of a disposable trend.

The Everyday Icon: The Madewell Transport Tote For a bag that bridges the gap between affordable and heirloom, the Madewell Transport Tote is the gold standard. It’s unlined and rugged, designed to be thrown around, stuffed to the brim, and used daily. It doesn't scream a brand name; it simply signals a practical, effortless sensibility that aligns perfectly with Chung’s own aesthetic.

The Sculptural Classic: The Mansur Gavriel Large Tote While Mansur Gavriel once flirted with "it" status, their Large Tote has transitioned into a modern classic. Its vegetable-tanned leather is stiff and structured, developing a unique patina over time. It is a piece that looks as good with a trench coat in London as it does with a t-shirt in Los Angeles.

The Versatile Crossbody: The Clare V. Moyen Messenger For the person on the move, the Moyen Messenger is a masterclass in versatility. It comes with both a shoulder strap and a crossbody strap, allowing it to transform from a casual day bag to a more sophisticated evening piece. It’s the kind of "considered addition" Alexa Chung advocates for—one that solves a wardrobe problem rather than creating a new one.

STRATEGIC GIFTING FOR THE LONG TERM

When choosing a bag as a gift, the goal should be to provide a solution, not a temporary thrill. A trendy bag is a snapshot of the current year; a timeless bag is a partner for the next decade. To make the best choice, consider the recipient’s daily "friction points."

Do they struggle to find their keys in a deep tote? Look for a model with integrated interior organization, like the Dagne Dover Allyn Leather Tote. Are they constantly switching between work and the gym? A sophisticated leather backpack like the Senreve Maestra offers a hands-free solution that remains office-appropriate.

By focusing on the function—how the bag will actually be used—you ensure the gift remains relevant long after the next "must-have" bag has been relegated to the back of the closet.

RECLAIMING PERSONAL STYLE

Ultimately, Alexa Chung’s dismissal of the "it" bag is a call for intentionality. It is a reminder that fashion is at its best when it is a tool for self-expression, not a race for social currency. When we stop buying what we are told to want and start buying what we actually need and love, we build a wardrobe that feels authentic.

Next time you feel the pull of a viral accessory, take a breath and look at the stitching. Look at the silhouette. Ask yourself if you’ll still want to carry it three years from now when the social media noise has moved on to something else. If the answer is no, keep your money. The best buy isn't the one everyone is talking about; it’s the one you’ll still be wearing when everyone has stopped talking. That is the true mark of style.