Fashion trends are known to operate in cycles, and this couldn’t be more true for handbags.
Many iconic bags from the past are returning to the scene, taking the fashion world by storm – once again. Conceived in the late 1990s and early 2000s, ultra-luxury bag styles from brands such as Fendi, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Marc Jacobs have become popular for their luxury status and prominence in pop culture. Fast forward to the present day, these Y2K bags – despite being nearly two decades old – have managed to stay relevant and continue adding that perfect touch of nostalgia. Here are the throwback bags that are making a fashionable comeback.
Watch our YouTube Short video on style comebacks from Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and more:
Throwback Bags from Fendi
The Fendi Baguette
For starters, the Fendi Baguette is top of mind when it comes to throwback bags making a fashionable comeback. Known for its rectangular baguette-shaped silhouette, the introduction of this style back in 1997 changed the game. But what makes this style iconic is arguably due to its debut in Sex and the City, resting on the arms of our favorite fictional character, Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker. Since then, this style has been in high demand and reimagined in countless ways, from bold colors to intricate embellishments and collaborations, while still retaining its iconic silhouette.
The Fendi Spy Bag
Another particularly noteworthy Y2K style is the Fendi Spy bag. Back in the mid-2000s, this was one of the most sought-after bags popularized by celebrities such as the Olsen twins and Kate Moss. When you think of the Fendi Spy back, nothing quite compares to it as it is known for its unique design with secret compartments and “spy-inspired” details. Now, the Spy bag is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with stars like Rihanna and Bella Hadid sporting this standout bag.
In addition to the Fendi Baguette and Spy Bag, another quintessential Y2K bag making a fashionable comeback is the Christian Dior Saddle Bag.
Throwback Bags from Christian Dior
The Christian Dior Saddle Bag
The ever-iconic Dior Saddle bag is surely one that is on your radar. This style was first introduced under former creative director John Galliano for Dior’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection and quickly became a cult favorite among fashion enthusiasts. Its unique asymmetrical shape, resembling a horse saddle, made it stand out among other bags at the time. And just like the Fendi Baguette, the influence of pop culture and television at the time has immortalized this style. When Maria Grazia Chiuri decided to revive this timeless silhouette, the Saddle Bag became a signature piece for Dior. Today it is practically Instagram famous, seen on the arms of so many celebrities and influencers who can’t get enough Y2K nostalgia in their wardrobes.
The Christian Dior Lady Dior
Another iconic Y2K bag experiencing a sweet revival is the Christian Dior Lady Dior. This bag was first introduced in 1995 and became an instant classic, favored by Princess Diana. The bag’s elegant design, featuring the “cannage” quilted pattern inspired by cane chairs in the Dior atelier and the iconic “Dior” charms, added to the bag’s popularity. Its various looks throughout the years cemented its status as a timeless fashion piece. Today, we continue to see this bag evolve and be reinterpreted season after season. Its classic and boxy top-handle silhouette, as well as its rich history, make it a perfect addition to any ultra-luxury collection. It’s an enduring piece and one that proves that the Y2K trend is here to stay.
In addition to the revival of Y2K bags from Fendi and Christian Dior, other throwback bags to consider include those from Louis Vuitton.
Throwback Bags from Louis Vuitton
The Louis Vuitton Baggy
The Louis Vuitton Denim Baggy is one style in particular that is making a sweet revival. First introduced in the early 2000s, the Denim Baggy coming in both pink and blue iterations, was a favorite among celebrities like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. Its relaxed hobo-like silhouette and durable denim material exude a playful and youthful vibe for daily use. It’s been a while since this style has been uttered from the mouths of fashion enthusiasts, but now with the growing popularity of denim bags, it’s no wonder the LV Denim Baggy is back.
The Louis Vuitton Multicolor Pochette Accessories
The Louis Vuitton Multicolor Pochette Accessories is another iconic Y2K bag. It was first released in 2003 as a collaboration with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami and quickly became a fan favorite. The bag’s vibrant colors and playful design, featuring the iconic LV monogram in a rainbow of hues, epitomized the Y2K aesthetic. The bag’s playful and nostalgic design makes it a statement piece that is sure to turn heads, and its enduring popularity shows that the Y2K trend is here to stay.
Throwback Bags from Marc Jacobs
The Marc Jacobs Stam Bag
Lo and behold, the Marc Jacobs Stam bag is out of retirement and officially back on the scene, gracing our closets with yet another re-edition worn by some of Y2K’s famous faces, such as Ashanti and Selma Blair. First introduced in 2005, the Stam Bag was named after model Jessica Stam and resembles a vintage-inspired silhouette. It features diamond quilts throughout and a noticeably heavy chain for a shoulder strap, along with an oversized kiss-lock closure. The Stam Bag’s revival proves that it’s never a goodbye but a see you later because there is always a (very likely) chance that we’ll see it again soon.
The Fendi Baguette, the Dior Saddle, and the Marc Jacobs Stam bag are just a few of the many revivals we’re seeing as of late. Do you own one of these? Throwback bags are nothing new, and some of these styles may already be on your radar. Trends come in cycles, ultimately influencing new reinterpretations of past-time favorites. It goes without saying these styles are returning to the scene, taking the fashion world by storm – once again.
