Recommended Video
Fresh off the runway — again! The bags that ruled sidewalks, red carpets, and paparazzi flashbulbs are storming back into the conversation. The Celine Phantom (already known as the “New Luggage), Chloé Paddington, Balenciaga City, and Fendi Spy are all back in business, proving classics never die.
RELATED: The Semi-Retired Party Girl’s Guide to Daytime Raves—and What to Wear
Celine
The New Luggage
Phoebe Philo’s Phantom Bag, first launched in 2011, was the cooler cousin of Celine’s Luggage: vast wings, deep carry-all shape, and that elusive aura of insider chic. After disappearing during Hedi Slimane’s directional reign, it resurfaced on Michael Rider’s debut runway—as the New Luggage— for Celine in Spring/Summer 2026. Slightly shorter, wider, but instantly recognizable.
Balenciaga
Le City Bag
Balenciaga’s City Bag, introduced by Nicolas Ghesquière in 2001, was the slouchy, studded badge of cool that defined the era. Demna brought it back in 2024 with the “Closet Campaign”, presenting it not as a revival but as a crown jewel of Balenciaga’s archive. The new versions keep the biker-chic studs and softened leather, with proportions tweaked for today. If you missed your chance the first time, Balenciaga has made sure you’ll pay dearly for your second.
Chloé
Paddington Bag
The Chloé Paddington Bag was the mid-2000s fever dream: soft leather, slouchy structure, and a padlock so heavy it could double as gym equipment. Phoebe Philo designed it in 2005, and it became the Y2K boho uniform of Kate Moss and Lindsay Lohan. Now, under Chemena Kamali’s Autumn/Winter 2025 collection, the Paddington has been reissued with lighter leather and a padlock that won’t dislocate your shoulder. A bohemian redux for a more curated It-girl, chaos included
Fendi
Spy Bag
The Fendi Spy Bag, originally a Silvia Venturini Fendi creation of the early 2000s, was famed for its voluminous curves and cheeky hidden compartments. Relaunched in 2025 as part of Fendi’s heritage campaign, the Spy returns with updated leathers and fresh colour palettes while retaining its playful sense of secrecy. Still plush, still over-the-top, still a bag that wants to be gossiped about.
It-bags, in their original production, linger in resale shops, on Instagram throwbacks, and in the collective memory. When brands resurrect them, they’re simply re-seducing — and it works. Because while you can question your life choices, you rarely regret buying the right bag at the right time.
Photos: CELINE, BALENCIAGA, CHLOE, and FENDI
