Chanel Flap with Top Handle: The Iridescent It-Bag of Autumn/Winter 2021

Fashion Month is in full swing, and while the catwalks are looking ahead to 2022, street style is all about A/W '21 right now. We've been trend spotting and have put together a list of this season's most coveted It-bags in case you're looking for the perfect cherry on top of that Fashion Week outfit, or just a fabulous handbag to carry into the colder months.

The Fendi First

If there's one handbag that has the potential to be the cult hit of Autumn/Winter 2021-22, it's the Fendi First. The bag made its debut at Fendi's A/W21 ready-to-wear collection earlier this year under the new creative direction of Kim Jones, and has already been seen on celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Rita Ora and Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Geometrically shaped, with an unstructured pouch form and an F-shaped clasp, the First is like every trend of the past couple of years rolled into one stylish package. Managing to be luxurious and effortless at the same time, the bag is offered in medium, small, and the ever trendy nano, and can be worn as a clutch, with a crossbody chain or with an over the shoulder leather strap. It comes in several great neutral leather and python hues, as well as in mink, sheepskin, and wool finishes for autumn.

The Dior Caro

Launched by the fashion house at the start of 2021, the Caro - named after the nickname for Christian Dior's sister Catherine - has been quietly growing its It-bag status and can be seen everywhere this autumn. Clad in the brand's statement Cannage motif requiring over 18,000 stitches by Dior's artisans in Italy, the bag sports the iconic CD clasp and has a removable chain link shoulder strap, which can be swapped for the brand's more traditional fabric straps. The incredibly versatile design comes in small, medium, large and even micro, as well as a number of other versions, such as a belt pouch and a cardholder.

The classic silhouette and instantly recognisable Dior codes mean that the bag will easily stand the test of time, but incorporating current trends like the thick chain link makes it modern and very 2021. The latest collection comes in a number of cool colours and materials for the season, such as indigo blue lambskin and grey shearling.

The Chanel Flap with Top Handle

This season's Chanel Flap with Top Handle is very similar to the Coco Handle that was first introduced by Chanel as part of its Pre-Fall/Winter 2015 collection. It is essentially the same as the Classic Flap bag with an added top handle. The new hype is about the iridescent finish, the most popular being white, pink, blue and purple.

For those who appreciate the timeless elegance of Chanel but desire a contemporary twist, the iridescent Flap with Top Handle offers a perfect blend. The play of light on the lambskin creates a subtle shimmer that changes with movement, ensuring the bag stands out in any crowd. Whether paired with a tailored suit or a casual ensemble, this bag elevates any outfit, making it a worthy investment for fashion-forward individuals.

In conclusion, while Fendi First and Dior Caro are strong contenders, the Chanel Flap with Top Handle in iridescent finishes is arguably the most coveted It-bag of the season. Its unique combination of classic design and modern iridescence captures the spirit of A/W 2021, making it a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike.