No other bag has arguably crafted a legacy and universal, instantaneous recognisability quite as much as the Chanel 2.55. Created by the legendary Coco Chanel in the month of February in 1955 (thereby giving rise to its moniker), the bag’s most defining details lies with its diamond lattice quilted stitching – a design picked up by the keen sighted Chanel after observing the jackets worn by male equestrians at elite horse races back in her day. The quilted stitching technique has since come to become an iconic signature of the House.
Other brands such as Gucci and Saint Laurent have also recurrently employed the quilting technique in crafting many of their signature bags, reaffirming the quilted bag’s position as a luxurious, elegant accessory covetable by many.
The appeal of quilted bags may be due to their timeless elegance and effortless sophistication. Throwing on a cross-body quilt-stitched purse makes a simple t-shirt-and-jeans ensemble look significantly more polished and put together. In other words, it’s a wardrobe staple.
To add, the recent runways have started to feature a slew of soft, puffy quilted bags, serving up the hug-on-the-go pillowy bags as a new contemporary direction for the classic receptacle. Sporting slouchier structures and puffed up textures, the onset of these trending totes are sure to cater to those with a minimalist palette.
Kickstart your holiday wishlist with some of our favourite top picks of the season. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the most fashionable quilted bags to be seen in for the year 2020 and beyond.
Photo: Farfetch, Matchesfashion, Maison Margiela and Luisaviaroma
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Part of Michael Kors holiday 2019 gift guide, this mustard yellow quilted shoulder bag is a surprising pop of colour among its winterly peers.
We love this bag for its off-season versatility and contemporary-chic. Pair it with an all black outfit or shades in the primary colour for a cheery #OOTD.
Photo: Michael Kors
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Of course, any round-up of quilted bags would not be complete without the inclusion of a Chanel receptacle.
Reimagined in denim, a playful tongue-in-cheek rendition of the brad’s leather or tweed counterparts, this oversized denim bag features gold-tone hardware which offers an elevated twist to the casual vibe.
Team this with an oversized blazer and a pair of tailored shorts while clutching it to the side of your body with the nook of your arm for a relaxed styling.
Photo: Chanel
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Crafted in rich emerald green, Gucci’s cylindrical quilted bag embodies the brand’s knack for maximalist, ritzy pieces that are practically made to prevail as statement pieces of any wardrobe.
Designed with detachable gold-tone chain straps that are meant to wrap around the hips as a belt, this one-of-a-kind number is at the very top of our wishlist this festive season.
Photo: Farfetch
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Saint Laurent’s signature Loulou bag, characterised by its chevron quilted design, is reimagined in a supple, puffier shape.
Accentuated by a tonal “YSL” emblem down the classic envelope flap opening, we’d imagine this sleek shoulder bag finishing any party ensemble with finesse this holiday season.
Photo: Net-a-porter
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Employing a matelasse technique, Miu Miu channels a fun and youthful energy through this bubblegum pink foldover flap bag.
We love the use of shiny silver-tone hardware, in particular with the “Miu” logo stamped front and center, bringing to mind the brand’s love for opulent crystal detailing in a more subtle fashion.
Haul this alongside a bright patterned dress and platform boots for a whimsical approach to everyday dressing.
Photo: Farfetch
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A stunning metallic bronze mini crossbody bag by Givenchy is exactly what we need to kick off the holiday season with pizzazz.
Featuring a cute top handle, a detail that makes it look like a micro-purse, this luxurious bag also has multiple card compartments lined up internally. Did someone say, “perfect party bag”?
Photo: Farfetch
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Shaped into a nifty pouch-like silhouette with soft rounded edges, Maison Margiela’s plush Glam Slam clutch sees itself in sumptuous metallic silver with the House-signature logo tab that offers a modish contrast.
Fit for the experimental tastemakers who aren’t afraid to bend some rules, this eye-catching statement makes for the perfect holiday companion with its festive metallic shade.
Photo: Maison Margiela
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Weaving (quite literally) the brand’s hallmark Intrecciato technique with updated modern details, Bottega Veneta’s new season quilted leather bags sport a stylish pastel-blue hue and a structured dome shape.
Carry it as a clutch and allow the chain-link straps to drape down next to a minimalist knitted dress and a pair of jewel-toned mules for an effortless ‘90s-inspired look.
Photo: Matchesfashion
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Seen in a beautiful sage green shade, this chain-link strap bag is perfect for both the Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer seasons. Featuring a silver-tone hook fastening that gives it a subtle utilitarian edge, this versatile number has adjustable straps while allows it to be worn as either a cross-body bag or shoulder bag.
Team yours with a reflective gold dress for the holidays, or even with a blazer and a pair of tailored trousers for the office.
Photo: Farfetch
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Encrusted with multi-colored jewel stones in opulent tones, this quilted velvet bag brings the party to your wardrobe with its exuberant quality.
Crafted to a cylindrical shoulder bag silhouette reminiscent of the ‘90s, this number will team well with a slinky slip dress and a pair of kitten heeled mules.
Photo: Luisaviaroma
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Oversized and padded, for extra comfort just in case you’re thinking of utilising it as a handy little makeshift pillow during your morning commute, Dries Van Noten’s large tote has a slouchy silhouette that allows you to fold it and clench it under your arm just as the recent runways implore you to.
We’re styling this with an oversized coat, a simple button-down shirt and a structured woolen midi skirt.
Photo: Net-a-porter
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