The handbag is one of the most useful accessories available. The ability to cram all of our possessions in one place while we’re on the go is a fabulous invention, so, why do we deprive an entire half of the population of its endless benefits, just because we decided it is a ‘feminine accessory’? This is the question being pondered by male-identifying and non-binary celebs and designers throughout the fashion industry. As stars like Jacob Elordi decide to leave strict gender codes at home and step out in stylish bags, is this a sign we’re edging towards genderless fashion for good?
At the fall/winter 2022 fashion weeks, gender-neutral accessorising was at the forefront of the runways. Designers from Gucci to Dominnico dressed male-identifying models in glittering bralettes and logo-covered purses as a way to pledge their allegiance to the gender-neutral fashion movement. Speaking to Refinery-29, designer Ed Curtis explained that he and other fashion designers are waving goodbye to strict gender codes, claiming he ‘can’t think of a practical reason why an accessory would need to be for one gender’.
Off the runway, Euphoria star Jacob Elordi has been spotted donning the genderless accessory. Elordi wore the iconic padded Bottega Veneta bag to the fashion house’s AW22 show this season. The padded purse has been popular among female stars like Rihanna, but Elordi demonstrated that males can pull off the look just as well.
As an expert in gender-neutral dressing, Harry Styles has unsurprisingly been a major advocate for reducing the stigma around males wearing bags. The star has been spotted multiple times wearing his go-to ‘Jackie’ purse by Gucci, proving the timeless piece can look good on anyone regardless of gender identity.
As our attitudes towards gender shift, our approach to fashion has to move with it. Gone are the days of ridiculing people for how they choose to express themselves. Fashion is an expression and an art form, it is not exclusive to any gender and we’re excited to see the fashion industry is taking this memo on board.
To celebrate the rise of the gender-neutral bag, we’ve listed our favourite gender-inclusive accessories below!
Luar Black Small Bag
Last year, Luar’s owner Raul Lopez was in the media for creating the new ‘it bag’. His small leather bag with an exaggerated loop handle was favoured by celebs regardless of their gender identity. After being spotted on Troye Sivan and Dua Lipa, this bag has proven it can blend into any style: punk rocker, pop princess, man, woman, or other, this bag is the ultimate accessory.
The Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette purse is favoured by celebs regardless of their gender. The woven leather accessory is available in classic black shades as well as daring neons and sultry reds. While the purses are advertised in different styles for both genders, Jacob Elordi’s front row feat in the women’s purse demonstrates the accessory isn’t gender exclusive.
In a more affordable take on the little leather bag, Zara’s crossbody bag is equally as stylish and gender-inclusive as the high-end alternatives. Not advertised as being gender-specific, the casual bag can be styled with any outfit for a casual and convenient little black bag that compliments any look.
One DNA is a black and queer-owned company offering gender-neutral clothing that doesn’t discriminate. Offering logo-splashed totes and vintage gender-neutral bags, this label is the unrivalled place to shop un-gendered fashions. One DNA’s Vintage Kodak bag is the ultimate 80s accessory, in a tiny leather style and affordable price, this may be the gender-neutral accessory to beat.
This classic Gucci ‘Jackie’ purse is the go-to accessory for stars like Harry Styles. The star styled this bag with a fur coat for an all-out nighttime look on the Late Late Show. Harry has also been seen extending the Jackie strap over tan cords and a tee for a comfortable look that demonstrates the diversity and inclusivity of this little accessory.
Collusion pride themself on being a gender-neutral brand, their accessories like the ‘padded tote’ and ‘flight bag’ are the best way to accessorise without worrying about gender codes. The flight bag is a cross-body design perfect for a summer festival while their padded tote is ideal for carrying all your possessions on a long journey this spring.
Words by Olivia Booth
