These 16 summer bags worn by Rihanna and Emily Ratajkowski are the real fashion investments of 2026

In 2026, choosing an iconic bag is almost an act of style in itself. The summer bags come from houses as diverse as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Hermès and Miu Miu – and each tells a different story, between revisited archives and new silhouettes.

Big returns and new icons among the bags for summer 2026

Some models are making a comeback after years of absence. Saint Laurent’s Mombasa, which became an icon in 2002, has resurfaced thanks to Anthony Vaccarello, who drew directly from the house’s archives. Its half-moon silhouette and recognizable handle are seductive once again, especially in the version sublimated with a leopard motif.

Chloé’s Paddington also has a second life. First imagined in 2004 by Phoebe Philo and worn at the time by Kate Moss and Sienna Miller, it is now available in grained leathers in shades of brown, khaki, burgundy or blue/gray. Chemena Kamali’s signature charms enrich this classic.

However, not all the models to remember are comebacks. Balenciaga’s Bowling Bolero, from Pierpaolo Piccioli’s first show for the house, is the new object of desire for Spring/Summer 2026. Designed in smooth calf leather with a nappa lambskin lining, it is inspired by the bags in which bowlers carry their equipment.

“What if we treated ourselves to the iconic bag that will follow us throughout 2026?”

Half-moon silhouettes and animal motifs top the list

The half-moon shape is establishing itself as one of summer’s most popular bags. Miu Miu’s Wander, in quilted nappa leather, embodies this trend with retro charm and an almost infinite palette of colors. And Celine’s Halfmoon – a newcomer to the family of cult models alongside the Louise and Triomphe – is about to enjoy its moment of glory.

Animal prints are also still very much in evidence. Ferragamo has infused the zebra motif into its Hug bag, bringing a graphic style to the model. Its adjustable, removable shoulder strap makes it particularly practical for everyday use.

• Saint Laurent’s Mombasa in leopard print – €3,900
• Balenciaga’s Bowling Bolero Mini in smooth calf leather – €2,600
• Miu Miu’s Wander in quilted nappa leather – €2,300
• Ferragamo’s Hug in two-tone zebra pattern – €3,200
• Le Halfmoon soft Triomphe de Celine – €2,800

Archives reinterpreted for summer bags

Heritage plays a central role in the artistic directors’ choices this season. Louis Vuitton’s L’Express, unveiled by Nicolas Ghesquière on the Autumn-Winter 2025-2026 catwalk, takes its name from the very first Speedy bag in the 1930s. Its supple silhouette and leather straps are inspired by the company’s iconic Keepall model.

At Dior, Jonathan Anderson chose the bow as the common thread for the new Bow bag. This motif appears on several of the house’s archive pieces, including the 1957 haute couture dress Sans Souci. What’s more, the artistic director has dressed these new It bags in soft, poetic pastel colors, for a result that’s both classic and modern.

Chanel’s 2.55 has also been revised. For his first runway show, Matthieu Blazy worked this iconic model to give it a vintage look, as if it had already lived and stood the test of time. The silhouette, however, remains faithful to the original.

Gucci’s Giglio and Fendi’s Peekaboo, two models with strong character

Gucci’s Giglio was unveiled for the first time on the catwalk of the Cruise 2026 fashion show. This tote pays homage to the fleur-de-lis, the symbol of Florence, and features the iconic GG canvas and a lining with the Diamante motif from the archives. Sienna Miller and Emily Ratajkowski have already adopted it.

Fendi’s Peekaboo, created in 2009, continues to reinvent itself. The current version is designed in mahogany leather and features two compartments, one of which is entirely embroidered with sequins. Over 40 hours of work went into making the bag, which retails at €7,500.

Summer bags: practical designs and exceptional choices

The Tavistock by Burberry is one of the most practical bags of the summer, with its three compartments and equestrian inspiration. Its Burberry Check finish and Knight emblem on the front give it a strong, instantly recognizable identity.

Loewe’s Amazona 31, crafted in glossy leather with vintage accents, boasts a sober, desirable rectangular shape. This re-edited model is set to share the same fate as its predecessor: best-seller status.

For those seeking the ultimate exception among summer bags, the Della Cavalleria Élan by Hermès meets all expectations. Inspired by equestrianism, it features a clasp inspired by the Verdun demi-mors, a curved cut and accordion gussets, for a price of €5, 900. Also, Valentino Garavani’s Panthea – worn by Rihanna, Bella Hadid and Anne Hathaway – seduces with its handle jewels in the shape of a feline’s head, a symbol initiated at the Autumn-Winter 1967-1968 haute couture show. Finally, Prada’s Wish clutch, in silk duchesse and priced at €950, offers a refined and unexpected alternative for carrying just the essentials.

• summer bags