With the return of boho to the runways, fall’s studded bag trend is proving to be one of the resurgence’s most versatile elements. The addition of simple metal grommets and studs transforms otherwise classic bag silhouettes completely, adding both a modern edge and a jewelry-like touch of embellishment.
On the spectrum of trendy bags for 2025, this one sits squarely between classic and cool. It’s highly wearable, while still having the sartorial intrigue to take your simple jeans and white tee up a notch. Especially in the context of other ’70s-inspired trends like floaty dresses and Western boots, a studded suede bag feels like an easy way to tap into the look without undergoing a head-to-toe Woodstock makeover.
Alessandro Michele’s spring-summer 2025 Valentino collection featured a slew of studded shoulder bags, as worn by It girls like Alexa Chung and Bella Hadid. Other designer labels like Khaite, Chloé, and Isabel Marant have put their own unique spins on the trend—whether leaning minimalist, CBGB-coded, or Y2K boho.
As someone who spent her teenage years embracing the early aughts take on boho, I’m loving how sophisticated and sleek this revival feels. Unlike the return of bubble hems, I am not personally horrified by the studded bags’ triumphant return. In fact, I’m already picking out my favorite takes to incorporate into my wardrobe. Below, I picked out four key takes on the studded bag trend, from designer labels and affordable brands alike, to help you get a head start on your fall shopping.
Valentino spring-summer 2025
Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Getty Images
Alexa Chung
Ilya S. Savenok
Slouchy studded bags
Whether it be soft suede or a classic leather, a studded bag with a slouchy disposition is the fall anecdote to heavy layers and structured tailoring. Whether you’re shopping for an elegant everyday tote bag or a studded leather shoulder bag for nights and weekends — something slouchy is the answer (and it will look great when styled back to your suede jacket and favorite jeans).
Madewell Mylie Studded Suede Shoulder Bag
Valentino Garavani Nellcote Bag
Studded saddle bags
Right in line with the return of the boho trend, rounded saddle bag silhouettes are popping up on the runways and the street. One easy way to embrace the trend is by leaning into the equestrian vibes — think structured boots, jeans, and a tailored blazer. For this silhouette, I’m partial to studs that are a bit more minimal — what I see as a more restrained approach to this playful trend. In fact, for those who’s personal style leans more quiet luxury, this subtle approach feels like the best way to test the waters (before you embrace full-on paisley of course).
AllSaints Leather Saddle Bag
East-west studded bags
Thanks to Alaia, the east-west shape — longer than it is tall, is still a silhouette you’ll find tucked under the arms of your favorite trendsetters. While it’s not exactly a practical everyday tote if you’re carrying around a laptop, it’s the perfect size for nights out when all you need is your phone, wallet, and your favorite lipstick. Studded details add a touch of edge to this otherwise demure shape, which makes it ideal for styling with rocker staples like moto boots and a leather jacket.
Anthropologie Studded Shoulder Bag
Y2K studded bags
The early aughts take of boho — defined by mini dresses worn over flared jeans, chunky belts, and platform sandals, also had its own studded bag moment — less punk rock and more pop princess (Britney Spears and Nicole Richie helped to define the era’s style). Fresh designs from emerging cool-girl labels like Gimaguas and the return of Balenciaga’s beloved Le City bag are sure signs that the trend is back and perhaps better than ever. Now all you need is a low-slung belt and oversized sunnies to finish off your accessorizing.
