The best purse trend for back-to-school 2025? That would be the return of the satchel school bag, for sure. A look that’s both studious and sharp, the accessory is defined by its double strap front flap closure and ability to be worn cross-body. Unlike a briefcase, a satchel is soft on the sides. It’s comfortable, it fits a whole lot of stuff, and it has a British flair that’s totally in line with the return of barn jackets and other classically Brit aesthetics. Which is why we aren’t too surprised to see it making a comeback for fall.
We’ve spotted classic versions on celebrities like Anne Hathaway (while filming The Devil Wears Prada sequel). At the most recent Copenhagen Fashion Week, Caro Editions even unveiled a cheerfully colorful version with pink rhinestones and maxi bows.
Caro Editions spring-summer 2026
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Alexa Chung in 2009
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Of course, this isn’t the satchel school bag’s first time as a style star. It was a staple of the 2010s wardrobe, thanks in large part to forever style icon Alexa Chung—so much so that Mulberry even named its leather satchel after her. The Alexa bag retails for a cool $1,595 if you’d like to pick up her namesake.
As for now, it seems the satchel school bag has a bright future ahead of it. For a modern twist, grab one in an unexpected color, like forest green. If you’re looking for more of an investment piece, then simplicity is in order with classic black or brown.
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A version of this article was previously published in Vogue Italy.
