While these IT bags are designed and marketed for women, their epicene silhouette transcends gender, with many men confidently incorporating them into their wardrobes
There was a time when “A man with a handbag? That’s emasculating” was a common refrain. Fast-forward to 2026, and bags have become a key accessory in the modern man’s wardrobe—offering everyday utility while elevating his fit.
Here are some iconic silhouettes that have earned a place in many wardrobes—and on countless wishlists.
Chanel Maxi Flap Bag
Arguably the defining bag of 2026—regardless of what the remainder of the year brings—the Chanel Maxi Flap Bag earned icon status almost overnight. It became an instant sensation the moment it debuted on the runway, with demand surging before it had even reached boutiques.
Designed by Matthieu Blazy, Chanel’s newly appointed Creative Director, the Maxi Flap marks his first handbag silhouette for the maison. While it draws inspiration from the house’s iconic Flap Bag, Blazy reimagines the classic with a softer, more contemporary sensibility. In place of Chanel’s signature diamond quilting is supple grained calfskin, giving the bag an intentionally unstructured, slouchy silhouette—a design language that has come to define 2026’s biggest handbag trends. Finished with a slim, adjustable leather strap and generously proportioned to fit a 15-inch laptop, the Maxi Flap balances practicality with understated luxury, making it as functional as it is desirable.
Bottega Veneta Medium Andiamo
Matthieu Blazy has a proven knack for creating covetable handbags. During his tenure at Bottega Veneta, he introduced the Andiamo—Italian for “Let’s go”—a silhouette that embodies the House’s “craft in motion” philosophy. Much like the Chanel Maxi Flap, the Andiamo doesn’t rely on overt logos or conspicuous branding to make an impression. Instead, its understated elegance and exceptional craftsmanship exemplify the quiet luxury that continues to resonate with discerning consumers.
Although it debuted three years ago, the Andiamo remains a favourite among both men and women. Woven using Bottega Veneta’s signature Intrecciato technique—rendered here in a double-faced construction for enhanced structure and flexibility—the bag is a masterclass in reinterpreting the House’s heritage for the modern wardrobe. Every element is purposeful, from the sculptural brass knot that serves as both a distinctive design signature and a functional fastening for the straps.
The braided leather strap glides effortlessly through the brass knot, allowing the Andiamo to transition seamlessly from a top-handle bag to a shoulder or crossbody style. Inside, thoughtful design continues with a magnetic frame closure that opens to a compartmentalised, lambskin-lined interior. Spacious enough to accommodate a 13-inch MacBook alongside daily essentials, it strikes an ideal balance between craftsmanship, versatility, and practicality.
Balenciaga Large Rodeo Handbag
If the Andiamo defined the era of quiet luxury, the Balenciaga Rodeo ushered in a new wave of relaxed sophistication. First introduced under Demna, the Rodeo quickly became one of the house’s most coveted accessories, celebrated for its understated design and effortless wearability. Eschewing Balenciaga’s traditionally bold, logo-driven aesthetic, the Rodeo embraces a more restrained approach—one that lets its impeccable construction and supple leather speak for themselves.
Crafted from smooth calfskin, the Rodeo is distinguished by its softly structured silhouette, designed to develop a lived-in character with wear.
Perhaps its most distinctive feature is the unconventional construction of its bulging front compartment, which lends the bag an effortlessly nonchalant character—as though keeping your belongings secure were almost an afterthought. For those who prefer a little more reassurance, however, it is fitted with turn-lock closures.
Equal parts polished and practical, the spacious interior easily accommodates a laptop alongside daily essentials, making it as suited to the office as it is to weekend outings. It’s little wonder the Rodeo has become a favourite among fashion insiders and one of the defining “if you know, you know” bags of recent years.
