Fashion Insiders Have Coined Brown Suede the Bag Trend of the Year—This One Style Gets Our Nomination

I will admit it: I did not think one bag trend would manage to unite fashion editors, street-stylers and my entire group chat this quickly, but here we are. Brown suede bags have quietly taken over this year, popping up everywhere from Paris Fashion Week pavements to coffee runs in East London. Somewhere along the way, brown has edged out black as the go-to neutral; it feels warmer, softer and a little more intentional right now. And then there is something about the suede texture that makes even the simplest outfit feel considered without trying too hard. It works with tailoring, denim, knitwear, trench coats—basically the whole wardrobe—which is why I am confidently calling it the bag of the season, and honestly, the year. One style in particular has stopped us mid-scroll: the Massimo Dutti Split Leather Maxi MD ICON Tote.

It is the kind of bag you spot once, then keep seeing everywhere. Our editor-in-chief Hannah Almassi is already a fan (and when Hannah commits to a bag, it usually means something), and it makes sense why. It feels directional without being shouty, luxe without the price tag spiralling, and very much in step with the whole quiet-luxury-but-make-it-practical mood right now. The warm brown suede, the oversized proportions and that unfussy silhouette make it the sort of piece you can build outfits around, not just carry as an afterthought.

On a practical level, it ticks all the boxes. The roomy tote shape fits a laptop, scarf, water bottle and whatever else you end up hauling around, while the lined interior keeps it feeling sturdy rather than slouchy. There is a discreet card pocket inside (always appreciated), plus both top handles and longer straps so you can wear it on your shoulder when your hands are full. It closes with an internal buckle rather than a zip, which gives it that relaxed, fashion-editor feel we all want right now. If you’re after a suede brown bag, this is the one to get your hand one. Shop it below along with some of our other favourite brown suede bags.