Meet the Pouch-Handbag Trend Only Chic People Are Wearing

If I had to describe the ethos behind how the chicest people are getting dressed right now, I’d say casual elegance is the overall mood. The growing aesthetic, so to speak, is defined by outfits that have a whiff of sophistication but are worn in a very nonchalant, effortless way. Think beautiful draped tops and floor-sweeping maxi skirts that are finished off with a drawstring pouch bag instead of a handbag that’s as stuffy as a clutch or a top-handle style.

In fact, pouch bags specifically are a through line linking many of the casually elegant outfits I’m talking about. You see, these bags occupy a sweet spot between relaxed and polished. A pouch bag is not for when you’re going for full-on cocktail or black-tie attire where you’d otherwise reach for a sleek clutch, but it’s also a little fancier than a shoulder bag that so often feels like a daytime-only piece. The concept of day-to-night dressing gets thrown around a lot in the digital space, but dare I say this is one trend that actually can bridge the gap between sunup and sundown? Based on how the tastemakers below are styling theirs (largely from accessories label Ayllón), I think you’ll agree.