We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Puffer Bags Are This Season's Most Pleasingly Practical Accessory Trend
Introducing the comfiest arm candy ever
The show seasons in London, New York, Paris and Milan are an aesthetic feast for every accessories obsessive: and for SS24, there were new statement-makers at every turn. But the one we're jumping on right away? It has to be the rise of the cosy, quilted puffer bag.
Soft, pillowy silhouettes were spotted on the shoulders of the street-style set, and on the runways at Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Miu Miu: the latter of which has brought its beloved Matelassé quilting back out of the archives. (Got a vintage relik? You're quids in).
But the puffer bag's popularity precedes this recent redux: Chanel's lambskin Bubble Quilt debuted back in 2007, certifying the playful style as a high-luxury proposition. Since then, the progenitor of the quilted handbag has inspired other major designs, including Maison Margiela's Glam Slam pillow bag and Saint Laurent's Loulou quilted bag, both launched in 2017. But it wasn't until Daniel Lee released a puffed-up version of Bottega Veneta's signature intrecciato weave – the Cassette bag – in Autumn/Winter 2019 that an 'It' bag (and an 'It' designer) was born.
Much like the cocooning puffer coat, the appeal of a puffy bag rests in its ability to evoke comfort and ease. The satisfyingly squishy design provides an antithesis to fashion's modus operandi of a sleek and svelte silhouette, and proves that style is not limited to how we look, but is also heavily influenced by how we feel: and sometimes, we just want to indulge our softer side.
Ahead, we've scoured the shops to bring you the fashion insider's edit of the very best quilted, padded, and puffer bags to buy right now: from Bottega Veneta's trend-birthing shoulder bag to the latest puffy styles from the likes of Jacquemus, Miu Miu and Prada. And on the high street? There are heroes to be had there too: just look to Jw Pei and Cos.
The Puffer Bags To Satisfy Your Softer Side This Spring
Watch Next
Wide-Leg Jeans Are A Spring Style Saviour
Welcome To The Denim Cargo Pant 2.0
The Fine Art Of The Summer Jacket
This A-List Are Obsessed With This Affordable Bag