As we settle into autumn, the handbag world is buzzing with new launches, auction records, and trend revivals. Here’s your roundup of the most exciting bag news making headlines this October—complete with insights on why they matter.
1. Trader Joe’s Viral Mini Totes Are Back
One of the biggest surprise stories this October is the return of Trader Joe’s mini canvas totes—those $2.99 bags that once went viral.
Fans rejoice: the holiday styles (black, orange, purple, even multicoloured) are set to restock starting October 8. The bag’s cult status and rapid sell-outs have fueled resell prices in the past, with listings reaching as high as $999.
Why it matters: This go-low, go-viral bag shows how even a humble tote can become a cultural phenomenon when scarcity, affordability, and social media collide.
2. Coles Teams Up with Anya Hindmarch for Designer Reusable Bag
In Australia, supermarket chain Coles dropped a limited-edition reusable shopping bag in collaboration with designer Anya Hindmarch—priced at $20.
Part of a global movement to elevate reusable bags, the design gives everyday sustainability a fashion edge. As Hindmarch’s “Universal Bag” has become a statement in the UK, this launch further bridges retail and design.
Why it matters: It reflects a growing trend where functional bags (even grocery totes) carry branding and design value—something to watch for crossovers in local markets.
3. Bella Hadid Debuts Coach’s Newest Tabby Bag
Supermodel Bella Hadid kicked off Paris Fashion Week by debuting the Coach Tabby 26, a new iteration of the brand’s signature flap-style bag.
The launch is notable for combining distressed glove-tanned leather, a magnetic flap, and versatile straps. Style editors argue it’s one of the must-watch bag releases this season.
Why it matters: When high-profile faces take center stage with new bags, it can drive immediate visibility and influence what we’ll see on streets—and in seasons ahead.
4. AKINNA Puts Indian Handbag Craft on the Global Stage
Luxury Indian brand AKINNA made waves at Milan Fashion Week, debuting their handcrafted leather handbags to international audiences.
Founded by designers Annika Saraf and Sanchit Goyal, AKINNA’s appearance is a strong signal that regional craftsmanship is poised for global demand.
Why it matters: The global fashion world is increasingly spotlighting localized luxury—expect more crossovers between niche designers and international retailers.
5. Auction Record: Jane Birkin’s Original Bag Fetches Millions
In a record-setting moment, the original Hermès Birkin bag once owned by Jane Birkin sold at auction for €8.6 million (roughly £7.4 million), making it the most expensive handbag ever sold.
Though the bag showed signs of wear, its provenance, rarity, and legendary status drove the price into the stratosphere.
Why it matters: This sale reinforces how handbags are more than accessories—they’re cultural and investment objects. For collectors and fashion historians alike, it’s a reminder of the “halo” power around iconic designs.
6. Leopard-Print Bags Roar Back into Trend
The trend watchers are calling it: leopard-print handbags are having a revival for Fall 2025.
What’s interesting is not just the comeback itself, but how designers are modernising the print—toned-down palettes, mixed materials, fresh proportions.
Why it matters: Trend cycles are ever-evolving, and seeing this revival signals that fashion houses are leaning into “wild” motifs without going full maximalist.
7. Ferragamo Dares with Chartreuse Bags in 1920s-Inspired Show
At Milan Fashion Week, Ferragamo unveiled co-ed looks infused with 1920s glamour—accented by chartreuse-coloured bags and shoes.
The pops of vivid green across leather accessories added an unexpected punch to the period-inspired collection.
Why it matters: Colour trends in bags often ripple into seasonal palettes. Chartreuse might well become the “it accent” hue for accessories in winter collections.
What These Headlines Tell Us: Key Themes for October
A. Scarcity + Storytelling = Buzz
From Trader Joe’s mini totes to Birkin’s auction record, scarcity and storytelling remain irresistible. Limited drops, iconic provenance, and cultural narratives all elevate the ordinary into headline territory.
B. Design Meets Utility—Even in Reusable Bags
The Coles x Hindmarch collaboration shows that functional bags (shopping totes, reusable bags) are no longer just utilitarian—they’re branding, identity, and design objects too.
C. Regional Voices Enter Global Stage
AKINNA’s Milan debut is part of a broader shift: regional designers (from India, Africa, Latin America) are being amplified on global runways. Expect more cross-border collaborations and new names in leather goods.
D. Trend Reboots & Colour Surprises
The resurgence of leopard print, plus bold colour choices like chartreuse, illustrate how cyclical trends—and surprise tones—shape buyer attention. Bag trends always reflect both nostalgia and the push for the new.
Bottom line: October 2025 is reminding us that the handbag world thrives on stories: of scarcity, style revivals, design crossovers, and the intersection between function and aspiration. From auction houses to supermarket aisles, bags are making headlines for every reason from luxury to utility.
