Along with many other things, the New Year presents an opportunity to review the state of our wardrobes, ensuring the ensembles we plan to wear align with the values that we hold, the goals we want to achieve, and overall, the 2023 versions of ourselves we want to be.
With a fresh clean slate, it's the perfect time to invest in a chic new bag to carry into the New Year with support and confidence, whilst leaving any unwanted (proverbial) baggage back in 2022.
Regarding key trends for the year, soft shapes are here to stay for the seasons ahead - comforting styles that can snuggle easily under your arm, sit comfortably in your hand or sling nonchalantly over the body.
For the colour palette, in addition to the core classics like black and tan, there are two key categories that echo the ready-to-wear collections.
Choose from angelic pastels - think pale blue, baby pink and lovely lilac for a pop of delicate colour with your favourite outfits, or pick colours taken from nature - think clay, burnt sand, rose and sage that pair beautifully with almost everything.
Read on to learn about our top five picks for the year, all available online now, or in store at No. 8 Faraday Street.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
The Flap Bag
Touted by industry insiders as one of the best new bags of 2022, the Loewe Puffy Goya remains an enduring favourite this year, as future season arrivals from the house continue on with this inflated leather style.
Loved by the likes of Leonie Hanne and Dua Lipa, logo-layer yours now with an Anagram tank and the designer's crisp denim jeans, or sling over a large fluffy coat like Leonie, come winter.
The Hobo Bag
Hobo bags are set to become a must-have style over the next few years, with many fashion houses releasing a version to suit their individual design codes; the Loewe Luna Bag is a particularly beautiful and well-crafted example.
As seen on every fashion insider's arm over the past few months is the Givenchy U-Lock Hobo. Available in this season's pastel shades as well as classic black at Faradays, the Hobo is already becoming a cult classic in this ultra-wearable category.
Wear with utilitarian inspired trousers and an everyday tee a-la Karlie Kloss, or pair with a gorgeous evening dress as seen on the official Givenchy runway.
The Evening Bag
Originally thought to be a seasonal limited edition design by the heritage Maison, the Alaïa Heart Bag (or 'Le Coeur' for those who prefer its official French name), became such a worldwide hit that creative director, Pieter Mulier decided to make it part of Alaïa's permanent offering in mid 2022.
Since then, the love for Le Coeur has only grown, as has the offering of colourways and finishes.
Wear yours this summer with a shirt and mini-skirt combo, as seen on Elsa Hosk, or over your favourite LBD for a dinner date with loved ones.
The Tote Bag
Practical and sleek, Christian Louboutin's Cabata Tote is one of the Parisian designer's best selling bags year-on-year for a reason.
Large enough to corral all of your cumbersome essentials including a laptop, makeup bag and umbrella (a must-have if you live in Auckland, Melbourne or any other city with equally unpredictable climes!), the red lining ensures items are easy to find, and the bag includes a clever mini pouch, ensuring smaller items are kept safe.
Wear with your next airport-bound ensemble - you'll fit everything you need and more, whilst keeping your athleisure looking chic.
The 'All Occasions' Bag
There's a reason why our waitlist is always long for this style; no bag will work harder in your wardrobe than a Loewe Flamenco.
Choose a core colour like black or tan, and invest in the brand's detachable chic gold donut chain - you'll then have a versatile piece that will take you from day to night at almost every occasion, and you'll never feel over or under dressed.
Even better, this lightweight bag travels exceptionally well - its malleable shape in supple leather means it can be packed with ease.
