There’s a new power color in your fall wardrobe—and no, it’s not black.
This season, rich shades of brown are taking over—from statement coats to soft knits to the everyday handbags you’ll be seeing everywhere. Brown is officially the color of the season.
In this post, I’m focusing on brown bags—because they’re having a major moment (and I have a strong feeling they’re not going anywhere anytime soon). There are so many stunning options you’ll reach for again and again—from sleek leather totes to ultra-luxe suede styles (especially on-trend this season), to croc-embossed beauties that feel polished and sophisticated.
I’ve rounded up three standout picks—for every budget—that I know you’re going to love.
Huge thank you to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you’re ready to simplify and elevate your style this season, check out my expertly curated Fall Capsule Wardrobe here!
fall’s chicest handbags
#1 – Budget-Friendly: Madewell Essential Bucket Tote
If you love the brown handbag trend, but don’t want to splurge, the Madewell Bucket Tote in Chocolate Raisin is the perfect entry point. The rich, warm shade feels elevated and seasonal, while the soft leather gives it a luxe look well beyond its price tag.
It’s roomy enough to hold all your essentials without feeling bulky, and the slim silhouette hugs close to the body—making it ideal for everyday use.
I’ve had mine for over a year, and it’s truly become my go-to grab-and-go bag. It’s especially great for travel, everyday errands, and even busy teachers who need something stylish and functional.
This is one of those bags you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again throughout fall and winter—a chic, practical way to tap into the season’s must-have trend.
#2 – Mid-Priced: rag & bone Mercer Suede Hobo
f you’re looking for an everyday handbag that feels both timeless and trend-forward, the rag & bone Mercer Hobo is a standout. The soft brown suede is very on-trend for fall, offering a rich texture that instantly elevates any outfit—while the relaxed hobo silhouette keeps it casual and wearable.
I especially love the brass hardware with the suede—it adds just the right amount of polish. And because it sits close to the body, it’s easy to carry and feels sleek, not bulky.
This one is definitely one of my favorite bags of the season. It’s the kind of piece you’ll carry on repeat—whether you’re headed to brunch, the office, or just running around town.
#3 – Splurge: Toteme T-Lock Top Handle Bag
If you’re anything like me, you might feel a little turned off by luxury goods right now. Sunglasses for over $1,000? Handbags for well over $5,000? The prices are, frankly, out of control. With Chanel, Dior, and Bottega bags climbing into the five-figure range, it feels almost impossible to justify the investment without serious sticker shock.
That’s why I’ve been gravitating toward contemporary luxury labels that offer incredible quality at far more accessible prices. One standout is Toteme. Their T-Lock Croc Embossed Leather Top Handle Bag delivers the same high-end craftsmanship and sophisticated design as the heritage houses — but at a more reasonable price point. Structured, sleek, and fashion-editor approved, it’s the definition of understated luxury. The glossy croc embossing is perfectly on-trend yet timeless, making this a piece you’ll carry for years to come. A true investment… without the jaw-dropping markup.
how to style brown bags right now
One of the easiest and most chic ways to wear your brown bag is with a monochromatic look. Head-to-toe chocolate brown is not only slimming and incredibly flattering, it also feels modern and fresh.
For these looks, I styled each bag with a knit maxi dress by Maje and the Maryana Slouch Boots from Schutz. The cable-knit dress is designed to flatter: the silver snaps down the front create a long vertical line that elongates and slims, while the slightly flared skirt adds shape and balance while also slimming the hips, butt, and thighs. The mid-calf, slouchy boots bring in just the right amount of edge — and their shaft height is perfect with this dress.
I also added in these dark brown tortoise sunglasses that are modern, and make the whole world look a little bit golden. (Bonus, they are super affordable!)
But don’t stop at monochrome. The beauty of a brown handbag is its versatility. These bags pair beautifully with everything from jeans to trousers, skirts, dresses, and can even elevate your athleisure looks.
And yes—you can wear brown with black. In fact, pairing a rich brown bag with black booties or a leather jacket creates a look that’s incredibly chic and very now.
Bottom line? A brown handbag is more than just a trend—it’s a smart, stylish staple that works with everything in your wardrobe. They truly are one of the smartest style updates of the season.
Brown Bag Questions, Answered
Q: Are brown handbags as versatile as black?
A: Absolutely! Brown is just as versatile as black, but right now feels even more modern. A chocolate or espresso bag works with everything from jeans to tailored trousers and even evening dresses. And yes — brown pairs beautifully with black, camel, cream, navy, and more. You can’t go wrong with these chic handbags.
Q: Can I wear a brown handbag year-round?
A: Yes — with a few styling tweaks. Brown feels especially chic in fall and winter, but leather and croc-embossed styles work beautifully year-round. In spring and summer, simply skip heavy textures like suede and pair your brown bag with lighter fabrics and fresh colors like cream, white, or pastels. It’s a little trickier than black, but definitely doable — and it looks incredibly modern when styled well.
Q: Why are suede and croc-embossed bags trending?
A: Texture is one of the biggest handbag trends right now, and suede and croc-embossed finishes instantly add depth and richness to any outfit. Suede feels especially luxe for fall—and ties in beautifully with the resurgence of elevated boho style, which we’re seeing everywhere right now: on celebrities, content creators, and in street style. Croc-embossing, on the other hand, brings structure and polish. It’s classic, elegant, and makes even the simplest outfit look more refined. Both are stylish ways to lean into the brown bag trend while adding a modern, on-trend twist.
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the verdict—brown bags have staying power
If you’re adding just one new accessory this season, make it a brown bag. It’s refined, wearable, and one of the easiest way to modernize your everyday outfits.
