e would like to deliver this very important PSA to anyone sweating their AW22 handbag game: guess what, you don’t really need to buy a new expensive piece to look stylish. You probably own some of the styles that are back, and if you really fancy something you see, well, the purse store is your oyster.

In this economy, the one thing we will advocate for is buying local. We would also suggest purchasing anything in materials that will last you a while. The lower the churn rate of objects in your closet, the less waste you create. Of course this means that the items in question might cost a little more than you’d like, but it also means they’ll last you longer.

Okay, now on to our observations based off SS23 predictions as brought around by New York Fashion Week in September. Everything will be acceptable, come 2023, which means you can be an early adapter and start carrying the trends now.

The shocking revelation here is obviously that one brand might prefer the tiny clutch, while another may favor the oversize tote.

Our note: don’t overthink it, wear what makes you feel good. If you do want to add a cute piece or two to your arsenal, here’s what Instep’s looking at right now.

Jafferjees

The sensible handbag

You know what? You’ll just never go wrong with a structured handbag in a primary like blue or in a neutral such as white, or tan. That is just one of the rules of life and you know exactly what we’re saying.

Kuku Store

The oversize clutch

The other rule of life is to always have a nice squishy purse you can throw everything you own into and still walk out the door looking like you have everything together.

Khaadi

The neon/tote

Pet two birds with one hand, and make the always-essential tote a neon one.

Outfitters

The shoulder bag

The tiny little armpit bags we thought we had said goodbye to forever are back – this one looks cute and comfy, and like it has room for more than a tiny phone.