Harry Styles Shows That ‘It-bags’ Are Not Just for Women
EDITOR’S NOTE: Featuring the good, the bad, and the ugly, ‘Look of the Week’ is a regular series that delves into the most talked-about outfit of the past seven days.
In this week’s spotlight, fashion editors and influencers alike turned green with envy as Harry Styles made a striking appearance with a coveted accessory: a maxi leopard print Chanel flap bag. The bag, designed by Chanel’s new artistic director, Matthieu Blazy, instantly became a talking point not just for its high fashion pedigree, but for its rarity and desirability.
Styles’ choice of handbag boldly showcased his possession of one of the most sought-after items in today’s luxury fashion landscape, first unveiled at Chanel’s Metiers d’art show in New York. The bag has rapidly earned the status of an “It-bag,” signifying its place as a must-have accessory among fashion aficionados.
Since Blazy’s inaugural ready-to-wear collection dropped last weekend, the challenge of obtaining one of his creations has become a hot topic. Kaelen Haworth, a stylist and owner of Absolutely Fabrics in Toronto, described the Chanel boutique on Rue Cambon as “A SCENE” during her visit for Paris Fashion Week, dubbing the frenzy “Shoppers Gone Feral.” Coverage by The New York Times also highlighted the overwhelming demand, calling it “mayhem,” as customers scrambled for the new offerings.
Despite numerous successful purchases shared across social media, Chanel’s soft maxi flap bag remains one of the hardest items to acquire, reportedly due to limited availability. This dynamic has led some customers to speculate that Chanel may be adopting strategies akin to Hermès, whose exclusive access to iconic products like the Birkin and Kelly bags enhances their desirability. Styles’ latest outfit thus carries an air of exclusivity understood only by the most fashion-savvy.
Historically, many iconic bags—such as the Chanel 2.55 introduced in the 1950s, the Dior Saddle Bag in 1999, and the Celine Luggage tote in 2010—have predominantly been worn by women, who have long been the dominant force in luxury spending. However, a new generation of male celebrities is now challenging these norms, investing in stylish bags that transcend traditional, understated options.
Fashion-forward figures such as Jacob Elordi, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams have not only normalized the carrying of high-end bags but have also embraced eclectic styles. Elordi, for instance, has been spotted with a variety of Bottega Veneta bags, including the Andiamo and the padded Cassette. Other celebrities, including Bad Bunny and Kit Connor, have also been seen with striking choices from Gucci and JW Anderson, respectively. Timothée Chalamet has gained attention for his fondness for mini-purses.
As more men embrace bags as essential fashion statements rather than mere utilitarian items, this trend marks a significant shift in addressing stereotypes and expanding expressions of masculinity. However, this evolution also intensifies the competition for women in acquiring their cherished It-bags.
