The East-West Handbag Is All the Rage Summer 2025: See Our Favorites

East-West bags, born in the 1950s and characterized by a horizontal and elongated silhouette that extends laterally with respect to the handle or shoulder strap, have emerged lately as a ruling purse trend. Such remained the case on recent runways, as the stretched handbag was an undisputed protagonist on Spring/Summer 2025 runways. This ongoing trend favors the linearity of the shapes and an essential aesthetic, and some designers really nailed the look.

With their slender shape, east-west bags represent a synthesis of elegance and functionality, perfectly in line with the needs of a dynamic but stylistically aware everyday life. Labels such as Prada and Jil Sander interpret their essence through fine materials and clean lines, while Alaïa opts for extra-long handles, emphasizing the versatility of an accessory that adapts to the contemporary rhythm.

The variety of proposals includes structured clutches in shiny leather and softer models in suede, enriched with metallic details and crocodile prints. Some verge on being an East-West tote. Designed to effortlessly cross the transition from day to evening, these bags guarantee a balanced capacity and a discreet but distinctive style. Their tapered shape makes them ideal to carry under the arm or on the shoulder, adding a touch of timeless refinement. They're timeless like the Chanel 2.55 model, the iconic bag created by Mademoiselle Gabrielle Coco Chanel in 1955.

The color palette reflects the dualism between sobriety and boldness: from neutral tones such as beige and light gray, perfect for the warm season, to the more intense shades of burgundy and olive green. Or the kaleidoscope of color proposals of the Fendi Baguette, the elongated it-bag par excellence. A balance of classicism and modernity that consolidates the East-West bag as a sartorial investment capable of resisting the fluctuations of time.

The Best Designer East-West Bags to Have in Your Summer 2025 Wardrobe

Keep scrolling to see the best East-West handbags to keep handy this summer, including clutches and tote-like options. Plus, shop our favorite picks from designers like Bottega Veneta, Jacquemus, and more.