If you’re ready to splurge a little, the hottest bag of the season is up for grabs: the bowling bag. This sporty yet chic accessory has taken over as fall’s must-have purse, thanks to trendsetting celebrities and runway appearances.
Back in December 2023, Bella Hadid stepped out with a cherry red Von Dutch bowler, a nod to the Y2K style revival that’s still going strong. Earlier this year, her sister Gigi Hadid carried a mini bowling bag from Miu Miu, solidifying the trend. On Miu Miu’s Spring 2024 runway, leather bowling carryalls were a central feature, while Coach showcased their colorful versions for the same season.
The trend isn’t limited to luxury brands. Affordable options from labels like Reformation and Mango have made the bowling bag accessible to everyday shoppers. One standout is the COS bowling bag, priced at $320, which has gone viral on TikTok. Fashion enthusiasts rave about the oversized carryall, often sharing their excitement before it inevitably sells out within hours of a restock.
TikTok creator Polly Dunseath loves the bag so much she owns it in multiple colors, including black leather, burgundy, and brown suede. Many fans even consider it a budget-friendly alternative to The Row’s Margaux bag—a minimalist shoulder bag with a strikingly similar design but a much heftier price tag. “It gives The Row vibes,” one TikTok user commented.
The bowling bag’s popularity aligns with the rise of “quiet luxury” or “stealth wealth,” a style that prioritizes high-quality, logo-free items. It’s a departure from the micro bags of Y2K fame, offering practicality without sacrificing style. “We all carry more stuff these days—chargers, laptops, headphones,” explained *Vogue* contributor Christian Allaire. “The bowling bag is built to hold it all, making it an ideal commuter accessory.”
This boxy silhouette first made waves in the fashion world on Prada’s Spring 2000 runway. Now, over two decades later, it’s back as a wardrobe staple, with cult-favorite brands creating their own spins on the classic design. Whether you’re drawn to its nostalgic charm or its practical allure, the bowling bag is undoubtedly this season’s most coveted accessory.