There’s a new bag on the block right in time for adding to your new-season wardrobe. You’ve probably already heard of the ‘carb bag duo’ – that’s the baguette bag and the croissant clutch, fyi – but this season, there’s another shape with a food-inspired moniker taking centre stage: the banana bag.
Yes, you guessed it, it does resemble the shape of a banana, but compared to its carb-themed cousins, the banana bag is much longer and flatter, before curving upwards on both ends. Depending on how much of a banana shape you prefer, there are a range of more subtle options as well as more accentuated shapes on the high street right now.
A banana bag is the style to buy now
IMO, the banana bag is super =-practical as it allows you to go hands-free, which is always easier when you have a busy day rushing around town and likely juggling an umbrella. It’s also big enough for all your essential items (think phone, purse, keys, lipbalm and earpods) so it’s the perfect grab-and-go bag.
Another bonus? It’s the perfect combination between fashion and function if you ask me. Even better, it’s one of those versatile bags which goes with anything and everything; a perfect choice to take with you for a chilled coffee run but also a great evening bag. As us shoppers have been favouring comfortable and wearable bags recently, brands are under pressure to deliver, compared to previous seasons where the appearance of accessories was the main concern.
Iconic brand The Row leads the way with its Slouchy Banana Bag. The Olsen Twins strike again with another beautifully curated piece, but, unsurprisingly, it comes with an eye-watering equivalent-to-your-rent price of £1,720. Other high-end brands such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Bottega Venetta have also jumped on the trend. But fear not, you can still achieve the same look with banana bags from the high street, saving you from forking out that extra cash.
Designer banana bags
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The best dupes on the high street
My Instagram feed has been full of fashion bloggers styling the banana bag in lots of different ways. I love the minimalistic way in which Alexis Foreman wears it with her trench coat, making it look effortlessly cool. It’s the perfect bag to layer on top of knits, blazers, and coats. I can’t wait to rock this look over the autumn season.
My all-time favourite high street brands that nail the art of the banana bag include COS, Jigsaw, Everlane, Monki, Trakke, and NA-KD. Shape wise, if you’re after a more subtle banana bag, then these options are my go-to brands. Banana bags from Everlane and Trakke are great for running errands while wearing casual outfits, but Jigsaw, Monki and NA-KD on the other hand have a lovely range of leather banana bags which have that The Row-feel without the hefty price tag. A win-win situation!
Banana bags on the high street
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How to style the banana bag for 2022
I’ve yet to come across a way in which the banana bag can’t be styled. I personally love it paired with an autumn dress, but now that the weather is getting cooler, it’s just as nice with a silk skirt and elevated knitwear. The current trend I’ve been seeing everywhere seems to combine a black leather banana bag with a Totême-inspired stripy jumper and camel coloured coat. It also has the ability to tie together a last-minute white t-shirt, jeans and Converse outfit, elevating it nicely.
Another one of my favourite options is styling it alongside a trouser and matching waistcoat number for that ultimate Parisian chic. I’d finish the look with a pair of boots or loafers if I had plans during the day.
Although it’s the perfect everyday bag, don’t be fooled, it’s also a great option for evening plans, such as dinner or drinks. Simply wear a patterned banana bag (if you prefer a different style compared to your daytime bag) over a long black dress, biker jacket and with kitten heels for a more elevated look.
If this hasn’t convinced you to make space in your autumn wardrobe for the popular banana bag, then I don’t know what will…
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