The Rise of Open-Mouthed Bags in 2026 Fashion Shows
At the recent 2026 Spring/Summer fashion shows in Paris, models from top luxury brands such as Chanel, Dior, and Loewe made a bold statement with their choice of accessories. The standout trend was the open-mouthed bag, which sparked widespread discussion within the fashion industry. This design is being seen not as an accident but as a deliberate move that could define the upcoming year’s trends.
The event took place last month and featured the debut of new designers at each brand. Mathieu Blazy took over at Chanel, Jonathan Anderson joined Dior, and Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez became the creative force behind Loewe. Their designs captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and critics alike, especially the unconventional approach to bag design.
Chanel’s Crumpled 2.55 Bag
Chanel’s runway showcased a crumpled version of its iconic 2.55 bag, with the door left wide open. The bag was structured with wire to maintain its open position permanently. According to reports, this design was intended to symbolize the designer’s vision of “peeking into the hidden inner thoughts of humans.” The unique presentation was a clear departure from traditional styles and raised questions about functionality versus aesthetics.
Dior’s Slanted Handle Bags
Dior also embraced the open-mouthed trend, presenting bags with a single-sided handle that caused the bag to tilt. This design naturally exposed the interior, creating a striking visual effect. BLACKPINK member Jisoo, who is an ambassador for Dior, carried one of these bags during the show. This moment led to speculation that the bag could become the next flagship piece for the brand, following the success of the “Lady Dior.”
Loewe’s Hybrid Design
Loewe’s presentation introduced a bag that combined elements from both Chanel and Dior. The design was half-open with a single handle, and the tilted structure revealed the brand’s gold-embossed logo inside the gap. This hybrid approach demonstrated the brand’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional bag design.
Fendi’s Lavish Peekaboo
Fendi took the open-mouthed concept even further by displaying its iconic “Peekaboo” bag wide open on the runway. The interior was decorated with sequins and three-dimensional floral patterns, adding a luxurious touch to the design. This bold move highlighted the brand’s commitment to innovation and artistic expression.
Consumer Reactions Vary
Consumer reactions to the open-mouthed bags have been mixed. Some critics called it a “pickpocket edition,” questioning the practicality of carrying an open bag. Others joked about the likelihood of people constantly pointing out that the bag was open. However, there were also positive responses. Some noted that they had seen similar styles on the streets recently and believed the trend would soon gain popularity. Others praised the design, saying, “The open look is naturally stylish. I’m curious how it looks closed.”
Conclusion
The open-mouthed bags showcased at the 2026 S/S fashion shows represent a significant shift in the world of luxury fashion. Whether this trend will continue to gain momentum remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the fashion industry is embracing bold and unconventional ideas. As designers continue to experiment, the line between art and function becomes increasingly blurred, setting the stage for a new era of creativity in accessory design.