The y2k aesthetic is here to stay. Whether you love or hate the return of low-waisted jeans and frosted lipstick, the latest y2k trend to be revived is something that was on high rotation in Carrie Bradshaw‘s wardrobe – east west handbags. This playful silhouette dominated the runway across European fashion weeks this year and you can expect to see it everywhere soon. Though it looks like an evening bag, its charming, elongated horizontal shape has more of a playful flirty edge.
Here’s some of the best, affordable east west handbags to shop.
2024’s top east west handbags
- Classic Small Purse 90s Buckle Closure, $33, Amazon
- Brie Leon Paloma Baguette Bag, $220, The Iconic
- Wisteria Elongated Top Handle Bag, $139, Charles & Keith
The best east west handbags 2024
01
Classic Small Purse 90s Buckle Closure
from $33 at Amazon
Best for: a timeless black bag
Though east west bags are super trendy right now, we think this one from Amazon is not only timeless but super affordable too. With gold-coloured hardware, a simple black strap and a clasp closure, this bag is sure to last you season after season.
Colours: White, brown, black.
Material: PU leather.
Key features:
- Vintage classic style
- Excellent metal hardware
- Three colours to choose from
02
Wisteria Elongated Top Handle Bag
from $139 at Charles & Keith
Best for: a chic brown bag
This dreamy Charles & Keith Wisteria bag is minimalism at its best. Featuring a vintage silhouette, elongated top handles and zip closure, this is a truly stylish purse.
Colours: Oat, black, brown, canvas.
Materials: Faux leather.
Key features:
- Two-way zip closure
- Double top handles
- Comes with adjustable shoulder strap (detachable)
03
MON Leather Braided Handle Bag
from $249 at The DOM
Best for: a practical east west bag with a twist
If you’re of the belief that a handbag should be both practical and stylish, then this MON Leather Braided Bag is perfect for you. Like other east west bags, it has that elongated shape, however, this particular purse also has a chic braided handle, too.
Materials: Leather.
Colours: Black, brown.
Key features:
- Braided handle
- Zip closure
- Sleek design
04
Brie Leon Harlow Slouch Bag
from $159 at David Jones
Best for: a minimalist staple
The Brie Leon Harlow Slouch Bag is the definition of a minimalist staple. Featuring a simple smooth strap and a slouchy silhouette, this is the perfect understated piece to complement any outfit.
Colours: Black, brown.
Materials: 100 per cent recycled PU exterior, recycled organic cotton canvas lining.
Key features:
- Three internal pockets, one with a full zip
- Magnetic snap closure
- Fits comfortably under the arm for daily wear
05
Brie Leon Paloma Baguette Bag
from $220 at The Iconic
Best for: the closest you’ll get to couture
The east west bag silhouette is impossible to escape when you look at this year’s couture shows. However, in the more affordable price ranges, it becomes slightly harder to source. This Brie Leon Paloma Baguette Bag is the closest you’ll get to the true east west silhouette seen on the runway.
Colours: Black.
Material: 100% Apple Leather exterior.
Key features:
- Silver hardware
- Fits all iPhones comfortably
- Debossed Brie Leon logo tag
- Two internal pockets – one with a zip
