One of the biggest handbag trends of the 2020s has been a return to the elongated bags of yesterday. Yes, we’re talking about the east/west bag. I once mused that I never thought I’d be an east/west girlie, but there I was, lusting after one of the most popular east/west bags to hit the scene: the viral Alaïa Le Teckel Bag.
The more I saw the shape, the more I really liked it. A year and a half later, the silhouette has quickly become one of the trendiest in the handbag world, and it is here to stay.
The Rise of the East/West Bag in the 2020s
Upon investigation, it’s easy to see why the east/west trend took off. For starters, it quickly stands out amongst a sea of other bags thanks to its distinct, elongated silhouette—it is truly a statement-maker. Plus, it’s undeniably chic, immediately taking your outfit to the next level.
While the shape took off thanks to of-the-moment shoulder bags like the Khaite Simona along with Alaïa’s Le Teckel, to make things even more, this season chic designers have taken it to the next with the east/west clutch being one of fall 2025’s biggest trends—but is it really a trend, or can it stand the test of time?
East/west bags tend to ebb and flow in popularity, but there are a few iconic east/west bags that stand the test of time. The Hermès JPG Birkin (it’s having a renaissance), Chanel’s Chocolate Bar bag, and the Hermès Kelly Cut are all good examples. Pair the silhouette with the classic shape of a clutch, and you’ve got a timeless version of the trend that will be worn time and time again.
Is the East/West Clutch Timeless or Trendy?
While an east/west shoulder bag may appear more trend-driven, a clutch, worn for dressier occasions or events, leans more timeless. Let’s take a look at some of the options below! What do you think?
Not for me but each to their own.