We should have known that the ‘hobo bag’ would be back. After all, fashion is cyclical, isn’t it? Back in 2019, the slouchy, roomy bag made a comeback thanks to Bottega Veneta’s Jodie bag. But the ‘hobo bag’ really laid its foundations back in the ‘90s and early 2000s, when all of the best-dressed women of the time (Sienna Miller, Kate Moss, the Olsen sisters and more) popularised the silhouette as part of the boho chic trend. Look back even further, and you’ll find the bag cropping up in the 1960s, an ally of the hippie movement and adorned with tassels. But in 2025, the bag has entered a new era.
So, what is the new ‘hobo bag’? Words like “flexible”, “spacious”, “simple” still apply, but the truth is that they have been elevated. Just take the recent bag from Chanel, the 22, which is decorated with thick chains and its iconic quilted fabric. Then there’s the Le 5 à 7 Supple from Saint Laurent. In other words, the hobo bag is still the same functional, versatile and fashionable bag it was before, but with a new touch of elegance and sophistication.
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The silhouette is simple. The key to the ‘hobo bag’ is that it is never rigid bag. Rather, it’s a soft and mouldable bag, making it expandable and functional. Its silhouette is loose and elongated, always with a rounded shape and a long handle.
And its versatility goes even further:
- It can be worn with jeans, jumpers and classic coats.
- Thanks to the wide space between its handle and its body, it’s ideal for wearing with the fluffiest coats in your closet.
- It’s the perfect ally to relax structured outfits.
- But it can also serve as a worthy partner to all your flowing dresses.
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In a nutshell, it’s easy to see why the ‘hobo bag’ keeps on coming bag. Sought after for its practical spirit and style, for that ability to carry everything we need (and what we don’t) and its adaptability and versatility. Best of all? There are loads to choose from.
A version of this article originally appeared on Glamour (Spain).