Fashion Flash: What’s New Right Now

When Fashion News Meets the Handbag Market

Fashion never stands still — and neither does the handbag world. With every runway show, creative director appointment, or archive revival, new stories shape the way we see and carry luxury. September has already brought some significant headlines: Gucci revealed the first glimpse of its bold new direction under Demna, Chloé confirmed the return of its cult-status Paddington bag, and belt bags emerged as one of the season’s most surprising comebacks.

At KYM, we follow these shifts closely, not just as admirers of design, but as curators in the luxury resale space. Understanding what’s happening today helps us identify the icons of tomorrow — and ensures our clients can make choices that combine timeless style with smart value.

Gucci’s New Era Under Demna

No headline has dominated fashion news this month quite like Gucci’s debut under Demna, formerly of Balenciaga. His upcoming collection, La Famiglia, was teased with dramatic proportions, structured tailoring, and statement handbags that emphasise hardware and silhouette.

For a house as storied as Gucci, a change in creative direction always makes waves. Just as Tom Ford’s sensual minimalism in the 1990s and Alessandro Michele’s maximalist eclecticism in the 2010s reshaped Gucci’s identity, Demna’s vision signals another shift. This time, it’s about power, boldness, and edge.

What this means for handbags: expect stronger shapes, exaggerated hardware, and straps that make a statement. For the resale market, history shows that when a new vision takes hold, older styles that echo the new aesthetic often see a surge in interest. Collectors who already own Gucci pieces with structured silhouettes or oversized accents may find their bags gaining attention once again.

At KYM, we anticipate increased demand for designs that align with this boldness, particularly pieces like the Gucci Jackie in stronger finishes or the Gucci Bamboo with exaggerated details.

Chloé’s Nostalgic Revival: The Return of the Paddington

If Gucci is about reinvention, Chloé’s latest move is about nostalgia. To mark the 20th anniversary of the Paddington bag, the brand is reissuing its cult favourite with subtle updates. For those who remember the early 2000s, the Paddington was instantly recognisable: soft, slouchy leather, oversized lock hardware, and that sense of effortless bohemian chic that defined the era.

Its comeback is more than a marketing move — it reflects fashion’s ongoing fascination with Y2K and early-2000s style. In the last few years, we’ve seen the Dior Saddle, Fendi Baguette, and Balenciaga City all re-enter the spotlight. The Paddington joins this wave, connecting nostalgia with modern reinterpretation.

Why this matters at KYM: nostalgia is not just emotional; it’s financial. Archive reissues often reignite interest in both the originals and the new versions. Collectors who held onto their early Paddingtons may see them become desirable once more, while new buyers are drawn to the story behind the design.

Our curators often note that when a house taps into cultural memory, the resale market follows. The Paddington’s return is likely to spark demand for both vintage versions and the updated releases.

The Comeback of the Belt Bag

If there was one trend at the Fall/Winter 2025 shows that surprised many, it was the return of the belt bag. Once dismissed as a fleeting streetwear accessory, it has reappeared in a new guise: structured, fashion-forward, and designed to be worn over coats, tailoring, or layered outfits.

From sleek leather versions styled crossbody to utilitarian designs with multiple compartments, the belt bag is no longer just a festival staple. Instead, it’s positioned as an urban essential — a marriage of functionality and elevated design.

What KYM sees here: the belt bag’s revival reflects a wider appetite for bags that combine utility with style. Much like the east-west silhouettes dominating street style, these designs are practical while still making a statement. Limited runs and recognisable designs in this category may quickly become highly sought after in the pre-loved market, particularly those from houses like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel.

What KYM Thinks: Reading Between the Headlines

For us, these stories — Gucci’s reinvention, Chloé’s nostalgia, and the belt bag’s comeback — are more than surface-level trends. They represent the ongoing balance between heritage and innovation that drives the luxury market.

As one of our curators explains:

“Fashion headlines are not just entertainment; they’re early signals. A bold new vision at a house like Gucci reshapes demand across collections. A nostalgic revival like the Paddington stirs collectors’ memories and opens opportunities in resale. And when a trend like the belt bag evolves, it points to how function and fashion are converging again.”

 

This is why KYM watches fashion news so carefully — not just to celebrate style, but to guide clients in making savvy, timeless choices.

Fashion Today, Icons Tomorrow

Fashion news today shapes the icons of tomorrow. Whether it’s Demna’s powerful Gucci debut, Chloé’s revival of the Paddington, or the belt bag’s surprising new chapter, each development tells us something about where luxury is heading.

For KYM, the takeaway is clear: when trends balance style, storytelling, and wearability, they don’t just define a season — they build long-term value.

Explore KYM’s collection of curated handbags, and discover the pieces that align with both today’s headlines and tomorrow’s legacy.