Why the Box Bag Is Your Must-Have Accessory for Fall

Watch out bucket bags, there’s a new style go-to with a lot more structure and versatility to boot. The box bag, made popular by labels like Mark Cross and Louis Vuitton, is currently dominating the arms of celebs and street style stars. Unlike the bucket bag's slouchy design, the box bag's structured style recall old-fashioned trunk cases and hatboxes of a bygone era that instantly dresses up any outfit.

Rihanna’s favorite bag of late is the Louis Vuitton Twisted Box, created in collaboration with Frank Gehry. You can take advice from the style rebel and wear your box bag with a pair of distressed jeans, a sweatshirt, and sneakers for the ultimate study in contrast. Or, you can opt for the look of Harley Viera-Newton, who styles the look with a shift dress and matching coat, perfect for a fall work outfit.

Rihanna seen with the Louis Vuitton Twisted Box bag.

BuzzFoto via Getty Images

Another great reason to try one this season? We’re all familiar with the evening wear bag dilemma: 1. Choose the purse you'd normally wear during the day and risk looking unbalanced. 2. Opt for a bag you don’t usually use and risk a fashion disaster (raise your hand if your purse has ever spilled open or broken during a party.) A chic clutch is a no brainer, but it can be awkward to hold bag in one hand and your drink in another while mingling with guests throughout the night. Most box bags come with a crossbody strap or a top handle, making the formal look at a little more carefree and much easier to navigate the city streets or an evening soirée.

Harley Viera-Newton carrying a Mark Cross bag.

Getty Images

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Jessica Alba shares what's in her bag:

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The box bag is also an accessory with a fascinating history—especially when it comes to Mark Cross, the chicest purveyor right now. The brand was founded in 1845 and is often featured in visually stunning Hitchcock films during the 1950s and 1960s. Grace Kelly carried the brand's black valise in Hitchcock's 1954 thriller Rear Window.

The structured silhouette is reminiscent of luxe leather travel trunks of the 19th century. But as a womenswear accessory, the look dates back to the '50s, when designers like Enid Collins started experimenting with box shaped purses rendered in wood, leather, and even raffia.

Thankfully, you don’t have to spend thousands to get the look. There are plenty of high to low-price options in the market right now that fit any style. So go ahead, why not wear a bit of fashion history on your arm?

Courtesy of Brands

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