Puffer bags have seamlessly transitioned from the runway to an essential part of everyday street style. Both fashion enthusiasts and regular people alike have embraced the trend, showcasing a myriad of styles, ranging from shoulder bags to totes and everything in between.
The versatile array of offerings has added to its appeal, emphasized by experts. "A puffer bag can effortlessly complement various outfits," says Brenda Iris, image consultant, stylist, and founder of Mindful Styling in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
If you're new to the puffer bag craze — or perhaps just looking to covet a fresh style — you've come to the right place. Ahead, we've rounded up some of our favorite puffer bags of the season. We've also included tips for styling them, courtesy of Iris.
How to Style a Puffy Shoulder Bag
Iris deems shoulder bags the most popular puffer style, which is no major surprise given how many versions exist among our favorite fashion brands. Whether you opt for a discreet, logo-free choice such as the Dagne Dover Rider Shoulder Bag to complement casual attire, or splurge on a luxury variant like the Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 26, you're destined to master the trend.
Dagne Dover Rider Shoulder Bag
One of several things we love about this shoulder bag is that the brand offers both core colors, as well as limited-edition seasonal options. Inside is a removable pouch for items you want to keep extra safe, but our favorite part f is that it's made from recycled water bottles — 13, to be exact.
Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
We can't discuss puffer shoulder bags without spotlighting this social media-famous style. It takes cues from the structured silhouette of an archival 1970s Coach design and features two detachable straps, so you can either carry it by hand, style it as a shoulder bag, or wear it as a crossbody. Plus, the color options are extensive, encompassing neutrals such as ivory and black and bolder hues like orange and yellow.
How to Style a Puffy Crossbody Bag
As its name implies, the perfect way to style a crossbody bag is by draping it diagonally across your body. This approach not only prioritizes comfort but makes the bag a focal point of your ensemble. As demonstrated in this accompanying image, this city goer’s Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette binds her chic and casual ensemble. For a bolder touch, consider a style like the Kate Spade Boxxy Crossbody.
Kate Spade Boxxy Crossbody
Feast on this color-blocked crossbody for an accessory that turns heads. It takes inspiration from none other than a Rubik's cube with its plush square panels made of smooth lamb leather.
Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette
If you're ready to splurge, few bags are as sought-after as this one. It's meticulously crafted from soft lambskin leather using the luxury label's distinctive intreccio weave.
How to Style a Puffy Tote Bag
A puffer tote is ideal for those who need a roomy bag but don't skimp on style. It’s what Iris considers the “most adaptable” option because it can fit lots of belongings while remaining entirely practical for everyday-wear. The Baggu Puffy Mini Tote is a playful option for versatile-wear, while the Stella McCartney Stella Puffy Tote Bag is a luxurious take on the trend.
Baggu Puffy Mini Tote
Whether you choose a fun pattern or a versatile monochrome, this puffy mini tote is bound to make you smile. It's soft to the touch and perfect for cushioning your precious belongings, and, perhaps most iconically, it's machine-washable.
Stella McCartney Stella Puffy Tote Bag
If you want to take the designer route, you can't go wrong with this one. It's made of vegan leather and features the embroidered Stella McCartney logo front and center, plus a twisted shoulder for an extra-elevated feel.
How to Style a Puffy Clutch
For “a touch of sophistication,” as Iris puts it, contemplate a leather — or faux leather — clutch. A neutral choice effortlessly complements any ensemble, whereas a colored clutch is the perfect attention-grabbing statement accessory. Certain options, such as the A New Day Puffy Clutch, come with a removable chain so you can swap between a crossbody and clutch. Meanwhile, classics like Saint Laurent’s beloved style, are tried-and-true crossbody options.
A New Day Puffy Clutch
Embrace the puffy crossbody bag trend without breaking the bank courtesy of this puffy-tufted faux leather design from Target's A New Day line. It features a single compartment with credit card pockets and a stylish metallic chain.
Saint Laurent Sade Leather Puffer Clutch
For an investment piece that'll transcend the test of time, this Saint Laurent style is the epitome of quiet luxury with its understated hardware and puffer-inspired quilting.
