Nostalgia meets modern luxury as brands revive iconic “it” bags like the Celine Phantom and Balenciaga City, redefining fashion’s favorite arm candies.
For younger millennials and older Gen Zs, our sources of entertainment in the early 2000s and 2010s included television shows, magazines, and social networking platforms that let us customize our profiles to our liking (yes, I’m talking about Friendster ✝). In this era, celebrities and It-girls were out and about—attending parties, getting into public scandals, and, most importantly, being photographed by the paparazzi. Personally, I love paparazzi photos—looking at what my favorite celebrity or It-girl was wearing became a favorite pastime of mine, especially when it came to examining the “It” Bags they carried.
Many iconic bags have influenced the fashion industry. Previously, oversized, chic, and functional bags were popular—a recession indicator, perhaps. However, recent 2026 fashion shows reveal a new trend: the resurgence of beloved “It” Bags. These include bags once used to evade paparazzi, ones spacious enough to fit a laptop and more, and those that defined a generation’s youth.
This resurgence of past hero items can be linked to new creative leadership across various fashion houses. Many of today’s creative directors are adopting Daniel Roseberry’s strategy at Schiaparelli: leveraging brand archives and reinterpreting design codes with a modern touch.
Roseberry revitalized Schiaparelli by integrating archival design elements—such as Elsa Schiaparelli’s iconic anatomical motifs and surrealist influences—to develop innovative pieces. This pattern of creative directors drawing from their brands’ archives and reintroducing classic items with a contemporary twist is also evident in Jonathan Anderson’s Summer 2026 show for Dior and Michael Rider’s Spring 2026 collection for Celine.
With that said, these are the “It” Bags from our childhood that are back in style.
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Chloé Paddington Bag
The Chloé Paddington, launched in 2005, was the epitome of boho luxury with its oversized padlock and buttery leather. A favorite of Sienna Miller and Kate Hudson, it eventually fell out of favor due to its heavy build. Now, with nostalgia-driven fashion making a comeback—and Chloé seeking a renewed identity—a lighter, modernized Paddington is returning to the spotlight.
Celine Phantom
The Celine Phantom, introduced in the early 2010s during Phoebe Philo’s reign, became a status symbol with its oversized wings, structured leather, and quiet luxury appeal. Once a street style staple, it faded with Philo’s exit and the industry’s shift toward micro bags. Recently, Michael Rider reintroduced the Phantom in his Spring 2026 collection, updating it with softer lines and modern proportions, signaling a strong comeback for this beloved classic.
Balenciaga City Bag
Debuting in 2001 under Nicolas Ghesquière, the Balenciaga City—also known as the “Motorcycle Bag”—broke away from the logo-heavy styles of its time. Its slouchy leather and punky hardware made it a mid-2000s icon, loved by the likes of Kate Moss and the Olsen twins. Though overshadowed during Demna’s era of irony, its grunge-meets-chic vibe aligns perfectly with today’s Y2K and vintage revival trends.
Fendi Spy Bag
First launched in 2005 under Silvia Venturini Fendi, the Spy Bag became a Y2K icon with its braided handles, hidden compartments, and soft croissant shape. For Fall/Winter 2025‑26, Fendi reintroduced the Spy in updated sizes, luxe materials like shearling and mink, and fresh pastel hues, while keeping its signature twisted handle and secret pocket. Seen on today’s It-girls and backed by a cinematic campaign, the reinvented Spy blends nostalgia with a modern edge.
The return of these legendary bags shows that fashion’s obsession with nostalgia isn’t slowing down anytime soon. By merging archival silhouettes with contemporary updates, designers are breathing new life into pieces once thought to be relics. From the grunge-cool allure of the Balenciaga City to the polished revival of the Celine Phantom, these icons are reclaiming their place in the spotlight—proving that true style never fades.
