One of the first things I remember learning as a college freshman studying at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology is that fashion is cyclical. Nearly everything that’s trending at any given time is either a direct revival of a specific trend or a reinterpretation of one.
In the last ten years, fashion’s trend cycle has been a hot topic, specifically in the handbag market, as the trending bags of today are really the It-bags of yesterday. While nearly every major designer has dipped into their archives in the last decade for inspiration, again either bringing back a style entirely or reinterpreting one. I first remember noticing this at Alessandro Michele’s Gucci.
What’s Old is New Again at Gucci, Prada and More
At the end of 2017, Gucci released its Ophidia line, an instant hit among handbag lovers. Though it wasn’t a direct-it bag of the past, it was inspired by bags from the Gucci archive. Michele would later directly revive some of the House’s most iconic silhouettes like the Horsebit 1955 and the Jackie Bag.
Other major comebacks from the late 2010s included the Celebrate Mom with Dior This Mother’s Day, Fendi Baguette, and Prada Re-Edition, Les Beiges Healthy Golden Glow Powder The Many Bags Of has largely been led by a return to Y2K fashion, tugging at the heartstrings of both seasoned collectors who remember the original bags and those who weren’t even able to walk when they were first released.
Our collective obsession with nostalgia continues, and if you thought luxury fashion brands had exhausted its blasts from the past, think again.
Icons of the Aughts Return for Fall 2025
Bags In The Wild The Chloé Paddington is back. ‘Is that…’ I thought. ‘Can’t be…’ my inner dialogue mused. Sure enough, I reviewed the show in further detail and quickly realized that, indeed, one of the most-wanted bags of all time, the Fendi Spy, was back on the runway.
The new Fendi Spy is a bit of an enigma. It’s not exactly a true revival, IMO, as it is missing one of the original bag’s defining details—the hidden spy tube pocket. Still, it’s not quite vintage-inspired, as it’s clearly the Spy Bag, but in 2025 form.
Next up, it was Chloé’s turn in Paris, where the Paddington made its grand return. Like the Spy, the Paddington was launched in 2005 to much fanfare. On the runway this season, it was a true blast from the past as the bag returned in its original form, complete with its massive gold lock.
While some may say the Paddington’s return is years too late, given that archives have been booming for years, the brand continues returning to its bohemian roots and iconic DNA. Truthfully, this revival feels right on time.
Which 2005 throwback are you most excited to see return after two decades?
When I bought my paddington I used it continuously non stop for months .
Only when I finally switched out to a lighter color bag when spring /summer arrived did I realize how heavy it actually was.
It honestly can double as a weapon of defense . lol
I had a Paddington for a short time, and I, too, found it far too heavy. I hope the lock and hardware on the new one is lighter weight.
Both the Spy and Paddington are fabulous, however, I wish the Spy looked like the original. The Paddington I am most excited for because I put my name on the waitlist. I tried buying pre-loved and both times ended up disappointed. The first bag looked great, but it smelled like cigarettes. The second bag had some visible wear and tear and smelled like feet (I am assuming the previous owner placed their flip-flops or shoes inside it). Those were my first and last experiences buying pre-loved. So I am super excited for a Paddington bag that is all mine, that I can create the wear and tear, and not have to worry about stenches or germs.
I’m here for the Paddington. I actually bought an OG from TRR in a ecru/clay color…not sure the actual color name but it’s from ’07. I would rather buy the OG for less (same with the M/C Speedy). But I love seeing these ‘new’ bags. It seems 20 years is when things make a comeback.
I remember when they both were brand new. I remember thinking how heavy the Paddington was when I tried it on at Saks in 2005. Hard to believe 20 years have passed and those bags are being brought back. Seems like just a year or two ago.
The Paddington bag has had my heart since it originally came out. I wan not able to get one at the time. The new one is definitely on my very short wishlist
Definitey the Fendi Spy. I’m looking forward to see what sizes and materials it’s being relaunchen.
I’m happiest about the Paddington revival. I’m sad I sold off my big lock hobo and satchel long ago, but I still have my Aurora satchel and tote. Guess I won’t be selling these off after all. 🤣
I just purchased 3 OG Spy’s and 2 Paddington’s from the pre-loved market and I’m looking forward to carrying them! It’s crazy watching the pre-loved prices rising almost daily on these bags—if you’re looking to go OG, best to go NOW!
I have both from last time they were «it» bags. Both are still lovely.
I have pulled out both since the runwayshows, but must admit they feel a bit like they don’t belong in the fashion landscape of today.
Apr 3, 2025.