Look of the Week: Harry Styles proves that ‘It-bags’ are for the boys, too
Look of the Week: Harry Styles Challenges Gender Norms with Chanel It-Bag
This week’s standout moment in fashion came not from a traditional runway show, but from a casual appearance by Harry Styles. The British actor, known for his evolving style, once again captured global attention by sporting a bold statement piece: a soft maxi flap bag from Chanel, crafted by the brand’s new artistic director, Matthieu Blazy. The bag, first showcased at Chanel’s Metiers d’art event in New York, has become the latest must-have accessory, with its demand reaching unprecedented levels.
Styles’ choice of the bag quickly sparked a frenzy among fashion insiders. Since Blazy’s debut ready-to-wear collection launched last weekend, acquiring his designs has proven notoriously difficult. “The iconic Rue Cambon Chanel was A SCENE on March 5th,” noted Kaelen Haworth, a stylist and founder of Toronto’s Absolutely Fabrics, who was present in Paris for fashion week. She described the chaos as shoppers “Gone Feral,” a phrase echoed by The New York Times in its coverage of the event.
Meanwhile, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, a stylist who has dressed New York’s First Lady Rama Duwaji, called the scene “mayhem.” She highlighted how even the most fashion-conscious figures were “losing their ever-loving minds” in their pursuit of the new collection. Despite the social media highlights of successful purchases, the soft maxi flap bag remained one of the most elusive items, leading some to speculate whether Chanel is following Hermès’ strategy of limited availability to boost desirability.
Men Reimagining Luxury Accessories
Styles’ outfit carries a unique edge—its appeal is rooted in insider knowledge. Historically, It-bags like the Chanel 2.55 (introduced in the 1950s), Dior Saddle (1999), and Celine Luggage tote (2010) have been dominated by women. However, a new wave of male celebrities is redefining the narrative. Icons such as Jacob Elordi, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams are not only embracing high-end bags but also showcasing experimental designs from brands like Bottega Veneta, Chanel, and Goyard.
Elordi, in particular, has been spotted with multiple Bottega Veneta pieces, including the Andiamo, Cassette, and Hop tote. His collection, as captured by paparazzi, suggests a growing trend of men investing in statement accessories. Similarly, Bad Bunny sports a Gucci Jackie 1961 shoulder bag, while British actor Kit Connor carries an electric blue JW Anderson Bumper. Timothée Chalamet, meanwhile, has been seen favoring mini-purses, such as his Hermès Kelly in orange and black, and a small Chanel metallic crossbody.
As male fashion icons redefine the role of bags in their wardrobes, these accessories are evolving from practical items to powerful fashion statements. This shift challenges long-standing stereotypes and broadens the understanding of masculinity. While women may now face intensified competition for coveted pieces, the trend signals a broader cultural transformation in how gender is expressed through style.
