For years, handbags have been getting smaller, harder, more sculptural. Yet this summer, the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction. Soft, slouchy drawstring bags have quietly become one of the season’s most refreshing accessories, offering a relaxed alternative to the rigid top handles and east-west silhouettes dominating recent collections.
We could almost call this trend when the Prada Wish Silk Duchesse Pouch went down the SS26 runway last fall in a confectionary shade of pink and since then, our obsession has deepened and expanded towards drawstring bags in all shapes and sizes. Many conjure memories of the nylon book bags many of us carried to school in the ’90s and today’s versions feel decidedly more elevated.
Perhaps the biggest appeal is just how different these bags feel. Most of us, probably don’t own a grown up version of this bag yet, but that changes this summer. Not only are they amazing to travel with due to their structureless design, but they give any outfit a certain je ne sais quoi of nonchalance while remaining relaxed and casual. Better yet, the relaxed shape feels perfectly suited to warm weather now, while rich fabrics and deeper colours ensure they’ll transition seamlessly into fall.
Whether you’re looking to invest in Prada’s runway favourite or simply want to test the waters with a more accessible option, these are the drawstring bags worth adding to your wardrobe.
Prada Wish Silk Duchesse Pouch, $1320 USD
The bag that launched a thousand wish lists. Debuting on Prada’s Spring Summer 2026 runway, the Wish Pouch reimagines the classic drawstring silhouette in lustrous silk duchesse. In a delicious on-trend soft pink, this pouch softly gathers with delicate leather ties and features the understated logo reserved for runway pieces (hence the higher price point to the re-nylon edition). It’s equal parts playful and polished, and is easily one of the season’s defining accessories.
By Malene Birger Landinna Satin Bucket Bag, $300 USD
For those wanting to tap into the trend without stretching to four figures, By Malene Birger offers one of the chicest options with added tassels for an extra kick. The satin finish elevates the relaxed silhouette while clean Scandinavian design keeps this bag feeling timeless enough to wear for seasons to come.
COS Drawstring Crossbody Bag, $159 USD
COS has built a reputation for translating runway ideas into wearable everyday pieces, and its Drawstring Crossbody Bag is no exception. Done in an incredible must-have cobalt blue, this minimal, functional and refreshingly understated bag is an easy entry point into the trend with enough versatility to become an everyday favourite.
GANNI Pouch in Printed Taffeta Iced Aqua, $198 USD
GANNI injects its signature sense of fun into this crisp taffeta pouch in an icy blue print that is made for the dog days of summer. Lightweight and playful, it’s the kind of bag that pairs well with everything and instantly added intrigue and spice to the simplest summer look. Bonus – this one is on sale too!
By The Namesake x Ali Budd Joey Mini in Violet, $595 CAD
A collaboration that brings together thoughtful Canadian design and daring colour, the Joey Mini arrives in a rich violet hue that feels surprisingly versatile. Gathered with a marble bead, this silhouette is an easy day-to-night companion offering a fresh take on the drawstring trend at a great price point.
Heimat Atlantica, Mother of Pearl Jewel Bag, $597 USD
Few brands capture vacation dressing quite like Heimat Atlantica. Trimmed with luminous mother of pearl detailing, this handcrafted pouch feels equal parts handbag and collectible object. It’s destined for seaside dinners, destination weddings and every occasion in between, yet can easily transition into fall to add whimsy to a more tonal look.
Sophie Buhai Teardrop embellished satin drawstring pouch, $594 USD
Known for her sculptural jewellery, Sophie Buhai applies the same restrained elegance to accessories. The Teardrop Pouch combines sumptuous satin with subtle silver pearl drop bead, making this an elegant yet understated evening bag that embraces the relaxed softness defining this trend. Grab this one while it’s on sale!
Savette Macrame Pouch in Bone Canvas & Leather, $1290 USD
Savette’s meticulous craftsmanship gives this pouch a more architectural feel without sacrificing on softness. Combining durable woven canvas with smooth leather cord detailing, it delivers quiet luxury while maintaining the effortless ease we gravitate to all summer.
Le Sundial La Isla Étoile Shantung Pouch, $885 USD
Made from elegant shantung fabric, Le Sundial’s La Isla Étoile Pouch feels romantic without being overly precious. Its softly gathered shape and oversized tassel detailing give it an artisanal finish in a gorgeous deep blue shade. It’s an ideal companion for summer evenings, a glitzy night at the opera, or a cross body for a walk through the farmers market.
Prada Wish Re-Nylon pouch, $1150 CAD
If silk feels a little precious (and pricey) for everyday use, Prada’s Re-Nylon version offers the same coveted silhouette in the house’s signature regenerated fabric. Lightweight, durable and unmistakably Prada, it’s arguably the most practical interpretation of the trend and one that will easily carry through every season.