The Chloé Paddington bag is officially back. First released in 2005 under the impeccable eye of Phoebe Philo, it quickly became one of the defining It bags of the decade — chunky, slouchy, and finished with an oversized padlock. Now, twenty years later, the style has returned under Chemena Kamali’s direction — and it’s just as chic, nostalgic, and covetable as ever.

Reissued for the Autumn Winter 25 collection, the Paddington has had a light refresh from the days when it slung on every noughties icon's arm (think: the addition of furry bag charms), but its original attitude remains. It somehow manages to straddle the delicate balance between being unapologetically bold and full of personality, but also neutral and suited to just about any outfit. It's also officially back in stock — though not for long, if initial waitlists are anything to go by.

The renewed interest in the Paddington bag fits into a broader shift in fashion: bigger, statement bags are back on our radar again. After years of minimalism and quiet luxury reigning supreme, there’s a revival of accessories that feel a little more alive — less pristine, more worn-in. The Paddington always looked better once it had softened at the edges, with the leather creased and the hardware dulled just slightly. For proof that this trend is catching on, you need only look to the Spring Summer 26 collections, where Matthieu Blazy sent classic CHANEL flapbags down the runway open and a little dishevelled. And for their debut collection at Loewe, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez followed suit.

We can't help but draw similarities to Jane Birkin's preference for a (Birkin) bag not only overflowing with the detritus of her everyday life, but also punctuated with charms, ribbons, and even stickers. To put it plainly, these bags are a little less about perfection than they are about character.

If you’re after something with a similar spirit, look to styles like Balenciaga’s City bag and Miu Miu’s Wander. These bags have weight, presence, the kind of texture that invites touch, and actually look like they've been used a little. Whether you manage to snag the reissue or find a modern alternative, one thing is clear: the era of the It bag is back. Bigger, bolder, and better with age.

Below, shop the style of the moment, and peruse our pick of bags like the Chloe Paddington Bag we think you'll love.

CHLOÉ Paddington Embellished Tote

CHANEL Maxi Flapbag

BALENCIAGA Women's Le City Bag Medium

STELLA MCCARTNEY Dartmoor Shoulder Bag

MIU MIU Adventure Suede Bag

COACH Suede Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39

Vintage Fendi  Zucca FF Spy 

ISABEL MARANT Bolton distressed leather shoulder bag

& Other Stories Large Suede Tote

Gerard Darel Crinkle effect leather handbag - 24H

Need more inspiration? We've rounded up the best boho bags to make a resurgence this season.