Expert tips to style the trending East-West handbag this summer

Gigi Hadid styles her bag with a fitted dress. PIC COURTESY/FERRAGAMO ON FACEBOOK

Reinforcing, once again, the often-repeated adage that fashion is invariably circular and what you thought was ‘dated' and ‘out of style' can come back as the ‘it' trend of the season with a gentle rebrand - the bag that everyone's coveting this season is the long and narrow East-West bag. Eerily reminiscent of the tiny baguettes that were a 1990s wardrobe staple, these long, thin bags are everywhere, and are being hailed for their day-to-night versatility and sleek, elegant aesthetic.

Kendall Jenner's East-West bag is casual chic. PIC COURTESY/KENDALL JENNER ON INSTAGRAM (right) Personalise your bag with keychains. PIC COURTESY/ELLEN TERRENCE ON INSTAGRAM

"What makes these bags so popular is that they are large enough to be functional while still being sleek enough to pair with relatively dressy looks," says celebrity stylist Mitali Ambekar. She adds that the elongated shape pairs well with both tailored and flowy silhouettes, which takes a lot of the decision-making out of the getting dressed process when you're rushed for time.

Dress it up, or down

The bags pair well with flowy silhouettes. PIC COURTESY/PINTEREST (right) Hailey Bieber demonstrates high-low dressing. PIC COURTESY/Hailey Bieber ON INSTAGRAM

While the classic East-West bag has a very structured handle that typically sits at the centre of the bag, you could just as easily pick a similar silhouette in a slouchy or crossbody style for your regular or casual fits. "For work, aim for a more minimalist look with a structured leather piece in classic tones. Wear this with high-waisted trousers and loafers to look instantly put-together. For evening wear or a more maximalist look, opt for a metallic purse or one in jewel tones," shares Ambekar.

The bag's elegant silhouette lends versatility. PIC COURTESY/beautyluxelover ON INSTAGRAM

The crossbody style wears well if you pick a piece in soft leather, and wear it with an oversized hoodie, shorts or denim jorts, and chunky sneakers. The style also adds to the delicate appeal of midi-dresses, or satin slip dresses and skirts.

Khushi Kapoor sports an East West bag (right) Pair your bag with oversized shirts. PIC COURTESY/KHUSHIKAPOOR INSTAGRAM; PINTEREST

All about proportions

The relatively small dimensions of the bag can make it disappear under extremely bulky or voluminous outfits. Because of where the bag sits on your body, it's also advisable to not add too much fabric around your waist. Simpler silhouettes that are either tailored or flowy can match the bag's less-is-more vibe, says Ambekar.

Mitali Ambekar

To get the most wear from your bag, personalise it with a silk scarf or keychains. Depending on the time of day, or the rest of your outfit, you could carry the bag by the handles or sling it across your torso like a crossbody, she signs off.