Fashion has long taken inspiration from the world of motorcycles and racing. Think moto jackets, leather pants, biker shades, and—naturally—bags. The use of leather, studs, buckles, and chains—all emblematic of the moto lifestyle—radiates an undeniably cool, edgy, and sexy vibe. It's no surprise these elements have spurred countless fashion houses to craft accessories that capture the sought-after rebel aesthetic.
Below, we've handpicked a collection of moto-inspired bags guaranteed to infuse your wardrobe with an effortless edge.
SHOP: The Best Moto-Inspired Bags to Add Some Edge to Your Outfits
1. Balenciaga Le Cagole
When you think of moto bags, Balenciaga’s Le Cagole is often the first bag that comes to mind. It embraces a half-moon or baguette-style shoulder bag shape, a design that has seen a significant resurgence in recent years. It's a youthful and quirky evolution of the classic moto bag. ICYDK, "cagole" is French slang, which roughly translates to "a provocative girl," and this name truly encapsulates the essence of this bag with its rounded silhouette, its added heart-shaped mirror, and loud colorways. Influencers and new-gen "it girls" such as Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa, and Kim Kardashian have quickly adopted this trend. Kim Kardashian even featured the bag in a Balenciaga campaign, showcasing it in a striking highlighter green.
Women's Le Cagole XS Shoulder Bag, $2500 (approx. P146,033), BALENCIAGA, balenciaga.com
2. Balenciaga City
The original moto bag and predecessor to the Le Cagole, Balenciaga's City bag, also known as the Motorcycle City bag, has been a staple since its debut in 2001. This edgy leather bag with a lived-in vibe became a “cool girl” accessory during the noughties. Its unstructured design, adorned with studs, buckles, zippers, and tassels, stood in stark contrast to the structured, logo-centric bags popular at the time. The City bag showcases a simple rectangular design, dual handles, and hardware options in silver, gold, or tonal finishes.
Le City Medium Bag, $2850 (approx. P166,478), BALENCIAGA, balenciaga.com
3. Givenchy Voyou
Voyou, which translates to "bad boy," perfectly embodies the style of former Givenchy creative director Matthew M. Williams, combining the French maison’s elegance with his streetwear edge. Introduced at the Spring/Summer 2023 runway, its slouchy v-shaped design, moto-style leather straps, and buckle detailing instantly made it a stand-out piece. Unlike most of Givenchy’s bags, which admittedly have a more formal and glamorous appeal to them, the Voyou’s relaxed style makes it easier to wear on the daily while still effortlessly upping your sartorial game.
Medium Voyou in Denim, P155,000, GIVENCHY, givenchy.com
4. Gucci Horsebit Chain
Originally debuting in 2003 under the creative direction of Tom Ford, the Gucci Horsebit Chain bag was reimagined and re-released as part of the Fall Winter 2023 collection. This handbag reinterprets one of Gucci's most recognizable motifs with a maxi Horsebit. While the Horsebit reflects Gucci's equestrian roots, the bag's trendy baguette silhouette, plush quilted leather, and oversized Horsebit motif lend it a modern and edgy vibe. With options to switch between a leather and chain strap, the latter leans more towards moto-inspired themes.
Horsebit Chain Small Shoulder Bag, $3590 (approx. P209,704), GUCCI, gucci.com
5. Versace Repeat
In line with the trend of reviving Y2K designs, Versace reintroduced the Repeat, a re-edition of their hobo bag from the early 2000s. Originally featured in the Fall-Winter 2003 and Spring-Summer 2004 campaigns, the Repeat's half-moon shape makes it easy to sling over the shoulder. This biker-inspired bag features multiple zippers, a detachable shoulder strap, and a Medusa charm. Some variations even include tassels, staying true to Versace's maximalist style.
Repeat Shoulder Bag, $2296 (approx. P134,117), VERSACE, farfetch.com*
6. Acne Studios Multipocket Vintage Bag
Though you won't find the usual moto motifs such as studs, chains, or buckles, the Acne Studios Multipocket Vintage Bag features a multi-pocket design with a boxy silhouette and aged leather, reminiscent of panniers often attached to motorcycles. The addition of leather ribbon bows adds just the right amount of femininity to this practical and stylish accessory.
Multipocket Vintage Bag, P96,810.45, ACNE STUDIOS, frwd.com*
7. Vivienne Westwood Betty
A list of moto-inspired bags wouldn't be complete without Vivienne Westwood. A punk fashion icon, many of the brand's creations, including the Betty bag, reflect moto influences. The Betty handbag in smooth leather features a top-handle silhouette with a detachable strap. Named after pin-up model Betty Page, this statement bag boasts metal hoop and stud detailing, echoing Westwood's signature punk style.
Betty Medium Handbag, €660 (approx. P42,101), VIVIENNE WESTWOOD, viviennewestwood.com
*Note: Some of the prices mentioned in this article have been sourced from authorized resellers and not directly from the brand's official website. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is important to note that prices may vary depending on the reseller and the region. We encourage readers to visit the official brand website or consult authorized resellers for the most up-to-date pricing information.
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