Statement of style: spring & summer handbag fashion guide
From the empowering Girl Crush style, the traditional elegance of the preppy style, to the minimalist high-intellectual aesthetic, as well as the romantic charm of cottoncore, Christie's specialists share the style trends that are highly coveted each spring and summer, with exquisite handbags that complement each style

In the ever-revolving realm of fashion, style remains an essential form of self-expression. Christie's specialists delve into enduring classic styles, exploring the sweet yet edgy allure of Girl Crush, the innovative charm of preppy sophistication, the embodiment of intellectual aesthetics, and the soothing poetic beauty of Cottagecore. Discover the fashion philosophies and cultural narratives that underpin each style, complemented by exquisite handbags—from rare, avant-garde designs to timeless pieces that exemplify the brand's artisanal craftsmanship. Each handbag, meticulously crafted from fine leather, captures the multifaceted essence of contemporary women, harmonizing strength with grace. Through the discerning eyes of our experts, witness how handbags transcend mere accessories to become profound statements of personal style.
Girl Crush
When it comes to the perfect blend of sweetness and charisma, nothing embodies this dual charm better than the Girl Crush style. As a trending concept in music, fashion, and entertainment, the most distinctive appeal of Girl Crush lies in its ability to evoke admiration and appreciation among women. Breaking free from the traditional image of femininity, which is often associated with delicacy and softness, this style redefines female allure with confidence, boldness, and a powerful presence, making a profound impact on global pop culture.
A custom matte Pink 5P & Gris Perle alligator Retourné Kelly 25 with brushed palladium hardware, Hermès, 2021. 25 w x 19 h x 9 d cm. Sold for HK$1,638,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
Unlike purely innocent cuteness or overt sensuality, the essence of Girl Crush centers on projecting a strong, self-assured aura. It masterfully blends refreshing sweetness with androgynous boldness, infusing softness with an undercurrent of strength and a rebellious spirit. This unique harmony of contrasts, tender yet fierce, is precisely what makes Girl Crush so captivating, embodying a fashion attitude that balances strength and grace.
A rare, shiny black Niloticus lizard Sellier Birkin 20 with palladium hardware Hermès, 2024. 20 w x 16 h x 11 d cm. Sold for HK$1,071,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
Preppy Style
Preppy Style (also known as Ivy League style) originated from the elite preparatory schools and Ivy League universities along America’s East Coast in the early 20th century. Students at these institutions cultivated a refined yet understated dress code that reflected both their privileged upbringing and commitment to traditional values.
A limited edition Rouge Sellier Epsom leather, black Tadelakt leather & Rose Darling Chèvre leather Casaque Etoilee Sellier Kelly 25 with palladium hardware, Hermès, 2024. 25 w x 19 h x 9 d cm. Sold for HK$226,800 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
What makes Preppy Style endure isn't merely its fashion appeal, but its embodiment of a lifestyle philosophy - one that values meticulous attention to detail, respect for tradition, while maintaining effortless ease. At its core lies the artful combination of timeless wardrobe staples that are both practical and thoughtfully detailed. This versatile aesthetic transitions seamlessly from formal occasions to everyday wear, perfectly capturing the essence of ‘Casual Elegance’.
A custom Argile & Alezan Swift leather & horse camouflage toile Birkin 30 with palladium hardware, Hermès, 2014. 30 w x 22 h x 15 d cm. Sold for HK$403,200 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
High-intellectual aesthetic
The ‘high-intellectual style’ is an aesthetic that artfully blends scholarly sophistication with minimalist principles. Centered around the concept of ‘intellectual charm,’ this style exudes a restrained yet profound elegance.
A matte béton alligator Retourné Kelly 25 with gold hardware, Hermès, 2023. 25 w x 19 h x 9 d cm. Sold for HK$504,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
In its color palette, it favors the understated refinement of neutral tones – classic combinations of black, white, gray, earth tones and navy blue serving as its foundation. Through meticulous details like premium materials and refined design, it conveys cultivated taste and intellectual depth.
Drawing inspiration from the precision of science and the sensibility of art, this approach conceals rich intellectual substance beneath its minimalist surface. In our rapidly evolving digital age, it offers those seeking both substance and style an aesthetic paradigm – a way to cultivate personal style with confident maturity rather than blind trend-following.

From left: A rare, matte white Himalaya Niloticus crocodile Retourné Kelly 28 with palladium hardware, Hermès, 2021. 28 w x 20 h x 10 d cm. Sold for HK$1,197,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong;a rare, matte white Himalaya Niloticus crocodile Birkin 25 with palladium hardware Hermès, 2021. 25 w x 19 h x 14 d cm. Sold for HK$1,386,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong;a rare, matte white Himalaya Niloticus crocodile Retourné Kelly 25 with palladium hardware Hermès, 2021. 25 w x 19 h x 9 d cm. Sold for HK$1,260,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
Cottagecore
Cottagecore is a term formed by combining ‘cottage’ and ‘core’, translating to ‘the essence of rural aesthetics’. At its heart, this style is a romantic interpretation of pastoral life, emphasizing three key principles: harmonious coexistence with nature, the revival of traditional crafts, and the promotion of a slow-paced lifestyle.

Clockwise, from top left: A limited edition Craie Swift leather & Osier Picnic Birkin 25 with palladium hardware, Hermès, 2023. 25 w x 19 h x 14 d cm. Sold for HK$441,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong ;a limited edition Gold Swift leather & Osier stripe Picnic Birkin 25 with palladium hardware, Hermès, 2024. 25 w x 19 h x 14 d cm. Sold for HK$567,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong ;a limited edition Gold Swift leather & Osier Mini Picnic Kelly with palladium hardware, Hermès, 2022. 18.5 w x 13.5 h x 7 d cm. Sold for HK$529,200 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong;a limited edition Vert Vertigo Swift leather & Osier Mini Picnic Kelly with palladium hardware, Hermès, 2023. 18.5 w x 13.5 h x 7 d cm. Sold for HK$352,800 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
This lifestyle aesthetic reconnects people with nature through everyday activities. Whether it's feeling the sunlight during a picnic, wandering through the forest, or tending to a garden. These simple yet poetic moments allow city dwellers to fulfill their longing for rural living. The true charm of Cottagecore lies in transforming an abstract yearning for the countryside into tangible, lived experiences.

(Left) A limited edition yellow Monogram Pumpkin bag with silver hardware by Yayoi Kusama, Louis Vuitton, 2023. 18 w x 21 h x 18 d cm. Sold for HK$252,000 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong; (Right) a limited edition silver Monogram Pumpkin bag with silver hardware by Yayoi Kusama, Louis Vuitton, 2023. 18 w x 21 h x 18 d cm. Sold for HK$163,800 on 26 May 2025 at Christie’s in Hong Kong
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