28 Chain Bags to Accessorize With—From Ultra-Classics to Modern Remixes

Hardware can make or break a handbag. Overly shiny or the wrong shade of gold or silver metals can steer the accessory in a cheap-looking direction. On the other hand, the best chain bags that excel in quality metals and uniquely integrated zippers and chains can elevate the overall accessory.

With this sentiment in mind, the pursuit for the perfect chain bag will rely on these qualities while also checking off the boxes for fabric, color, shape, and size. And though chunky chains might sound too heavy for spring’s lifted palettes, designers have risen to the occasion with strong options that run the gamut of personal style. 

A highlight of the season, JW Anderson’s enlarged chains are both stitched onto the front of leather totes and woven into the handles of brightly-hued satchels. At Chanel, Virginie Viard introduces a printed hobo bag for spring accented by a duet of silver chain link straps. And other mainstays in the chain bags category continue to contribute to the conversation, from Bottega Veneta and Stella McCartney to Chloe and Burberry. Ahead, 28 picks to prove the chain bag is a perennial staple.

1/28

Gucci Dionysus chain bag

Pink corduroy and silver chain straps; an unlikely (but harmonious) pairing.

2/28

Lanvin leather bag

The milky white hue and saturated yellow gold straps speak to modern minimalism.

3/28

Kara chain-detailed bike wallet

Cross-body chain links are a supremely cool take on the hardware trend.

4/28

Givenchy moon-cut shoulder bag

Not for the shy type, this electric chain bag is an instant mood booster.

5/28

By Far Rachel chain-embellished shoulder bag

Introducing your go-to spring wedding guest accessory.

6/28

Tory Burch Cleo bag

With its doctors’s bag shape, this Tory Burch purse is equal parts retro and modern.

7/28

Ulla Johnson Mira clutch crossbody bag

8/28

JW Pei Julia chain crossbody

Lime green gives that element of playfulness every wardrobe deserves.

9/28

Stella McCartney the Frayme Zipit shoulder bag

It’s spring—a straw bag is in order.

10/28

Proenza Schouler woven shoulder bag

While usually done in shades of sand and beige, woven textures also translate beautifully to a white colorway.

11/28

Themoire Gea recycled top-handle bag

The kind of piece that naturally garners compliments.

12/28

Jimmy Choo Callie jewel netted top-handle bag

The kind of festive party bag investment you’ll carry year after year.

13/28

Staud Tommy croc-effect shoulder bag

Carry with a romantic ruched blouse or a pared-back white tee and jeans.

14/28

Cuyana bow bag

Switch between the knotted handle and chain strap for versatility.

15/28

JW Anderson chain tote bag

The contrast between this tiny tote and its large chain detail makes for a strong statement bag.

16/28

Manu Atelier Kesme shoulder bag

At once modern and timeless, this leather shoulder bag is a year-round pick.

17/28

Off-White Burrow-15 pouch

The subtle cutout and silver straps add an edge to this pastel pink pick.

18/28

Bottega Veneta chain pouch

Forever a classic, Bottega Veneta’s chain-link bags are the ultimate in sophistication.

19/28

Jacquemus Le Sac Ciuciu shoulder bag

Make this spring the season you take the plunge with an electric hue, like fuchsia.

20/28

Kate Spade Smile crossbody bag

Half-moon shapes already feel exciting—especially with a chain strap in the mix.

21/28

Tom Ford mini label top-handle bag

Swap out your neutrals for a powdery purple.

22/28

Burberry Olympia bag

A pop of pale purple is more versatile than you might think.

23/28

Chloé small Juana day bag

An example of the style synergy between silver chain links and soft, elegant leather.

24/28

Cult Gaia Sylvia bamboo shoulder bag

Cult Gaia’s iconic bamboo bag receives an update via a gold chain.

25/28

Mansur Gavriel chain handle bag

For a bag that achieves the perfect balance of prim and slick.

26/28

Balenciaga Hourglass shiny chain wallet

A cloud-white pick gives a subtle nod to romantic spring dressing.

27/28

Dior Caro bag

Swap out your minaudière for this compact-sized staple.

28/28

Marques Almeida multipocket clasp bag

For the lover of cleverly designed storage.