2016 is Back: 6 It-Bags That Defined an Era

Perhaps it’s the return of skinny jeans, or perhaps it’s the collective craving for a time when fashion felt unapologetically bold, glossy, and a little bit extra — but one thing is certain: the internet has officially time-traveled back to 2016. A few effortless scrolls on Instagram confirm it — skinny silhouettes, choker necklaces, and, most notably, the it bags that once ruled every outfit flat lay and paparazzi shot alike.

But for some of us, 2016 really doesn’t feel like a distant era at all — it feels like yesterday. A time when “It bags” were instantly recognizable, logos were worn proudly, and every new drop sparked frenzy. And talking about it bags: narrowing these down didn’t take much time at all. Though feel free to let me know in the comments if there’s any bag I missed.

1. Chanel Boy Bag

Few bags captured the spirit of 2016 quite like the Chanel Boy Bag. With its sharp lines, chunky chain, and unapologetically cool attitude, it felt like a rebellious departure from the Classic Flap — and fashion insiders loved it for that. Worn crossbody with ripped skinny jeans or slung over the shoulder with a slip dress and leather jacket, the Boy Bag embodied the era’s obsession with androgyny and edge. And I am so glad it’s finally making a comeback.

2. Gucci Dionysus

Released in 2015 under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele, the Gucci Dionysus Bag instantly captured it girl attention with its eccentric design defined by a tiger head closure — a detail referencing the Greek god Dionysus, who in myth is said to have crossed the river Tigris on a tiger sent to him by Zeus. Not to even mention that this bag also embodied the new era for Gucci — one that celebrated excess, nostalgia, and romanticism. A true icon of its time.

3. Givenchy Pandora

Slouchy, architectural, and simply cool, the Givenchy Pandora was the definition of off-duty chic in 2016. Beloved by everyone from models and editors to celebrities and fashion girlies, it had that effortlesly cool look that defined street style of the time. My personal favorite version of the Pandora though is the more structured Pandora Box. In fact, I am currently looking for the black Givenchy Pandora Box in mini size to add to my collection. It will have to be pre-loved though, as Givenchy, has, sadly, discontinued the design.

4. Dior Diorama

Debuting as part of Dior’s Spring/Summer 2015 collection under the creative direction of Raf Simons, the Diorama Bag was instantly embraced as a modern classic thanks to its clean, rectangular silhouette, architectural flap closure, and graphic cannage pattern, which felt sharp yet timeless. Dior, however, ended up discontinuing the design circa 2020 (learn more here). And honestly, I’ve always considered this a bad move, as the Diorama possessed that rare, elusive edge, which is something we don’t see too often.

5. Chloé Drew Bag

Chloé seemed to be everywhere in 2016. From floaty dresses and suede jackets to lace-up sandals and soft, romantic silhouettes, the brand defined the era’s bohemian mood — and the Drew Bag sat right at the center of it all. With its rounded shape, delicate chain strap, and gleaming gold hardware, the Drew felt effortlessly feminine and chic. I can also remember it as the go-to for festivals, along with Chloé’s other icon, Marcie.

6. Louis Vuitton Pochette Métis

And of course, we can’t forget the Louis Vuitton Pochette Métis, which around 2016 was everywhere — and for good reason. It perfectly combined the era’s love of logo mania with real-world versatility. The structured satchel silhouette looked polished in photos, the top handle and crossbody strap made it easy to wear all day, and the iconic Monogram canvas ensured everyone knew exactly whose bag it was. The Pochette Metis was basically the ultimate “look good, carry everything” bag — and honestly, it still holds that crown today.

Which bags did you wear in 2016? My faves were the Chanel Boy and the Pochette Métis!