The Surprising Brand Turning Heads in the Handbag World

It’s not Chanel, and it’s not Hermès. In fact, it’s not even a brand typically included in luxury handbag discussions. But make no mistake – American fashion icon Ralph Lauren is having a major fashion moment.

ralph lauren Polo ID Shoulder Bag

Long known for its preppy, all-American aesthetic, the brand is stepping back into the spotlight in a big way. Case in point. Ralph Lauren just scored its highest spot on the Vogue Business Index since 2022, ranking fourth thanks to its attainability and booming social media engagement. One category, in particular, is driving the momentum: handbags. From polished totes to sleek crossbodies, Ralph Lauren’s high-end labels are turning heads – and landing on the arms of fashion lovers across the globe. Whether it’s the accessible price point, elevated design, or a shift in consumer views of luxury, the buzz is undeniable.

So what are the standout styles driving the hype? Here’s a closer look at Ralph Lauren’s hottest handbags right now.

Polo Play Tote

First up, a chic new style that may look a little familiar to luxury handbag aficionados. While not quite the Hermès Picotin, the Polo Play Tote offers H-inspired vibes. Recognized for its chic and slouchy bucket-bag silhouette, the Polo Play Tote captures the essence of Ralph Lauren’s iconic Polo shirt, thanks to its pared-back design, complete with a signature Pony emblem embossed at the bottom front.

Image courtesy: Ralph Lauren

Crafted with Italian full-grain leather with a pebbled finish, this grab-and-go tote features tank-top style top handles and a removable crossbody strap, allowing for hand carry and crossbody wear. Featuring an open top, the bag is secured with a snapped leather tab closure at the top, allowing for easy access to the bag’s contents.

Image courtesy: Ralph Lauren

The Polo Play bag comes in two unlined, full-leather sizes. The smaller version measures 7.75 x 10.5 x 5.5 inches – comparable to the Hermès Picotin 18, but with the added versatility of a crossbody strap. The larger size, a spacious 11.25 x 15.5 x 7 inches, is strictly a top-handle bag, featuring two sturdy handles with a 7.75-inch drop.

Image courtesy: Ralph Lauren

Prices start at $498 for the Polo Play Leather Small Tote and Crossbody, while the larger version retails for $598. Color options include a range of vibrant hues, including Cherry, Canary Yellow, Parrot, and a certain shade of orange that might feel familiar to luxury lovers – Orange Peel.

Image courtesy: Ralph Lauren

The Ralph Calfskin Tote

Bold yet refined, the Ralph Tote made its debut on the Spring-Summer 2025 runway. With its clean, structured silhouette and sculptural wooden top handles, the design speaks to the brand’s heritage of elevated Americana. A belted front strap secured with a buckle adds a saddlery-inspired touch, while subtle foil-stamped branding keeps the look polished yet discreet.

Image courtesy: @ralphlauren

Crafted from supple calfskin and lined in suede, the tote features a magnetic top closure and includes a matching removable canvas zip pouch, a key bell, and a calfskin shoulder strap for added versatility. It comes in two sizes – the standard measures 9.5 x 7.7 x 7.7 inches, while the larger version offers enough space for a laptop, measuring 13 x 9.75 x 8.25 inches.

The Ralph Calfskin Totespring summer 2025

Image courtesy: @ralphlauren

The bag is offered in a limited palette of neutrals, including Bordeaux, Black, and ‘RL Gold’ – a shade strikingly reminiscent of Hermès’ iconic Gold, complete with its signature white contrast stitching. Hardware finishes vary by color, with both gold- and silver-tone options available. The Ralph Tote in calfskin retails for $3,600 in the classic size and $4,400 in the large.

Image courtesy: Vogue Runway

Polo ID Shoulder Bag

The Polo ID Shoulder Bag embodies Ralph Lauren’s signature blend of equestrian elegance with refined minimalism. Its crescent-shaped design features a dual-compartment saddle silhouette, slightly raised bombé detailing on the strap, and a flexible bonded suede interior, offering a sophisticated balance of structure and softness.

Reminiscent of Hermès’ equally equestrian-inspired Arçon bag, the Polo ID Shoulder Bag embraces understated luxury with its clean lines and saddle-like silhouette. Free from external pockets or overt logos, the design keeps things minimal and polished. A subtle metal plaque, featuring Ralph Lauren’s iconic Polo player, adds a finishing touch – and gives the bag its name.

Image courtesy: @thefashionbugblog

Image courtesy: @thefashionbugblog

The Polo ID Shoulder Bag is available in three sizes – Mini, Small, and Large – each offering versatile styling options.

Size	Dimensions (inches)	Strap Drop	Carry Options	Price (USD)
Mini	7 x 10.25 x 4	8.5 maximum	Shoulder, handheld & wristlet	$498
Small	10 x 10 x 1	9 maximum, adjustable	Crossbody & shoulder	$598
Large	16.75 x 15.5 x 1.5	13.2 maximum, adjustable	Shoulder & high crossbody	$798

Image courtesy: @amydiala

ralph lauren

The Polo ID Shoulder Bag is available in a variety of luxurious fabrications and colors. Opt for smooth calfskin in classic shades like Tan and Black, or choose full-grain leather in Ivory, Marine Navy, and Cuoio for added texture. For those who prefer suede, options include Clay, Night, Bluebell, and Black. Depending on the color and material, the bag is finished with either gold-tone or silver-tone hardware, adding a refined touch to its minimal design.