Don't call it a comeback—call it an evolution. Vera Bradley's newest collection is by no means a wild divergence, and the throughline from the bags beloved by fans in the past is clear: the same bones, just with elevated fabrications and a few new silhouettes in the mix.
Yes, the quilted, cushiony look the brand made a signature is still here—the cotton gabardine that was the perfect cottagecore accessory before the hashtag had ever been spawned. And the warm, bright prints look especially gorgeous in the new line's luxe oxford canvas, a material with rich tactile dimension that also stands up well to the wear of everyday life.
For Vera Bradley, versatility has always been a major factor. Silhouettes can be dressed up or down, brought on everyday errands, or tucked into a suitcase as the ideal on-the-go travel bag. And there's more good news: Spot a shape that particularly appeals? It's likely made in every material the brand offers.
Sitting at the most polished end of the spectrum are the bags wrought in full-grain leather—a new and very appealing look for the brand. Playful options are in the mix, too, with bright colors and floral line drawings, but the majority of the styles are in sophisticated neutrals like warm brown, creamy ecru, and a nearly perfect olive green.
If Vera Bradley made the bag of your younger years, its Hathaway Tote in Roasted Pecan might be the MVP of your grown-up closet. Roomy enough to work as a carry-on, it has a structured shape that also makes it perfect for lighter loads (read: It won't flop and fold if it's not stuffed to the absolute brim). The Hathaway also has the simple but essential touches that make totes a must, like long-enough straps to easily fit over your shoulder even in coat weather, an interior zipper pouch large enough to stash a phone and small wallet (plus two slot pockets), and a single toggle closure that makes an open-top style a little bit less of a spill danger.
The bottom line? Don't call it a comeback. Call it another chapter of a love story.
