Reed Krakoff Brings a Unique Touch to Gap's New Handbag Line
By Editor • September 1, 2026 • 2 min read
In a surprising yet intriguing move, Gap Inc. has enlisted the talents of Reed Krakoff, the former creative director of Coach, to launch a dedicated handbag collection called GapBags. This marks a significant step for the iconic American brand as it seeks to carve out a niche in the competitive accessories market.
Krakoff, a three-time CFDA Accessories Designer of the Year, has a storied history in fashion, having previously helmed design at major labels like Tommy Hilfiger and Tiffany & Co. His influence during his 16-year tenure at Coach saw the brand transform into a billion-dollar powerhouse. Now, as Gap Inc.’s Executive Director of Accessories, Krakoff is set to redefine the brand’s accessories portfolio.
“It started organically,” Krakoff shared in a recent interview. A chance meeting with Gap Inc. CEO Richard Dickson sparked a conversation about the brand’s lack of a substantial accessories line, leading to the birth of the GapBags concept. Krakoff aims to leverage Gap’s rich heritage and recognizable style to create handbags that resonate with consumers.
The upcoming GapBags collection, launching on September 8, features designs that mirror Gap’s recognizable silhouettes, including the Five-Pocket denim tote and a cotton hoodie bag inspired by the brand's classic items. “It’s about creating something you don’t have to explain; it could only come from Gap,” Krakoff noted.
He emphasized that the design process began by identifying iconic elements of the brand — such as denim detailing and utility clothing — to ensure that the bags were not just functional but also reflected Gap's casual yet stylish identity. This allowed for a blend of luxury with accessible pricing, a balance that Krakoff believes is crucial to success in today’s market.
GapBags also aims to cater to the growing trend of personalization in fashion, incorporating charms and keychains into the collection. Krakoff explained, “It’s very much about self-expression,” noting that the addition of customizable features aligns with Gap’s ethos of individual style.
As Gap strives to regain its status as a relevant player in the fashion world, the new handbag line arrives at a time when the brand is experiencing a resurgence. With a fresh marketing approach and collaborations with high-profile talent, Gap is working to reignite consumer interest in its offerings. The logo hoodie bag, for instance, is designed to appeal to a broad audience, emphasizing versatility and wearability for various occasions.
Krakoff's vision for GapBags is not just about creating another line of handbags; it’s about encapsulating the essence of what Gap represents: affordable, cool, and laid-back American design. As he puts it, this collection is meant for both fashion enthusiasts and everyday consumers looking for stylish yet practical accessories.
Source: www.highsnobiety.com
