The experience of unboxing a handbag can be just as important as the handbag itself. See how these simple but elegant packaging tips and trends can add value to your brand.
Table of Contents
Why packaging for handbags is so important
Trends to create attractive handbag packaging
Packaging for handbags can enhance their value
Why packaging for handbags is so important
The handbag market is a highly profitable but competitive industry. Globally, the market is projected to grow to US $78.46 billion in 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.7 percent from 2021-2028.
The dominant players in the market are luxury brands, including Michael Kors, Burberry, Prada, and Gucci. As a result, the leading trend in handbag packaging is to emulate the premium experience of these luxury designer brands.
The goal of premium packaging is to add value to the product by creating a rewarding and unforgettable experience for customers at every step of the shopping experience. Brands can make their handbags feel like a luxury product with thoughtful packaging that incorporates trends such as minimalist design and sustainable packaging.
Trends to create attractive handbag packaging
Paper cards or hang tags
Cards or hang tags are often included with a handbag to identify the brand, provide information on the product, or outline care instructions. They can be hung on the bag or placed separately in the box.
Paper is a common material for both card inserts and product tags because plastic is rarely used by high-end brands. Cards or tags can be elevated with extra details such as lamination, metallic finishes, or textured embossing. The lettering or logo can also be highlighted with UV varnish or hot foil stamping in silver or gold.
Cards and tags are finishing touches that contribute to the professionalism of a brand. Sellers are encouraged to include only essential information on the insert cards. If there is not enough space on a card to print all relevant information, the use of a booklet is another option.
Pretty tissue paper
Handbags are generally stuffed and wrapped so that they retain their shape and are not damaged during transport. Tissue paper is a good option for this type of packaging as it is prettier and more tasteful than bubble wrap or air cushions. Due to its breathable properties, tissue wrapping paper is recommended for leather bag packaging as well.
Tissue paper in a neutral color with minimal branding is ideal as packing paper. Neutral colors look more refined than bright colors and will not bleed onto the product. One should look specifically for acid free tissue paper. Acid free paper is designed to last longer and be more eco-friendly than regular paper.
When stuffing a handbag, there should be just enough tissue paper for the bag to hold its natural shape. Overstuffing a handbag can create excess pressure that is harmful to leather or textiles. The hardware on a handbag should also be wrapped to ensure there are no scratches once the customer receives the product.
High-quality dust bags
Dust bags are a staple of luxury handbag packaging. They are used to cover a handbag and protect it from dust, sun exposure, moisture, and color transfer. Many customers will keep and reuse dust bags to store their handbags at home.
Cover bags are commonly made from cotton and designed with a drawstring closure at the top. Flannel cotton is the most popular fabric because it gives a sense of quality and is soft enough to protect leather. Even though dust bags can be made from synthetic fibers, it should be advised synthetic fabrics may cause mold if excess moisture becomes trapped inside the drawstring bag.
To prevent color transfer, dust storage bags should be neutral in color with an understated logo. A different color and fabric, such as cotton, nylon, or polyester, can be used on the drawstring as a stylish accent.
Rigid packaging boxes
An element of quality purse packaging is a box that can withstand the rigorous conditions of warehousing and shipping. Rigid packaging boxes ensure handbags arrive to the customer unharmed.
Handbag packaging boxes should be made from sturdy and thick cardboard. Eco-conscious customers will also appreciate how easily high-quality cardboard boxes can be repurposed into storage boxes. While die-cut foam, satin cloth lining, or cardboard filling on the inside of the box can be used for clutch or mini purse packaging, it is otherwise uncommon for other types of purses.
There is opportunity to use interesting colors and print on a packaging box, but luxury bag packaging generally leans towards minimalist design. Additional details like a magnetic closure or satin ribbon bow will ensure customers have a memorable unboxing experience.
Upscale carrier bags
A trend towards reusing designer bag packaging, particularly shopping bags, as status symbols means it is important for carrier bags to be durable and appear high-end.
Upscale shopping bags are often made from paper and produced in a neutral color or a color that is strongly associated with the brand. Paper tote bags should be manufactured in a size and shape that fits the dimensions of the handbag packaging box.
A glamorous UV gloss coating on the outside with a single printed brand name or logo will ensure the carrier bag is noticeable from afar but not too showy. Satin ribbon or cotton rope handles can also give the paper bag an elegant touch.
Packaging for handbags can enhance their value
The global handbag market offers a lot of opportunity for profit, but it requires competing against high-end labels. Attractive and attentive packaging for handbags is a way emerging brands can position themselves for success.
Tissue packing paper, dust bag covers, and rigid packaging boxes are all items intended to protect the purses and show that sellers care about the product as much as customers do. Well-designed paper cards, tags and shopping totes are other elements of packaging for purses that can be used to make a strong brand statement.
With the growth of the handbag industry being driven by young adults on social media, brands should aim to craft a memorable unboxing experience that customers will look forward to sharing online. They should also pay attention to how packaging can enhance the perceived value of and excitement around their products, thus attracting and retaining customers.
