Emma Watson attended the Venice Film Festival this year, marking a notable public appearance.

The actress was seen wearing a beige Gucci mini dress, featuring the brand’s signature canvas and leather trim. The outfit drew attention for its clean lines and classic style, consistent with Gucci’s recent collections.

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She paired the dress with brown slingback heels and carried a Prada shoulder bag, complementing the look with understated accessories. Her hairstyle featured a honey-blonde bob, styled simply for the occasion.

Later in the day, Watson changed into a lime-green dress by British designer Emilia Wickstead. The dress’s design referenced mid-20th century fashion, with a structured silhouette and minimal embellishment. She accessorised the look with an emerald pendant necklace.

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Watson’s appearance at Venice was her first major public event in some time, as she has largely stepped back from film promotions and red carpets in recent years. Known for her advocacy on sustainability and women’s rights, she has focused on projects outside mainstream media.

Neither dress was accompanied by overt branding or heavy styling, reflecting Watson’s known preference for subtle elegance.

The Venice Film Festival continues to be a significant platform for actors and designers alike, and Watson’s choice to attend in these thoughtful outfits adds to her reputation for measured, deliberate public appearances.

Fashion’s nostalgia wave is in full swing this autumn, and brown handbags are leading the charge. Once relegated to the “safe choice” category, these bags are now appearing everywhere, from bustling high streets to glossy runway shows, proving that classic shades can have bold, modern appeal. From rich chocolate satchels to warm caramel totes, brown bags are no longer just practical; they’re the statement piece your wardrobe has been waiting for.

The Revival of a Classic

For years, black dominated the handbag scene. Dependable, yes, but often predictable. This season, designers and shoppers are turning to brown. From caramel totes to espresso shoulder bags, the colour adds warmth and depth, giving outfits an instant refresh.

The trend reflects a broader revival of 70s-inspired fashion, with earthy tones, soft textures, and natural leathers in the spotlight. Brown bags fit perfectly with this nostalgic yet contemporary mood.

Why They Work Now

Brown bags integrate naturally into modern wardrobes. They look sharp with tailored blazers, relaxed with denim, and refined against creams, rusts, and other muted tones. There is a quiet sophistication in brown that feels easy to style for the season. It enhances an outfit without overpowering it.

Styles Worth Watching

Structured top-handle bags in dark shades are increasingly popular, often finished with polished leather or subtle metal detailing. Tan slouch bags complement oversized coats and wide-leg trousers, while compact cross-body styles in nutmeg or rust tones bring a hint of vintage appeal. The wide spectrum of brown shades makes them versatile enough to pair with both contemporary and retro looks.

Everyday Essential or Long-Term Investment?

The appeal of this trend lies in its flexibility. A designer bag in soft-grain leather can be a wardrobe staple for years, while a high-street version in warm chestnut or toffee tones feels just as current. Either way, a brown handbag brings style, practicality, and wearable charm, making it a smart addition to any wardrobe.

Final Word 

Brown handbags have stepped out of black’s shadow. Once overlooked, they are now a key accessory for the season, versatile, stylish, and reflecting a broader move toward natural, timeless fashion. Adding one to your collection is an easy way to refresh your autumn wardrobe while keeping your look polished and grounded.

Notting Hill recently burst with colour, music, and energy as Europe’s largest street festival returned for its 59th edition. Over two million people filled the streets, swept up by the rhythms of Caribbean sound and dazzled by a spectacle of costumes, parades, and celebration.

Dancing from Dawn to Dusk

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The carnival kicked off with J’ouvert at sunrise, a messy, lively start marked by paint, powder, and playful chaos. By Monday, the grand parade unfolded through the neighbourhood, with dancers in feathered, glittering outfits weaving past cheering crowds. Soca, calypso, steelpan, and samba rhythms flowed naturally, pulling everyone into the moment. Brazilian samba schools and local mas bands like Mahogany and Chocolate Nation brought their own flair, merging tradition with showmanship in a way that felt natural and smooth.

Overcoming Obstacles

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Behind the scenes, the event almost faced cancellation. Funding concerns threatened the carnival, but a last-minute £1 million boost from local councils ensured it went ahead. Security was tighter than ever, with around 7,000 officers deployed, and facial recognition technology was used to help keep the crowds safe. Despite these precautions, the carnival’s energy never wavered. Attendees laughed, danced, and celebrated as if nothing could interrupt the weekend’s unadulterated joy.

A Future Worth Fighting For

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Even as the music faded and the streets emptied, organisers reminded Londoners that the carnival’s survival isn’t guaranteed. Rising costs and logistical challenges mean support is crucial if this iconic celebration is to continue. For now, Notting Hill’s streets remain a canvas of colour, culture, and unforgettable energy, proving the power of community and tradition when they collide in the heart of the city.