Prada's Route Bag Is a Perfect Balance Between Form and Function
Debuted at their S/S 2026 show, the Route proves that a fashion girl can never have too many pockets.
by Em Enriquez
Published on Apr 14, 2026
Prada returned to form for its Spring/Summer 2026 presentation last January, held at its home base, the Fondazione Prada.
On orange-lacquered floors, models strutted in vivid hues and reconstructed silhouettes that challenged the conventions of womenswear. Harking back to Prada's utilitarian roots were the selection of handbags that promised to be as functional as they were stylish. Among the debutantes at the show was the Route, a lofty carrier that has since become a fashion girl's reliable go-to.
Meet the Prada Route Bag
Titled "Body of Composition," the show mused on themes of contrast, fluidity, and how notions of clothing should remain uninhibited. Tailored jumpsuits were juxtaposed with satin gloves, brassières were displayed nonchalantly, and colors clashed in unexpectedly pleasing ways.
Offsetting such dichotomies were the jet-black bags clutched by models, some left intentionally ajar. A scene-stealer was the Route, a multi-pocket model rendered in leather and canvas. The piece featured a bevy of straps, buckles, and buttons, making it an instant stand-out that resonates with Prada's brand DNA.
Contrary to the impression that one sacrifices style for function, the Route has pockets and compartments that can house just about anything. "A key element of the Prada language, the pocket becomes the bag’s defining structural principle," the brand expresses about their newest offering. "Repeated with rigor, it shapes the volumes across the different versions, tracing essential surfaces and decisive constructions."
The Route is bulky and ridiculously capacious, and that's exactly the point. With its introduction, Prada hopes to further the mindset that fashion is not mere ornamentation but an integral aspect of one's day-to-day life.
How Much the Prada Route Bag Costs
The Route is currently available in a variety of styles and shapes, with a neutral color palette (save for a military green shade) that remains consistent across models.
The most common tote bag style measures 25 cm in height, 34 cm in width, and 17 cm in length, while its medium iteration measures 22 cm in height, 30 cm in width, and 15 cm in length. A major difference between the two is the additional front pocket in the large version.
Bucket and duffle-inspired styles of the Route have also been introduced. Depending on the size and fabrication you choose, prices range from P140,000 to P300,000. See the full selection here.
Route Large Canvas and Leather Tote Bag in Black, approximately P198,716.10
Route Large Leather Tote Bag in Cocoa Brown, approximately P301,135
Route Medium Leather Tote Bag in Chalk White, approximately P237,201
Large Canvas and Leather Tote Bag in Military Green, approximately P192,688
Mini Canvas and Leather Tote Bag in Black, approximately P144,520.80
Route Large Leather Bag in Cocoa Brown, approximately P207,748.65
Route Large Leather Top-Handle Bag in Black, approximately P222,839.88
photos to expand
Style Stars Wearing the Prada Route Bag
The Route has already made its rounds in the wardrobes of Asia's best-dressed gals. For Prada ambassador Toey Jarinporn, the all-black leather version is a versatile pick that sits comfortably on one's shoulder. Her fellow Thai darlings Namtan Tipnaree and June Plearnpichaya, and even Malaysian neighbor Eyka Farhana, seem to agree with their earth-toned choices.
Elsewhere in the region, the brown nappa leather Route has been adored by Hallyu stars Gawon of MEOVV, Sana of TWICE, and actress Lee Se Young. Also attesting to this are Taiwanese screen star Nikki Hsieh and Hong Kong singer Jace Chan. For a bit of variety, Singaporean style siren Yoyo Cao copped her Route in a camo-esque motif. You really can't go wrong with any palette you go for!
Shop the Route at the Prada boutique located in Greenbelt 4, Makati.
Check out more of the maison's offerrings on prada.com
Em is queer and probably daydreaming somewhere. They're Preview's associate entertainment editor who's often spotted in cowboy boots and lemon-tinted sunnies.