Hands down, the best part of summer for me is getting out and about and making plans with friends. Some of my favorite warm-weather activities include day trips, hiking, breweries with patios, dinner dates, and anything that will wear out my children. And, of course, for those of us who think about these things, with going and doing comes the need to plan outfits. Part of outfits is accessories, and part of accessories are bags. Handbags, totes, crossbody, and even bookbags are all on the table, especially as different activities require different types of bags for both practical and fashionable purposes. Here’s a rundown of this season’s list of it-bags and some suggestions on snagging a few for yourself.
Consider carrying a pouch-style purse for special occasions this season, like weddings. These types of bags are more for show than storage. Unlike clutches, pouches have a strap or handle. I love the idea of a drawstring closure, which can be minimal or bejeweled and sparkly. Macy’s INC International Concept Doris sparkle mesh pouch is definitely a glamorous option. It’s in the name “sparkle mesh,” and comes in silver or black, and will look striking at any fancy event. I’d also recommend sites like Poshmark or eBay to search for vintage options, like velvet or embroidered clasp and chain bags.
Of course, fancy affairs are few and far between. For everyday occasions or for simply running around, consider a boater tote. This is a fairly practical bag with room to carry all of your essentials this season. I like the classic Boat and Tote Zip-Top from L.L. Bean. It comes in different sizes and strap lengths and almost a dozen different colors. Plus, the heavy-duty cotton canvas is durable enough for this and many summers to come. If you own a boat or find yourself often on the water, then why not have your bag style embrace that theme with a recycled sailcloth tote from Sea Bags Maine? You can even customize your bag with your boat or lot’s name! Boat totes are also great overnight bags for any weekend getaways.
If you’re looking for a more versatile bag this summer, then consider an everyday bag that can be worn or slung in multiple ways. I love a hybrid backpack/tote like Bridling’s Backpacker bag. It has the straps for a bookbag and the handles of a tote bag. Plus, side pockets for water bottles and a front zip pocket for essentials like hand sanitizer, tissues, and bandages. For a chicer version of this bag style, check out Fossil’s selection of convertible backpack purses and bags. Their Elina convertible backpack comes in a range of sizes, patterns, and prices for your 9-to-5 bag needs.
A good straw bag is a classic summer staple. Whether you’re headed to the beach or the market, there’s no better companion than a straw bag during the warmer months. Straw bags can be made from straw, raffia, or rattan and can come in shapes ranging from bucket-shoppers to extra-large totes to clutches. Even though straw bags can lean toward the practical, I kind of prefer a more novelty color and shape. QTKJ Mini Semi-Circle Rattan straw bag available on Amazon comes in your traditional khaki but also blue, mint green, yellow, and orange for a pop of color when you’re on the go. Target’s A New Day straw chain shoulder bag also comes in vibrant colors of pink and green with both a removable chain handle and shoulder strap, making it a day bag and something to wear for nights out.
Another way to add a bit of color to your summer-time wardrobe is with baguettes! Once ubiquitous in the early 2000s, this bag is back on trend. You can check out the selection at Nordstrom Rack or, if you’re searching for an original designer version of this it-bag from back in the day, try searching on reseller sites like ThredUp and the Real Real. Whether new or new to you, these bags are perfect for those summer nights.
If your summer activities are more of the weekend-warrior variety, then gear up with a trail pack. REI’s Co-op Flash 22 print pack comes in several patterns to suit your taste while also having the space for on-the-hike essentials. G4Free 20L lightweight, packable hiking backpack available on Amazon is majorly geared out for camping and kayaking, with a wet pocket, and can fold itself into a waterproof bag. This pack comes in basic black as well as teal and floral/fauna patterns if you’re feeling like adding some print and color to the outdoors.
Whether your summer is packed with fun or just lazy days, hopefully, you’ll have the right bag for whatever your needs.
