After the winter we had, the arrival of summer has never been so hotly anticipated. All we can say is thank goodness it's finally here. And now it's time for the fun bit—what to wear?! From minidresses to linen, blouses to flip flops, summer trends are trending, but the one wardrobe piece we personally feel makes a huge difference to all your summer looks, is a great handbag.
When it comes to the best summer handbags, they often need a chuck-it-all-in quality. You want to be able to squeeze in a bottle of rosé, suncream and multiple park snacks. There are certain styles that will always be popular in summer for this very reason, such as an oversize basket bag or a practical canvas holdall. Loewe is a designer that really leads the way here, as its logo-patch raffia tote has been out for several years, and is still a highly sought-after, timeless investment.
But it's not just basket bags that should get a look in. Other handbags I have noticed that are popular every single year are fresh white bags, XL totes, cute crochet numbers, stripes and even some bright colour pops if you're looking to stand out. Keep scrolling to see the eight handbags that instantly give you a summer feeling.
See the Summer Handbag Trends On Our Radar:
1. Classic Basket Bags
Style Notes: We have Loewe and Celine to thank for the now-iconic basket bag that you'll find in the wardrobe of every fashion insider. Classic raffia bags in a tote or bucket shape with tan or black leather detailing are the most popular, and those with a pared-back finish can be relied on to give any summer outfit a luxury feel.
Shop Basket Bags:
This Paseo style is firmly on our wish list.
Still the dream beach bag.
Love the chocolate detailing on this M&S style.
This leather style will never date.
2. White Leather Bags
Style Notes: Whether you go mini or oversize, white leather handbags go with every summer outfit, especially for events, making it more practical than you might think. Black leather might be a classic, but white leather is the summer alternative we can't wait to wear with pretty dresses, light blouses, denim, floaty skirts... You get the picture.
Shop White Leather Bags:
Such a pretty shape to wear no matter the season, or year.
Minimalists will love this cool shoulder bag.
The woven leather gives a beachy vibe.
You'll probably want to wear this to every upcoming wedding.
3. XXL Totes
Style Notes: With long days in parks or day trips to the beach on the agenda, it's no surprise that practical, oversized tote bags are more popular than ever. If its big enough to hold a laptop, a book, your phone, keys, chargers, snacks, sun cream, water bottle, and looks good while doing it, it ticks every box of requirements.
Shop XXL Totes:
Be quick, the best COS bags sell out so fast.
So much room!
A classic basket but in a maxi style for those who like their totes roomy.
Suede is so chic even in summer.
4. Colour Pop Bags
Style Notes: From Bottega Veneta to Zara, Chanel to COS, you can usually find this joyful bag trend everywhere during the summer season. Pair with prints for a maximalist finish or add a pop to neutrals to bring the fun.
Shop Colour Pop Bags:
You can always count on JW Pei for an expensive-looking bag.
So cute!
Summer in bag form.
It's not just red shoes that are a thing this season.
5. Striped Totes
Style Notes: Add some personality to your picnic or beach outfits with a striped bag in either a rainbow or monochrome colours and wait for the compliments to roll in.
Shop Stripe Bags:
You'll never regret buying this.
The Row always have the coolest pieces.
So much love for this.
There's no arguing with this.
6. Crochet Bags
Shop Crochet Bags:
Just a little nautical.
This looks so much more expensive than it is.
Every stylish friend of mine wants one of these totes this summer.
Soooo chic.
7. Canvas Holdalls
Shop Canvas Totes:
Top of my wish list.
This is just the right amount of preppy.
If Bottega is doing a canvas tote you know they're on trend.
A great affordable option.
I really rate Massimo's bag offering at the moment.
8. Woven Shoulder Bags
Shop Woven Bags:
I can't decide if I love the brown or white version of this the most.
I've owned this bag for three years now and it still looks brand new.
Monikh is a big fan of the green version of this bag.
This feels totally luxurious.
A really great more affordable option.
Why Trust Us?
At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.
We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.
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