Less is more when we're talking about getting dressed in the summer months. Now's the time to leave the jackets at home — and to rethink any superfluous T-shirt layers or stuffy, itchy fabrics. But a bag is one piece you can't really opt out of as the seasons change. Whether it's a breezy 73 degrees or a brain-melting 98, you need a tote that can carry all of your summer-survival essentials (and maybe even complete your lewk in the process).
This season, there are a few standout silhouettes that should be on hand for all that summer has in store. With a trusty weekender, a compliment-getting basket bag, and a go-to crossbody for concerts and nights out, you can enjoy all the warm-weather festivities on your radar without having to worry about being weighed down. Click on for our new handbag picks — we're pretty sure "Summer Lovin'" was actually talking about the 25 pieces ahead.
The Everyday Crossbody
You're set for outdoor concerts, rooftop drinks, and anything else a summer night may send your way with a reliable bag that fits all your daily (or nightly) essentials. For this, stick with a neutral color that's bound to go with everything.
Cuero & Mor Crossbody Cognac, $395, available at Cuero & Mor.
Add some interest to a plain black crossbody by opting for a unique silhouette, like this geometric octagon.
Fossil Jules Octagon Leather Crossbody, $98, available at Fossil.
With this, you can bet no one else at the bar will have the same bag as you.
Samuji Roll Bag, $158.84, available at Samuji.
Let powder pink be your go-to summer hue.
Aritzia Leveck Crossbody, $250 $175, available at Aritzia.
What's better than a bucket bag? A bucket bag you can wear multiple ways.
Opening Ceremony Izzy Handbag Backpack, $595, available at Opening Ceremony.
The Mesh Carryall
Swap out your usual canvas tote for a shapeless mesh bag that's perfect for flea-market finds, picnic supplies, or a day trip to the beach.
Proud Mary Net Bag, $78, available at Urban Outfitters.
This heavy-duty bag expands to a full-size tote when needed, so it can be as small, or as large, as you'd like.
Doug Johnston Net Bag, $215, available at AHA.
For when you want to show off your weekend scores.
Anaak Crochet Fishnet Bag, $85, available at Garmentory.
Or try one that matches your denim shorts just so.
And So It Goes The Net Bag, $85 $64.99, available at Need Supply Co.
Even your all-black outfits will feel high-impact with this rainbow of a tote.
Zara Multicolored Striped Knit Bag, $22.90, available at Zara.
The Itty-Bitty Mini Purse
It's "Honey, I shrunk the handbag" with this summer's next essential accessory. For evenings in particular, it's time to leave the bulky backpacks and totes at home in exchange for an adorably tiny alternative that holds just the musts (we're talking a cell phone and a tampon), and get you tons of compliments in the process.
Gucci Sylvie Leather Mini Bag, $1,950, available at Gucci.
Little bag, big tassel.
Loeffler Randall Crossbody Pouch, $195, available at Loeffler Randall.
Normal handbag straps are so last year.
W Concept Ring Cylinder Bag, $138, available at W Concept.
A ladylike mini can make your jeans feel that much more polished.
Zara Contrast City Bag, $49.90, available at Zara.
It's called the "nano" for a reason.
Kara Poppy Nano Tie Crossbody, $350, available at Kara.
The Novelty Straw Tote
This isn't any old beach bag. For summer, straw bags can make just as much of an impact on the street as they do on the sand — and you'll want to wear this quirky, statement-making style to both.
Muzungu Sisters Multicolored Straw Sicilian Pom-Pom Basket, $405, available at Avenue 32.
When the straw bag meets the crossbody...
Rachel Comey Baan, $449, available at Rachel Comey.
A bag big enough to hold your laptop doesn't have to be boring.
Truss Small Crossbody Bag, $160, available at Opening Ceremony.
You've got free hands with this convenient straw bag/backpack hybrid.
Hat Attack Drawstring Backpack, $90, available at Shopbop.
Why not let this trend invade your clutch collection, too.
H&M Straw Clutch Bag, $9.99, available at H&M.
The Insta-Worthy Weekender
One of the best things about summer? All the weekend trips you have planned (and the Instagrams that come from them, of course). And since you'll be hitting the road so often, you'll need a bag to match.
Tommy Hilfiger Flag Signature Duffel, $49.50 $34.98, available at Tommy Hilfiger.
Consider it time to finally retire that college sorority duffel.
Everlane Dipped Weekender, $115, available at Everlane.
Minimalists will love this neutral option.
PB 0110 CM 17, $851.18, available at PB 0110.
Live that athleisure life, right down to your luggage.
Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffel, $99.99, available at Herschel Supply Co.
You've got the model-off-duty travel look down pat with this sleek, all-white weekender.
Clyde Duffel Bag, $668, available at Clyde.
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