Fresh Picks: 8 Stylish Bags for Your Spring Wardrobe
I’ve always been a believer in the power of accessories to make an outfit look and feel complete. And that goes double for handbags. Not only are the best bags functional, but they’re “front and center” in giving your look a finishing touch. Spring and summer clothes call for visually lighter accessories, so I’ve rounded up some stylish spring bags to inspire you…
Spring bags to elevate your look
Look for bags in lighter colors, and with some texture to add visual interest. While I’ve shown mostly neutrals below, you can always opt for a pop of color if your clothing is neutral. Don’t worry about matching your shoes and bags; mixing it up has a more relaxed and modern feel.
Tote bags
My sizes: Sweater – Small, Tee – XS, Jeans 1(8)
(Here’s a similar cardigan that’s more budget-friendly, and available in several colors in Misses, Petite, Plus and Plus Petite sizes.)
This raffia tote with sequin trim from Vanessa Bruno adds a little bit of French flair and nonchalance to a simple look. I bought this one last year, but it’s still available here (yes, they do ship to the US). I carried this bag quite a bit last summer, and received compliments on it every time.
👉 And here’s a slightly smaller raffia tote with a similar look from MZ Wallace.
MZ Wallace Small Metro Tote Deluxe
If you prefer a fabric bag, this quilted tote is available in several colors, has great interior organization, and is very lightweight.
Paris-Milano crochet beach tote
A cute and not too large crochet tote for casual, beach, and farmers’ market days…
Lands’ End Canvas 5-pocket tote
This perennial favorite comes in a rainbow of colors, and you can choose between zip or open top, and long or short handles.
Personalize it with your initials, or something cheeky!
I mostly use pouches in my totes to help stay organized, but have also found that lightweight purse and bag organizers like this one can work well too.
Shoulder and crossbody bags
Madewell straw crossbody sling
This cute and functional sling bag adds a nice bit of natural texture to any outfit. The adjustable strap and bottom are leather. This little bag has one interior pocket, and holds more than you might think!
There’s also a large tote, and small shopper (with an optional crossbody strap) in the same finishes.
If your style is more classic, or you just prefer a more structured bag, this style garners great reviews, and is a best-seller.
Quince Italian Leather Handwoven Crossbody Clutch
Need something for a special occasion? This good-looking bag exudes classic Italian style, at a very reasonable price. It can be carried in hand or worn on the shoulder. Also available in black and dark brown.
You’ll keep and wear this one for YEARS.
And of course, this Aoyama bag from Lo & Sons, which I’ve been using almost daily. Lightweight, with excellent interior organization, and it can convert from a crossbody, to a shoulder bag, to a hand carry style. I love mine and will definitely pack it for my next trip!
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Hi Susan—Do you have any suggestions for winter palette handbags to use in summer? I’m petite so more medium size and I wear a lot of white, navy and black. I stick with white gold or silver jewelry. Your choices are great but most of them are in the warmer tones. I’m stumped.
Hi Rose, the white and silver MZ Wallace shown is a good one for both Winter and Summer palettes. Silver is always good. This pearl metallic is nice too: https://bit.ly/3QOpfp9 (Yes, there’s some gold hardware, but it’s minimal.) You can even do black if it’s an open weave
I have given those LandsEnd totes as mother-daughter gifts. Added names/monograms. They last forever; the kids don’t outgrow them; you don’t have to guess at clothing sizes; and you can get them with top zippers. Great for boaters, too. Could be father-son gifts, too.
All of these bags, you show today, are nice.
Hi Susan,
I just purchased the Madewell straw crossbody. Thank you for featuring these bags. Your posts are consistently informative and helpful.
Regarding a previous post, you featured a BR sweater in Vanilla Custard. I scooped up the sweater as well as a short sleeve shirt and linen long sleeve shirt in the same color. I’ve been hoping to find this shade of yellow for years. So, again – thank you!
I find as I get “wiser” in years neck pain is becoming a more consistent companion. I’m cutting WAY back on wallet size and things I carry. I have some Brahmin bags that I still love, but maybe they’re not loving me as much anymore ? Trying to go as light as possible. That’s the driving force in my choice anymore. Enjoy your day
I am contemplating that Lo & Sons Aoyama. Have you found that the ivory color holds up in travel? I read every review on the site but durability wasn’t addressed. Thank you!!
I haven’t yet traveled with it, but have been using it quite often the past few weeks, and have found it doesn’t seem to get scuffed or show dirt easily. And any smudges seem to brush right off.
Bag and tote wise I am fine. More than enough options in my closet.
Greetje