Let’s take a look at some stylish Spring bags 👜
For most of my life, I’ve had a “thing” for handbags/purses. And I’ve collected quite a few of them over the years. I think a distinctive and good-looking bag can add so much to an outfit, and will sometimes even style a look around a particular bag.
Until the last few months that is. Since last March, when we stopped going anywhere except the grocery store and occasional doctor/dentist appointment, my primary consideration has been hands-free functionality. But the anticipation of easing back into the world has me thinking about re-integrating stylish bags back into my wardrobe formula.
Spring handbags to complete your look
When shopping for a leather bag, pay attention to details like hardware, stitching and quality of the leather, which will make the difference between a cheap-looking bag and and an elegant one. The more structure and organizational features a bag has, the heavier it will tend to be. Not every bag has to be an investment, but think about where and how you’ll use it. A handbag that isn’t functional will just collect dust in your closet.
Leather and faux leather bags
I purchased this bag last year, and only recently put it into rotation. Mine’s the cream color (no longer available) and you can see in action HERE. I LOVE the shape! It’s a perfect size for day-to-evening use. It’s lightweight and has an optional cross-body strap. There’s a secure magnetic closure, with 3 closure points across the top of the bag. I find a tan color like this one quite versatile, but there are several other color options.
DeMellier London has a permanent charity initiative, A Bag, A Life which funds vaccines and medical treatments for children in need.
Here’s another simple but good-looking tote style bag with a crossbody strap. This one’s large enough to carry a tablet or small laptop, plus anything else you’d need during the day. It’s included in Madewell’s current promotion, and is 20% off with code SPRINGITON.
I love the look of woven leather, but it can be spendy. This crossbody with a zippered compartment and two exterior compartments is budget-friendly, and a stylish option for your essentials. It’s also available in Camel (tan) HERE.
The raffia detail on this classic saddle bag feels perfect for a casual Spring outfit. J.Crew is currently offering 25% off 2 items, 30% off 3, and 40% off 4 or more styles.
Faux and vegan leathers have really come a LONG way in recent years, and you can find lots of stylish options now. I love the architectural shape of this medium-sized shoulder bag. The shoulder strap is adjustable, and there are multiple interior pockets to help you stay organized. And it’s under $100!
And I love the raffia ring handle detail on this faux leather crossbody bag. Also a budget-friendly option!
Raffia, bamboo, and rattan bags
A rattan bag can be a fun way to add a touch of Spring without breaking the bank. I’ve had this little bag for several seasons, and always get compliments on it.
Some bags are just for “going out” and this is one of those. I bought the “designer” version (Cult Gaia) several years ago and it’s held up brilliantly. Yes, you can find them for a fraction of the price elsewhere, but I can’t vouch for the quality.
This woven rattan crossbody (cotton lined) has a very vintage vibe.
This bag is handmade in Bali, and your purchase supports the individual artisan directly. The bag is lined with a unique batik print fabric.
What style of handbag do you use most often?
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Pretty choices! My MIL always carries a tote. She says it’s because as she’s gotten older, she doesn’t like fumbling through compartments (arthritis) and she can sling it over her shoulder. She has a beautiful Louis Vuitton that looks effortless and chic. I am petite like her but have always been drawn to smaller more structured bags, but I rcently purchased a white Coach tote and am loving the ease of it. BTW she is a wonderful MIL…she gets all the daughters and daughters in law a pricey purse for Christmas and birthdays!!! We always make a group pic to show off-lol!!! I hope you get to use your pretty bag soon, Susan!!!
Does she have any unmarried sons? Haha!
I bought the knock off version of that Cult Gaia bag a few years ago and it’s held up remarkably well. I used it quite often in the “before times” for summer evenings out and inevitably someone comments on its unique style.
I have had my eye on the DeMellier for some time. I have the Venice in black. Does anybody know how to correctly pronounce their name? They are a socially conscious company with excellent customer service.
Do you have the DeMellier “mini” or “midi” size bag? Yours looks smaller than the midi dimensions listed. Thank you for the updated handbag ideas!
Hi Laura, mine’s the Midi. It’s a small-ish bag but deep enough to hold a wallet, phone, keys, hand sanitizer 😉 , small lotion, small cosmetic pouch, folded nylon shopping bag with room to spare.
I’ve looked at that bag a few times online. Is the interior black? Sometimes hard to locate things with black interior. Also wind with the shape if hard to get items out? Thank you.
Hi Linda, yes the interior is black, but because the bag is not particularly deep, I don’t have trouble finding things. And no, the shape isn’t hard to get into and pull things out.
That term “vegan leather” irritates me. It’s plastic. Why dress is up with deceptive language? Okay, rant over. LOL
And, I’m not sure what they’re trying to accomplish? It’s not a natural fibre or fabric, it doesn’t decompose, it’s made out of petroleum products. Why on earth do people feel “vegan” leather is better?
I’m assuming some people prefer not to use or wear animal products.
LOL! You gave me a good laugh with this — the term “vegan leather” makes me roll my eyes so hard I’m in danger of giving myself concussion! If you don’t want to buy/use leather, that’s fine! But call it non-leather & stop annoying me with “cute” terminology! And thus endeth MY rant as well 🙂
I like a camera bag style—especially at this time. I have several—one in leather, a Brighton utility bag in that style, and most recently, a nylon Ganni bag from Nordstrom’s in leopard, which is fun. I like them for the size and the light weight. Just right for what I have to carry at this time. I’m favoring the leopard one right now!
You’ve hit one of my passions, albeit one I do NOT indulge (I wish I could say the same of my passion for boots, shoes & leather jackets!). I use a black fringed boho bag I bought almost 40 years ago (I’ve had it repaired & redyed at least twice now), & stopped buying purses years ago when I was apparent I never used them. I love purses — there’s something so artistic & creative about the shapes, designs & colours — but the whole bag-swapping thing to go with one’s outfit irritates me (I always leave something important behind, for one thing). I don’t see my bag as an accessory to whatever I’m wearing, I guess, but a necessary addendum to my day 🙂 But, wow. That Tasseled Bucket Bag by Madewell is making me think it might be time to retire the old one. And the basket “fishing creel” type bags appeal to my old hippie-self from long ago 🙂 I’m not going to indulge this time, either, but the temptation is strong . . . !
oh you rotter…. now you made me fall in love with the Demellier bag. I love the pale sage colour. Oh for heaven’s sake. I have already spent so much money at my usual shop (kpa) and at the bra shop. But I feel, I am falling.
Greetje
Rats…. I have fallen. I ordered it. Aiiiiii
😉
Can I blame you?
Of course you may, LOL!
I really like the Venice style in the forest color.
Latest bag is fairly outdoorsy for me, Tom Bihn Sidekick. A bit smaller than a Lo & Sons Pearl, lots of pockets, room for a mini tablet or book