It's no surprise that some of the top-selling bags on our favorite sites like J.Crew, Nordstrom, and Shopbop are also classic shapes. If you're a minimalist who reaches for the same basics again and again, and your bag rotation happens to follow suit, make sure you own these five specific silhouettes, because there's truly nothing else you need.
First up, there's J.Crew's Geneva, a satin clutch offered in three colorways with a short handle at the top. Whether you style it with low-rise denim, a minidress, or a skirt and tights, there's no denying it's the one accessory that will get you through party season. Tory Burch's Lee Radziwill tote, named after the famous '60s and '70s style icon, is that luxe, structural tote bag that's perfect for work or really whenever you want to elevate your neutrals. Topshop's crossbody flap bag rings in at an incredible price for a wear-anywhere rectangular satchel you throw on to play up a preppy outfit or accent black accessories. Mango's leather shopper is similar in that it's under $100. However, this roomy tote is better for polishing casual off-duty days and feels way more relaxed in form. Finally, a sling bag of any material is ideal for days you're traveling, running errands, or just want to be hands-free. Whether you shop St. Agni's best selling soft crescent bag or a different pouch with a similar vibe, you'll reach for it whenever you're on the go.
Ahead, we've highlighted these five foolproof, perfectly versatile bags in multiple colorways and provided street style inspiration for each one.
SATIN CLUTCH
A clutch can make a midriff-baring shirt and low-rise jeans all the chicer. Allow it to accent the color of your trench coat to bring your color story full circle.
Your festive clutch should pack a punch against the rest of the pieces in your outfit. Start with an all-black foundation offset by a tough gray jacket and finish the look with your cherry-red bag and slingback heels.
It's simple but a foolproof combination nonetheless—for nights out, style your small clutch with a miniskirt, tights, and knee-high boots. The outfit is slightly '60s-inspired and you can add allure with glamorous statement jewelry.
STRUCTURAL TOTE
Wear your neutral-toned leather tote bag with a brown coat, printed sweater, and dark-wash jeans.
Style your brown leather tote with a white tee, wide-leg jeans, flats, and a classic trench coat. These are all wardrobe staples that blend together seamlessly, especially when playing with neutral tones.
A tan structural top-handle bag can easily add structure to a whimsical dress layered for fall and winter months. Add a cable-knit cardigan to evoke cozy vibes and match the color of your flats to your purse.
CROSSBODY FLAP BAG
Wear the bag with a plunging black sweater, wide-leg jeans, and pointed-toe shoes that peek out from the hem.
Wear the bag on your shoulder with a belted blazer over a white pleated minidress or skirt. Complete the look with patent ankle boots.
Try adjusting your structural crossbody bag to its shortest length and carry it as a top handle bag. Style it with a neutral outfit of breezy basics, like a pleated maxi skirt and lightweight top. The bag will accent your accessories and ground out your look.
OVERSIZE LEATHER SHOPPER
Sleek leather totes can instantly liven up a lounge set. Pile on your coziest cashmere co-ords with a contrasting beanie and slippers, and allow your carryall to elevate the outfit.
A leather tote bag is the easy answer to your all-black co-ord sets. It will streamline your outfit and play up the palette, which you can offset with one statement piece, such as a colorful shoe or a gleaming white pearl choker.
We love how an oversize black leather tote adds character to a lighter monochrome outfit. Work an oversize boyfriend shirt with tan slacks and luxe taupe slippers and add your black leather bag as the final touch.
Wear your favorite leather jacket with baggy denim and a square-toe boot to add structure. A headband, dark sunglasses, and your go-to black tote are the finishing touches to this easy, on-the-go outfit.
Even though a black leather tote bag is ultra-sophisticated and a no-brainer for work days, it fares surprisingly well with your off-duty sport essentials. Wear it with a long wool coat, sweats, Adidas Samba sneakers, and a baseball cap on the weekend.
NEUTRAL SLING BAG
A belt bag looks super luxe swung over the shoulder when your foundation is chic and polished. Start with a bright-colored turtleneck tucked into high-waisted, belted trousers. Then add your go-to pair of sneakers and a long tan trench coat.
Belt bags are ideal for traveling, especially when you want to be hands-free to stop for pictures. Bring yours on vacation for wearing with casual daywear, such as linen pants and breezy tops.
Wear a black belt bag across your chest and twist your pouch to the back if you don't want to overcomplicate your look at the front. A striped foundational turtleneck underneath a utility jumpsuit looks effortless with this bag.
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