7 Major Bag Trends That Will Define Summer 2026

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Celine bag
(Image credit: Celine)

For summer 2026, I'm taking a close look at the biggest trends that are emerging for the season. Some of the larger themes of the season are centered on lighthearted, fun-infused fashion and unexpected details that are ushering in personality-driven style. Unsurprisingly, these ideas also trickled down to the handbag realm.

An array of bag trends is unfolding for the upcoming summer months. Vibrant colors in shades of cherry red and Kelly green are bringing a preppy vibe to the season. Playful bags are making a big comeback, finished in everything from beads to tassels. Standout silhouettes, including pouches, are emerging as the key shape to invest in. Ahead, get a closer look at the biggest handbag trends to know for summer 2026, and shop the edit.

The Vibrant Tote Bag

We're seeing bold colors return, especially for beach totes.

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The Streamlined Shopper Bag

Low-key, discreet, and a workhorse piece.

The Embellished Evening Bag

Swap out your clutch for a fun pailette bag.

The Woven Bucket Bag

Bucket bags are finished in woven mesh for summer.

The Pouch Bag

Whether it's finished in nylon or leather, it's all about the pouch bag.

The Tassel Bag

Last summer, tassel jewelry was everywhere. Now, we're seeing the detail on bags.

The Beaded Bag

We're seeing beaded bags everywhere.

Kristen Nichols
Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including The New York Times, Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.