8 Classic Handbags That Will Instantly Give You That Summer Feeling

Women wearing different summer bags
(Image credit: Who What Wear)

After the winter we had, the arrival of summer has never been so hotly anticipated. All we can say is thank goodness it's finally here. And now it's time for the fun bit—what to wear?! From minidresses to linen, blouses to flip flops, summer trends are trending, but the one wardrobe piece we personally feel makes a huge difference to all your summer looks, is a great handbag.

When it comes to the best summer handbags, they often need a chuck-it-all-in quality. You want to be able to squeeze in a bottle of rosé, suncream and multiple park snacks. There are certain styles that will always be popular in summer for this very reason, such as an oversize basket bag or a practical canvas holdall. Loewe is a designer that really leads the way here, as its logo-patch raffia tote has been out for several years, and is still a highly sought-after, timeless investment.

But it's not just basket bags that should get a look in. Other handbags I have noticed that are popular every single year are fresh white bags, XL totes, cute crochet numbers, stripes and even some bright colour pops if you're looking to stand out. Keep scrolling to see the eight handbags that instantly give you a summer feeling.

1. Classic Basket Bags

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Style Notes: We have Loewe and Celine to thank for the now-iconic basket bag that you'll find in the wardrobe of every fashion insider. Classic raffia bags in a tote or bucket shape with tan or black leather detailing are the most popular, and those with a pared-back finish can be relied on to give any summer outfit a luxury feel.

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2. White Leather Bags

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Style Notes: Whether you go mini or oversize, white leather handbags go with every summer outfit, especially for events, making it more practical than you might think. Black leather might be a classic, but white leather is the summer alternative we can't wait to wear with pretty dresses, light blouses, denim, floaty skirts... You get the picture.

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3. XXL Totes

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Style Notes: With long days in parks or day trips to the beach on the agenda, it's no surprise that practical, oversized tote bags are more popular than ever. If its big enough to hold a laptop, a book, your phone, keys, chargers, snacks, sun cream, water bottle, and looks good while doing it, it ticks every box of requirements.

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4. Colour Pop Bags

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Style Notes: From Bottega Veneta to Zara, Chanel to COS, you can usually find this joyful bag trend everywhere during the summer season. Pair with prints for a maximalist finish or add a pop to neutrals to bring the fun.

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5. Striped Totes

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Style Notes: Add some personality to your picnic or beach outfits with a striped bag in either a rainbow or monochrome colours and wait for the compliments to roll in.

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6. Crochet Bags

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7. Canvas Holdalls

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8. Woven Shoulder Bags

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At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

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Emily Dawes
Senior Shopping Editor

Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily landed at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she has styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.