After rounding up the most fun printed co-ords to cop, looking at the most chic vacation-style sandals of the season and even touching base on quirky timepieces to own for summer, we’re finally turning our attention to bags. The trendiest summer bags, to be specific.
From nostalgic beaded styles from our old-school disco days to graphic comic-book style printed bags, there’s a bag for everyone to have fun with this season.
Check out this season’s latest bag trends and our 10 most chic and stylish picks from each.
ALSO READ: THE CUTEST BAGS AND ACCESSORIES TO OWN FROM KATE SPADE NEW YORK RIGHT NOW
It was not long after British brand Shrimps introduced its pearl-adorned Antonia bag in 2016 that the jewelled accessory quickly became the latest cult bag on Instagram. The Venezia, another beaded style by the brand, is a more feminine alternative to its hot-selling predecessor, with bead-embellished floral motifs across the front and back panels. Oozing a girlish ‘90s vibe, this lime green boxy-shaped bag is a must-have for completing any summer look.
Shrimps Venezia bag, $490; from Matches Fashion
This hand-beaded bag is packed with a whimsical vibe that brings us back to our childhood days. Featuring colourful beaded flowers that bring to mind perler beads, this crafty receptacle has a grown-up twist and charm to it.
Susan Alexandra Scorpio bag, $354.24, from susanalexandra.com
Encrusted with statement gemstones and embroidered with colourful beads, this folk-themed shoulder bag is an eye-catching statement piece that will define any outfit. Topped with floral patterns, this charmer will liven up your ensemble whether you’re headed to a party or to the beach.
Isla embroidered bag, $1,067; from Farfetch
Prada’s spring summer 2018 collection featured comic book-style graphics from female artists, including the multicoloured combined prints on this black bag created by Trina Robbins and Brigid Elva. Boasting of the house’s classic bowling bag shape with a detachable shoulder strap and powder-blue hot-stamped logo appliqué, this retro-esque style will add a whimsical flourish to your look.
Prada comic print bag, $2,785; from Matches Fashion
Designed from glossy patent leather with a tongue-in-cheek vintage print on the flap, this vibrant clutch is exactly what the eclectic doctor ordered. This clutch acts as a conversation starter, offering a wink at Chanel’s iconic No.5 perfume with the slogan “Just a drop of No.5” printed in a comic book-style illustration.
Chanel Vintage clutch, $5,295; from Farfetch
Embroidered with colourful micro beads to make up a vintage-style image of a lady applying red lipstick (check those on-trend heart frame sunnies too!), this shoulder city bag is fun, zesty and sophisticated.
Marco De Vincenzo Starry bag, $2,250; from Farfetch
The perennial straw-woven bag trend just won’t quit, and we personally can’t get enough of it. Taking the design of an atypical wicker bag up a notch with an unexpected silhouette, this number features a unique “upside-down hat” design with wooden handles. We love the choice of the colour too; there are plenty or raw beige-hued straw bags out there, but it’s rare to see one in black.
Eugenia Kim Belle straw bag, $594.85; from eugeniakim.com
Cult Gaia is making waves in the ‘It’-bag scene once again with this oversized round tote. Featuring a classic Rattan circular handle and an open weave design, this stylish tote is a statement piece that you’ll reach for all summer long.
Cult Gaia Stella bag, $553; from Farfetch
Made from raffia, Gucci’s sizable ‘Linea Cestino’ tote has the label’s signature tricolor stripes and a frayed, open top for a natural raw finish. Roomy and stylish, this will help you lug all your vacation essentials with ease.
Gucci Linea Cestino tote, $1,492.89; from Net-a-porter
One look at this bag, and you’ll know why we just had to include it in our round-up. Fresh out of Loewe’s second collaborative collection with legendary Ibiza boutique Paula’s, this mini elephant-shaped bag is crafted with Paula’s playful prints: iconic mermaids surrounded by a winding marine flora, in a refreshing Aqua hue. Evocative of Ibiza’s vibrant creative scene and an incredibly tropical seaside vacation feel, this must-have has practically already won our hearts.
Prixe unavailable, available at Casa Loewe Paragon.