Chic, Classy and Perfect for Summer—These Handbag Colours Will Elevate Every Outfit You Wear

The audio of Charli XCX sharing what's inside her bag may be going viral on TikTok, but right now my focus is on finding the bag itself. I've already got the basics covered—I'm a big believer in investing in the kind of versatile bag that transcends seasons and trends—but if the British summer weather is going to continue to be this gloomy, then I need something to cheer me up. And what better to brighten up a grey summer day than a colourful handbag?

There are some classic, anti-trend colours that come back year after year, namely brown, white and black. These are arguably the colours that are worth investing in, as you can rest assured that you'll get plenty of use out of them for years to come. But recently, I've noticed more and more tastemakers sporting more playful hues, including greens, reds and oranges. The best thing about these colours is the variety of shades they encompass, meaning you're sure to find a tone that matches your personal style—and your summer plans.

More of a minimalist? Lean into warmer, earthy tones like khaki or olive greens, deep burgundy and burned orange hues. Looking for your handbag to add a jolt of bright, dopamine-inducing colour? Opt for more vibrant hues like lime green, cherry red and neon orange. Whatever you're hue, and whatever your budget—the high street and designer brands are delivering equally strong contenders this year—one of the bag colours is sure to be the ideal match.

SUMMER HANDBAG COLOUR TRENDS:

1. Green

Style Notes: Ever since Bottega Veneta released their iconic woven green leather bag, this colour has earned its place as an A list-approved fashion colour. This season, the options have broadened, encompassing shades ranging from neon hues to earthy khaki tones.

Shop the Look:

BOTTEGA VENETA

Jodie Mini Knotted Intrecciato Leather Tote

£2150

The iconic green designer bag.

& Other Stories

Mini Leather Shoulder Bag

£59

She's unbelievably cute—and would pop so well against summer whites.

Anthropologie

Steffi Beaded Sequin Shoulder Bag

£88

Such a fun party bag.

MARNI

Tropicalia Micro Leather and Embroidered Faux Raffia Tote

£575

This is a really fun summer style.

LOEWE

+ Paula's Ibiza Anagram Medium Appliquéd Leather-Trimmed Perforated Raffia Tote

£725

Loewe's woven totes are a seriously chic summer investment, and I personally love this khaki version.

2. White

Style Notes: Is there anything more elegant than a white handbag? As Brittany proves, a white leather style adds a seriously refined touch to evening wear, but in the summer months especially, it can feel super fresh and stylish for daytime wear, too.

Shop the Look:

Whistles

Bibi Shoulder Bag

£149

I love the neat, minimalist shape of this style.

GANNI

Egret Small Ganni Bou Bag

£375

A gorgeously playful shape.

Reformation

Mini Rosetta Shoulder Bag

£248

A versatile shape that can work for so many occasions.

PROENZA SCHOULER

Flip Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag

£1170

I'm obsessed with this ultra-modern, pillowy silhouette.

DeMellier

The Tokyo Tote in Off-White Small Grain

£445

This would be such an elegant work bag.

3. Brown

Style Notes: Whether you go for deep chocolate tones or lighter tan shades, brown is a classic handbag colour. This season, woven textures are the top trend to embrace, but there's also a world of fabrics, textures and silhouettes to explore.

Shop the Look:

Arket

Leather Crossbody Bag

£179

The kind of easy, everyday bag you'll never regret owning.

Melie Bianco

The Brigitte Woven Faux-Leather Shoulder Bag by Melie Bianco: Oversized Edition

£135

A brilliantly affordable alternative to the Bottega Veneta styles.

DRAGON DIFFUSION

Santa Rosa Woven Leather Shoulder Bag

£297

So many influencers own this exact bag.

DeMellier

The Tokyo in Tan Smooth

£345

How sleek.

Reformation

Rosetta Sling Crossbody Bag

£448

I think suede is a year-round fabric.

4. Red

Style Notes: Pops of red keep appearing on my feed, and if you're a bit intimidated on how to find a way to integrate the colour into your daily wardrobe, a bag is a great place to start. And while it may be trending now, a red handbag will always be in style.

Shop the Look:

Reformation

Rafaella Shoulder Bag

£448

I love the 90s vibe of this bag.

MANGO

Shoulder Bag With Strap

£26

Sleek, understated, perfect.

STAUD

Tommy Faux Leather-Trimmed Embellished Satin Shoulder Bag

£335

How great would this look at your next summer party?

THE ROW

Laurie Suede and Leather Shoulder Bag

£2500

This deep burgundy hue is so elevated.

Gucci

Gucci Jackie 1961 Small Shoulder Bag

£2730

A gorgeous investment piece.

5. Orange

Style Notes: On holiday or at home, orange bags are a great way to brighten up your summer wardrobe. The colour pops so well against staple summer clothing colours, especially crisp white pieces, but will also add a fun summer touch to your favourite black styles, too.

Shop the Look:

ZARA

Faux Patent Shoulder Bag

£20£13

This is a dream easy summer look.

Loewe

Mini Hammock Hobo Bag in Classic Calfskin

£1250

The new Loewe silhouette to know.

Aspinal of London

Ella Crossbody Bag

£450

The pebbled texture is so elevated.

M&S Collection

Quilted Chain Strap Cross Body Shoulder Bag

£40

Why splurge on the Chanel style when this affordable alternative exists?

BOTTEGA VENETA

Kalimero Città Gathered Intrecciato Leather Shoulder Bag

£3500

Such a fun summer bag.

6. Black

Style Notes: Yes, really. Black may not be the most surprising colour, but this summer influencers are really backing it for summer. The good news is, you'll probably find yourself relying on it for the rest of the year, too.

Shop the Look:

& Other Stories

Braided Shoulder Bag

£165

This looks like a designer find.

TOTEME

T-Lock Leather Clutch

£820

Yes, please.

COS

Scallop Crossbody - Leather

£95

Perfect for minimalists who like a directional accessory.

SAINT LAURENT

Mini Le 5 à 7 in Smooth Leather

£1295

A classic investment piece.

THE ROW

Margaux Buckled Leather Clutch

£5420

The new must-have designer clutch.