Handbags are the essential, around-the-clock accessory for many. They’re the perfect place to stash cash, lip gloss, and all of the other everything-but-the-kitchen-sink items that so many of us couldn’t live without. Quite possibly the most indispensable accessory, it’s surely in the running for being the most functional—so shouldn’t it also look great? With a resounding “yes!” we’ll be sharing with you some of our top picks from the runways for the SS 2016 season. This year’s productions certainly had no shortage of eye-catching totes. From casual to eccentric to chic, we hope the variety that this collection of handbags boasts will inspire a summer chock full of stylish accessories.
The Fanny Pack
Yes, my friends, you read that correctly. The fanny pack is back in style, but this time around it’s much more fashionable than that acid-washed denim atrocity that Mom used to make you wear. Now they’re about more than just portability and convenience during travel or other times when you might need your hands and shoulders free, they’re also about aesthetics. With designers like Sandy Liang and Kenzo jumping on the fanny pack bandwagon, you can bet your behind that these bags are better looking than ever.
The Whimsical
The reporters over at Fashionisers are all over this whimsical, wild, and sometimes wacky handbag happening. From animals, to objects, to faces, handbags from designers like Kate Spade and Betsey Johnson are now resembling some of your favorite places, things, and maybe even people. Purses in the shape of cake slices, peanuts, traffic cones, buckets of roses, and what looks to be a member of the Powerpuff Girls have flooded the runways and may soon be coming to a department store near you.
The Backpack
This isn’t your second grade niece’s bag we’re talking about. The backpack purse is all grown up, and Lyst’s forecasts and collections have the sophisticated accessory you’ve been looking for. With evolved colours, like ecru, olive, and black, the backpacks spotted on the runways are perfect for beach jaunts, errand running, and all sorts of other everyday outings that are fit for an adult. Pair one of these with shorts, jeans, dresses, and even swimwear for a fashion-forward finishing touch to your summer ensembles.
The Clutch
Get a grip on the clutch handbag for summer because, according to Independent’s style experts, this little purse is back in a big way. Perhaps one of the most classic accessories on this list, the tiny handheld tote that’s usually strapless holds a special place in many a woman’s closet thanks to its versatility and ability to dress up a plain outfit in a snap. These come in a range of styles, shapes, sizes, and prices, which is great for the modern-day woman. The powder-blue Valentino bag that we’ve chosen with its gold coral-shaped accent is a chic choice that will pair well with much of your evening attire this summer.
The accessory to have this season is definitely a trusty tote. And as you can see from this post, it’s perfectly acceptable to have some fun with your handbag choices this summer. Whether it’s practicality you desire, like a posh backpack purse, or something a little more whimsical, like a clutch in the shape of a cupcake, this season is all about the unexpected.