School may not yet be out for summer (and, yes, that is a reference to the Alice Cooper anthem) but the unofficial kickoff to the season of BBQs, beach, and breaks is here. On Memorial Day we remember and honor those who gave their lives while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, but it’s also time to make that mental and physical switch to summer fashion.
Image courtesy: @majamalnar
With the arrival of this season comes an exciting array of handbags. From chic hand-carry accessories, summer-ready raffia totes, and classic leather offerings, these bags exude laid-back elegance and effortless vibes. Whether you’re embarking on cosmopolitan adventures or enjoying a day at the beach, these versatile companions are ready to elevate your style and accompany you on every summer escapade.
So get ready to embrace the summer season and celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in true fashionista style.
Hermès – Balusoie Bag
Elevate your summer style with the Balusoie Bag from Hermès, a refreshing addition to its summer 2024 collection. Reminiscent of the beloved Bride-a-Brac Pouch, this bag offers a luxurious twist, crafted from supple silk for a relaxed, unstructured feel.
Read also: What is Your Opinion of the Hermès Bride-a-Brac Pouch As A Purse Alternative?
Image courtesy: @majamalnar
Assembled with Hermès’ iconic printed silk and featuring a Hunter cowhide handle, the Balusoie bag boasts a zip top closure with the brand’s iconic pull tab, accented by palladium-plated hardware. Designed for summer adventures, it comes in several printed designs like the ‘La Promenade du Matin Bandana’, ‘Equateur’, and ‘Wild’, available in vibrant or understated hues.
Image courtesy: Hermès
Image courtesy: Hermès
Its lightweight, unlined silk construction makes it ideal for handheld carry. Measuring 12.5 x 9.4 x 4.7 inches, it offers ample space for essentials, seamlessly transitioning from daytime strolls to alfresco dining.
Priced at $2,675, the Balusoie bag combines elegance and practicality for any summertime occasion.
Image courtesy @threadstyling
Chanel – 31 Shopping Bag
The sophisticated Chanel 31 debuted in Fall 2018 but recently has undergone a seasonally appropriate makeover for the 24S collection. Inspired by vintage designs from Chanel’s archives, much like the coveted Chanel Kelly, the 31 Shopping bag exudes timeless appeal with a hint of nostalgic charm.
Read also: Chanel Spring-Summer (24S) Bags Have Arrived
Image courtesy: Chanel
Fashioned from shiny lambskin and adorned with quilted detailing, this open-top tote is available in Light Purple and Light Green complemented with gold-tone hardware. Measuring 11.7 x 11.3 x 3.5 inches, the 31 Shopping Bag features a classic chain shoulder for hands-free carry. Secured with the iconic CC turn-lock fastening, the bag has one internal zip pocket for organization.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Image courtesy: Chanel
The 31 Shopping Bag currently retails for $5,900. For those who prefer to downsize, there’s also a cute mini version available in the same shades.
Loewe – Puzzle Fold in Raffia
Loewe introduces the Puzzle Fold in raffia, a summer-ready update to its highly sought-after Puzzle Fold Tote.
Read also: 3 Most Coveted Loewe Bags
Retaining the iconic geometric lines and architectural panels of the original Puzzle bag, this raffia rendition offers a practical grab-and-go tote for the season. Its unique folding capability makes it an ideal travel companion, even in the lightweight raffia construction.
Featuring calfskin handles and adorned with a gold-tone metal Loewe logo, the Puzzle Fold tote boasts a soft form and is designed for shoulder or hand carry. From beach vacations to city breaks, it is functional, seasonally appropriate, and versatile.
Available in medium and extra-large sizes, the medium measures 12.4 x 10 x 5.7 inches and retails for $1,990 in natural raffia. For those seeking a bolder color option, bold geometric designs are offered in two colorways for $2,100.
Louis Vuitton – Vanity PM
Introducing Louis Vuitton’s latest city companion for the season – the Vanity PM bag by Nicolas Ghesquière.
Image courtesy: Louis Vuitton
Crafted in lightweight puffy lambskin, the Vanity PM exudes sophistication and luxury and will accessorize any summer ensemble. Its petite size, measuring 7.5 x 5.1 x 4.3 inches, adds to its charm and versatility. Whether carried by hand, on the shoulder, or crossbody, the removable braided leather chain strap offers multiple styling options.
Image courtesy: Louis Vuitton
Image courtesy: Louis Vuitton
Finished with a zip closure, signature LV padlock, and leather key clochette, the Vanity PM comes in Beige and classic Black, retailing for $3,450.
Image courtesy: Louis Vuitton
Saint Laurent – Le 5 à 7
Saint Laurent fully embraces the seasonal charm of raffia, reimagining several classic models in lightweight woven constructions, including the Le 5 à 7.
Read also: 7 Sizzling Bags for Your Beach Vacation
The Le 5 à 7 stands out with its laid-back hobo design, featuring an all-over crochet motif and a comfortable longline shoulder strap, allowing it to be worn crossbody or on the shoulder. This unlined bag is meticulously crafted from intricately woven raffia and is accented with a tan smooth leather fastening, complete with the iconic bronze-toned YSL initials hook closure.
Read also: 6 of the Hottest Hobo Bags
Boasting generous dimensions of 14.6 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches, this roomy hobo bag offers ample space, making it ideal for various summer outings. It features one main compartment, so adding a couple of pouches could help keep your essentials organized.
Priced at $1,890, Saint Laurent’s Le 5 à 7 in Raffia Crochet and Smooth Leather is a stylish and practical choice for the season.
Polène – Cyme
Polène has emerged as a favorite among fashionistas, offering high-quality bags at an accessible price point.
At the heart of Polène’s offerings is the Cyme tote. Free from bold branding and hardware, this sculptural piece focuses on clean lines and refined form, accentuated by its graceful waves and folds.
Image courtesy: @a_k_s_e_n
What truly sets the Cyme apart is its versatility. It can be worn in two distinctive styles: “Basket-style” with open sides and external straps, or “As a flower-like closed bag” with tucked-in sides and internal crossed straps. Transitioning seamlessly from shoulder to hand-held, its duo of shoulder straps ensures comfort and practicality. Additionally, the discreet magnetic closure adds a touch of security to its otherwise open-top design.
Image courtesy: @alyonatata
Available in a single size measuring 12.5 x 14.9 x 6.6 inches, the Cyme comes in Camel, Taupe, Cognac, and Black, crafted from textured calf leather and retailing for $520. For a summer-appropriate option, consider the leather and canvas variant, available in Beige, Cognac, and Black, priced at $460.
Image courtesy: @chice
Which of these bag picks is on your summer wishlist? Let us know.
Updated: May 24th, 2024
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