EVEN if you’re not overhauling your look completely, there’s something so refreshing about retiring your favourite winter bag (either to the back of your wardrobe or to a charity shop) and transitioning to a box-fresh model.
The SS21 catwalks gave us a mouth-watering selection of arm candy, but what if designer prices are beyond your budget?
Fear not, the high street is here to help, with a trove of trendy bags that will satisfy your cravings…
SHOULDER BAGS
As every fashionista knows, the noughties are back in a big way right now, and that includes accessories. The days of the sporty cross-body bag are numbered – now it’s time to make like Carrie Bradshaw with a brightly coloured, neat little shoulder bag nestled under your arm.
:: River Island Purple Tie Dye Ruffle Long Sleeve Dress, £48; Purple Nylon RI Cross Body Bag and Pochette, £35
:: Azurina Sorrento Orange Leather Pochette Bag, £50 (jumper, stylist’s own)
:: Freemans Suede Effect Shoulder Bag, £26.99 (was £35)
WOVEN BAGS
Not to be confused with straw beach bags, this spring’s woven bags are the leather – or faux – variety. Inspired by Bottega Veneta’s blockbuster Cassette, these neutral-hued handbags are compact and cool but big enough to fit all your essentials. Need something larger? Try a woven tote.
:: Tu at Sainsburys Light Pink Faux Leather Weave Bag, £16
:: Matalan Nude Weave Front Cross-Body Bag, £10
:: Dune London Daitlynn Tan Large Woven Shopper, £95; Hopes Multi Lattice Ballet Pumps, £85 (clothing, stylist’s own)
QUILTED BAGS
Quilted bags never really go out of style but they’re having a real moment this spring. From classic chain strap shoulder bags to mini backpacks, this season’s padded purses are small but perfectly formed.
:: Kaleidoscope Quilted Box Bag, £35
:: Dune Dorchester Blue Small Quilted Shoulder Bag, £65
:: Aldo Agylle Backpack, £55 (available mid May)
SLOUCHY BAGS
The accessories equivalent of loungewear, is it any wonder super-soft bags have become hugely popular during the pandemic? These slouchy pouches and shoulder bags are a great day-to-night option.
:: Deichmann Black Slouchy Clutch Bag, £14.99
:: Next Chunky Chain Slouchy Clutch Bag, £28