Products are independently chosen by our editors, and purchases via our site links may earn us a commission. Please note that the bags showcased in the top picture of this article are for illustrative purposes only and are not available for sale. Prices listed are valid at the time of publishing and subject to change without advance notice.
Blue is a transitional colour - it can symbolise so many things, but often it’s connected with sadness and sappy music. As we (finally) move towards spring, I’m far from singing the blues so it’s time to flip the switch and only be thinking of blue in terms of skies and the feeling of tranquillity you get when staring at the endless horizon of a deeply blue sea.
I don’t know about you but in spite of homegrown weather that has left a lot to be desired, I’ve been on holiday in my head for weeks now and with that kind of daydreaming naturally comes some internal window shopping. So that’s what I’m looking for when I start to do some more serious window shopping for the perfect blue handbag. Because, let’s face it, nothing brings out the best in a summer dress like a cerulean handbag that holds nothing but some sunscreen and lip balm because that’s all you’re going to need.
Nothing exudes this kind of summer dress, sandals and no unnecessary items feel than the Smythson Envelope Purse in Panama in Nile Blue. This bag has got you covered with admirably organised card holders embedded in the bag for up to six cards, keeping everything placed just where you want it and on the ready to pay for the perfect beachside cocktail. With a removable crossbody strap in cross grain calf leather, this is my handbag of choice for daytime wear in the South of France. I can see this pairing equally well with white capris or a maxi dress as I dine on oysters and a glass of Whispering Angel.
While I’m all for relaxing holidays, there’s nothing like hitting a club and while away from home there is literally no other bag I would want to tear up the tiles with than the Alexander McQueen Peak Small Bag in Lapis Blue. Even the colour of the bag, let alone the detail of the iconic McQueen design with silver-tone hardware, screams cocktails at midnight and DJs pumping out house music well into the wee hours. This bag’s careful craftsmanship and bold blue colour will compliment the tiniest of dresses and might even convince me to get into a pair of stilettos for the sake of fashion, if only to highlight how amazing I’d feel carrying this piece.
My imaginary holiday is really taking shape. I’ve covered my minimalist needs and my evening glam, but there’s always room for a handbag that is going to give me a little more versatility. Keeping the possibilities of blue at the forefront, my mind wanders to how refreshing the colour is and that it can still make a statement without being so in-your-face bold.
I’ve been known to opt for a more subtle pastel outfit or even a neutral look and this is where blue can really come into its own, providing a sophisticated way to make a statement. One of the best examples of this is the Logo Grainy Alter Mat Crossbody Bag by Stella McCartney. With ample storage room and McCartney’s signature vegan leather, the muted sky blue of this handbag compliments my tamer daywear and provides me with the style and sensibility that Stella is known for. With the perforated McCartney logo proudly stamped on the side, it almost looks like the bag is breathing, even when it’s bursting from the seams with beach reading material, sunscreen and a hat to keep me safe from the sun's harsh rays.
Blue handbags effortlessly evoke the carefree and relaxed vibes of coastal living. Reminiscent of clear blue skies, sparkling ocean waves and sandy beaches, carrying a blue handbag instantly transports you to a seaside getaway. However, it would be wrong for me to think about blue and completely ignore one of the materials associated with blue that has stood the test of time - yes, denim - and we aren’t talking about farm wear or what you throw on to hang out the laundry anymore. If you want an example of a seriously stylish and unique handbag that is crafted from the very highest quality denim, the Valentino Garavani Rockstud Spike denim crossbody bag is a swanky little number that is made for gratuitous holiday spam pics. Metal pyramid studs and a slim chain lend a lick of punk inspiration to the Rockstud Spike cross-body bag - perfectly embodying the fashion house's masterful blend of Italian elegance and contemporary detailing, this bag was made for the boardwalk as much as it was for the catwalk.
Whether you’re joining me in my daydreams of the South of France, or you’ve already got your flights booked for your next summer break, blue offers an exciting alternative to the bold and vibrant colours that summer is often associated with. Blue handbags seamlessly complement some of the hottest fashion trends of the summer season, from nautical-inspired stripes to bohemian floral prints, blue handbags effortlessly bring a sophisticated addition to all your summer fashion staples. So here’s wishing you a very blue bon voyage!
A smaller version of the traditional MK Ruthie satchel, this bag features an effortlessly chic design that is structured and relies on gold-tone hardware to give it a little pizazz. This bag is definitely one that can be used for everyday lunching with the ladies or adding to a great casual night out look, it’s got plenty of space for essentials and at £270, the price point means you can buy this little number in navy blue and have plenty of spending money left over for an evening out.
This compact handbag in Nile Blue is my purse of choice for daytime holiday wear. It’s got great little compartments built in for your credit cards and, I don’t know about you, but I tend to be a little forgetful when I’m away so the organisation that this little bag provides is a real game changer. Subtly stylish, this is a crossbody bag crafted in smooth calf leather and fully lined. I think this is a great price point for a bag that can be taken on holiday but also used as a daily go-to at home.
Aspinal of London is known for its traditional designs and this great little tote is a fantastic addition to the collection. In Caspian Blue Pebble, this handbag is simple and understated, a versatile everyday companion that will hold more than everyday essentials and is made from the finest full grain leather. Sweetly accented with Aspinal’s signature A and Bee charms, this must-have leather tote-bag can be carried by the soft top handles or worn cross-body using the detachable soft leather strap, which can be personalised with initials or a name.
Another fantastic entry in denim from Jacquemus, Le Chiquito Denim is a functional bag with high design features and can easily be used during the day or to compliment a night out. I love the thick buttoned rolled top handle, which is also a detachable adjustable shoulder strap for extra choice in how you wear the piece. A good size, structured bag, Le Chiquito Denim is crafted from 100% cotton and 100% leather, as well as a really good price point from this pivotal design house.
Definitely a top contender for my personal blue bag of the year award, the Logo Crossbody Bag from Stella McCartney in muted sky blue has all the features you’d expect from this designer including being crafted from Alter Mat, the house's vegan leather alternative. While remaining compact, this bag has ample storage room and, for me, it can be used as a day bag but also be paired well with jeans or a pair of linen trousers for an evening out.
This bag has all the hallmarks we’d expect from Mulberry and a classic design in Poplin Blue High Gloss Leather. The ultimate in day-to-night dressing, the Small Lana Top Handle is characterised by its sleek silhouette and structured upright handle. This elegant style showcases Mulberry’s new statement hardware, the Foundry Lock – a contemporary, Daliesque twist on the iconic Postman's Lock.
This fantastic hold all in Midnight Blue has been crafted in the finest calfskin and made in Italy by Ferragamo. It’s part of the Charming collection and a great addition to any woman’s collection. I would choose this tote for business wear and with plenty of room for my ipad, I can see it quickly becoming a bag of choice for my daily use. The rounded silhouette is emphasised by the stitching on the dials, while the reinforced bottom ensures durability. Lined with suede, the interior features a detachable pouch and a leather lace fastening.
Ever stylish and iconic, this bold addition from Alexander McQueen is the Peak Bag Small in Lapis Blue. I absolutely love this bag - it’s trendy, cutting-edge design lends itself to late nights with cocktails in hand and the bold blue of the calfskin leather is a statement that will add a touch of high fashion to your look. The bag can be worn over the shoulder using its antique silver-finished chain strap or hand-held by the four-ring handle.
There’s no doubt in my mind that the Rockstud Spike in Denim from Valentino Garavani is the height of fashion and, while the price point is a little painful, this handbag will stand the test of time. If you want to be super trendy, this bag could be paired with jeans to create a truly unique double denim feel to your look and is definitely a statement piece that can be worn time and again. Metal pyramid studs and a slim chain lend a lick of punk inspiration to the Rockstud Spike crossbody bag – perfectly embodying the fashion house's masterful blend of Italian elegance and contemporary detailing. Crafted from cloud-soft cotton scattered in a constellation of crystals, it's crowned with a mirrored turn-lock closure and defined by the chunky handle placed atop its body. Sling yours over one shoulder or carry it by hand, you decide. This bag is high on my wish list for 2024.
We'd love to hear which blue handbag caught your eye! Share your thoughts and experiences on our social media platforms, and let's keep the conversation going. Don't forget to explore our diverse collection and read more insightful articles on fashion trends and tips. Follow us and subscribe to our newsletter for more fashion insights and updates. Let's dive into the world of tiny treasures together!
