by Harriet Davey.
Hands up who has a holiday booked? If having a summer trip in the diary is the highlight of your spring, you’re not alone. As a self-proclaimed summer person, heading to warmer climates is something that bring me joy. Recently, I found out the term for someone who has a fear of not having an upcoming trip booked is called ‘tripophobia’, and I couldn’t relate more. If you can agree, then no doubt you’ll have your passport on standby, a list of go-to dinner spots at your chosen destination ready and waiting and your holiday outfits will be at the forefront of your mind. While linen shorts and shirts are a sure-fire hit on vacay, strappy sandals are a must and picking swimwear that makes you feel your best on the beach is important, one of the most crucial choices to make comes down to your holiday handbags. Because we all know luggage allowance can be strict, and no one wants to incur any heavy baggage costs. So, I’m here to help you know which specific styles to pack this summer – and as a fashion editor and stylist for over ten years, you’re in good hands.
When it comes to airport luggage, I always rely on lightweight Antler or It styles that will allow me to have more room for my clothes and accessories. But as someone who is learning how to travel lighter (I once packed 11 pairs of shoes on a 3-day trip to Dubai), I’m trying to lighten the load when it comes to what I take onto the plane for hand-luggage. So instead of a small case, I opt for a roomy tote bag that I can add my make-up, chargers and extra layers to without being bundled up like a camel. And I’ve found that British brand, DeMellier, has some of the best (read: most spacious) styles around. Not only this, you’re guaranteed to want to wear them between airport visits when you get to your holiday spot, too.
Once on holiday, it’s all about having a capsule bag-drobe of key styles you can wear on heavy rotation throughout your trip. And for me, this should include a seasonally-appropriate basket bag, a neutral shoulder bag you can add to all your evening looks and when it comes to daytime outfits, there’s no better bag than a comfy, hands-free crossbody that’ll allow you to explore in style. Add to this some colourful iterations to brighten up your favourite summer outfits, and I consider these six styles the holiday heroes of summer 2024. Warning: They may induce some serious shopping urges!
The Capacious Carry-On
First things first, you’re going to need to plan your carry-on bag that has enough room for all your plane essentials – enter: the capacious carry-everything bag. Carefully crafted and incredibly well-made, DeMellier has mastered the arm of mid-price bags. This striped version (it also comes in six classic shades) has popper fastenings so you can keep your belongings safe mid-flight. It’s also roomy enough to keep another smaller bag inside if you want to leave more space in your suitcase.
DeMellier
The New York
The Fun Mini Tote
Is it practical? Not really. But will it add instant interest to your summer looks with minimal effort needed? Absolutely. It’s time to embrace the clashing colours, check prints and look-at-me logos on Marni’s new mini-me textured tote bags. This green and blue version has my vote as one of the upcoming ‘It’ styles of the season.
Marni
Tropicalia Micro Tote
The ‘90s Shoulder Bag
Carrie Bradshaw and Gwyneth Paltrow put the skinny shoulder bag on the map during the 1990s and early ‘00s, and they’ve been back as the bag du jour for quite a few years now. This white textured style with gorgeous contrast metal hardware is guaranteed to go with absolutely any after-dark look when on vacation, and back home.
Staud
Ollie Shoulder Bag
The Basket Bag
If you already own one of the cult Loewe basket bags, or you’re looking for a more purse-friendly alternative, Sézane is the answer. The French label’s bag offerings are rivalling some of the biggest designers, with the styles having that certain je ne suis que that makes them look premium. When you hit the beach or stroll around on a city break, no doubt you’ll want to take this sleek go-with-everything basket with you.
Sézane
Justine Basket
The Crossbody
When you’re island hopping, mooching around a new city or even just exploring a new area in the UK, a crossbody style is a game-changer. Keeping you hands-free on the go, this style – by minimalist brand St. Agni – is ticking off so many trends in one with its crescent moon shape, chocolate brown shade (brown is the new black this season) and textured woven design. You can also wear it as a shoulder bag for evening so it’s basically a two-for-one buy!
St.Agni
Crescent Leather Shoulder Bag
The Bright Bucket Bag
Move over red, I predict orange will be the next hue to take over the fashion world. If you’re unsure how to wear the zesty, punchy shade, a colourful bag is the easiest way to seamlessly inject colour into your existing wardrobe. This Loewe Pebble will work with everything from a white linen dress on holiday to a tailored suit for an upcoming wedding guest outfit. Psst, it also comes with a crossbody strap so you can wear it with your everyday outfits, too.
Loewe
Mini Pebble Bucket Bag
Check out more travel guide articles, “Travel handbags to use as carry-on“
