"Poolside hangs, hosting outdoor dinner parties on the back porch, and family vacays are here. Besides sprucing up my summer capsule wardrobe, I also have an eye on my favorite summertime bags to pair with my poplin shorts and jelly flats (yes, they’re back more than ever). However, as a mom of two littles, sometimes the cute, trending options aren’t always tailored for moms. Why? Well, it all has to do with the size. When I look at trendy purses, I’m always asking myself the same question. Can it at least hold a diaper or two, a couple small toys, and—we can’t forget the most essential of them all—snacks? If a bag doesn’t pass the size test, then I’m on to the next.
But I’m ready to trade my diaper bag in for a chic yet functional bag that won’t be a downer to my summer style. If you’re in the same boat and on the lookout for trending summer bags (suitable for date nights and for your moms’ night out) and bags that also fit your lifestyle (for when you’re out and about with the family this summer), don’t worry. I rounded up the “it” trending summer bags of the season. Plus, their mom-approved alternatives, so you won’t have to sacrifice your style at all this summer. The best part? No one will even know that you’re carrying your favorite pair of sunnies and lip gloss with a bag of Goldfish and your kid’s favorite action figure all in the same place.
Ready to ditch the diaper bag this summer? From beaded bags to slouchy bags, find 13 trending summer bags below, along with their mom-approved alternatives. There’s a bag to fit every summer occasion!
The beaded bag
Beaded bags are bright, fun, and the “it” bag of the summer. While I’m grabbing myself a STAUD Tommy Beaded Bag, I’m also adding some mom-friendly options, too. They’re perfect for your family summer vacay.
The woven leather bag
These highly rated woven leather bags are chic, and I love that these options can be elevated by detaching their straps. The Quince Italian Leather Handwoven Satchel comes with a center divider, which is great for separating your essentials and your kids’ must-have items.
The wicker top-handle bag
Wanting a fashionable beach purse? Wicker top-handle bags are the trendy summer option that give you a beachy vibe and can easily be dressed up or down. They look great with both casual summer outfits and dressed-up date night ones.
The straw tote
Is there any style of bag that screams summer more than a straw tote? Whether you opt for a mini version or the ultimate mom carry-all, these bags add the perfect touch of summer texture to any look. If you’re worried about your tote becoming a black hole, we’d recommend an affordable tote insert.
The raffia clutch
Just because a bag is called a “clutch” doesn’t mean it has to be tiny. Both of the options below are roomy enough for a few day-to-day essentials. The Sézane option is even big enough for a couple of diapers.
The east-west silhouette
I love the long, sleek, and sophisticated look of east-west bags. While you can definitely fit a lot on these bags, you can opt for a hobo bag or satchel when you need to carry even more. Bonus points for a bag in butter yellow, which is a major color trend this year.
The bucket bag
With a wider base, bucket bags definitely give you more room to hold all your things—wallet, keys, a kid’s tablet, snacks, and more. This style is ideal for when you want a bit of structure but still want to be able to carry a lot.
The slouchy bag
While the smaller versions of these bags serve as a sophisticated look for a girls’ night out, they’re not very practical for daily mom life. When you’re out with the family, trade it in for an oversized slouchy bag.
The cane bag
Summer bags are all about texture, and we love that cane is a bit more unique than raffia or straw. Both sizes of this Madewell style definitely serve a purpose, but the large tote will truly fit everything you need.
The rope tote
Whether you’re going to your local market or off to a playdate, you won’t regret wearing a fashionable rope tote. I love this fun pop of pink for summer, but of course they come in neutrals as well. The mini bag is ideal for date night.
The woven half-moon
This woven half-moon bag style makes any summer look a bit more elegant. They’re perfect for dressing up or down for a summer dinner night out or for a fun day at the splash pad with the kids.
The crescent bag
Cute little crescent bags (especially in fun summer colors) are majorly on-trend right now. Achieve the same look with a bag you can actually fit things in by opting for a crescent-style shoulder bag.
Summer suede
Believe it or not, suede is in for the summer. These timeless bags will go with anything, and their mom-friendly counterparts are roomy enough to hold an extra set of toddler clothes, books, and crayons.
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