These Handbag Colors Will Never Go Out of Style
When you think about timeless staples, what do you automatically picture? Little black dresses? White button-downs, perhaps? Or how about tailored trousers? While these items are foundational parts of a capsule wardrobe, they're not the only thing that matters. One could argue that accessories, like purses, play a pivotal part too. On a functional level, bags allow us to carry all our essentials out in the world, but on an emotional level, they're a part of defining our personal style. We all have a handbag silhouette that has its place in our closets and hearts—albeit if it's a shopping tote, mini bag, or crossbody style.
While we might alternate between the different types of bags, when it comes to what colors we gravitate toward, that's when they become genuinely timeless. After all, bag trends change from season to season, but colors are less beholden to the trend cycle. Therefore, when investing in a handbag to add to your wardrobe, you must consider buying one that comes in a color you can count on to look chic for years to come. But which hues do you count on to be around for the long haul? Ahead, we're sharing the seven best handbag colors based on their longevity, versatility, and popularity. Scroll on to see which color is your favorite. (And maybe shop a new silhouette.)
1. Black
Black will always be, well, timeless. You can never go wrong when purchasing a black purse, as the color can pair with just about anything. Plus, designer bags that come in this color retain a higher resale value than any other shade.
Black can make any bag, no matter what brand it's from, look ten times bougier.
2. Dark Brown
Just like black, you can't go wrong with any shade of a brown bag. Go through the fashion archives and you'll see more than a handful of brown bags you'd still wear today.
Crossbody bags have always been classic, but this chocolate brown hue makes the style even chicer.
3. Gray
Are you searching for a neutral hue that doesn't feel stale? Consider gray. While black and brown bags may be more common, gray options allow your accessory to feel a bit more unique while still being as versatile as any other color. While we recommend opting for darker gray bags to up the drama, any version of this shade will have the same effect.
All of Themoire's bags are made from sustainability sourced materials.
4. Beige
If you need to expand your neutral bag collection, we highly suggest going for any shade of white bag—albeit in beige, ivory, or cream. While this style may take more effort to maintain, the hue is versatile enough to wear year-round.
Insider tip: Buying the season's biggest bag in a timeless color will ensure its longevity in your closet.
5. Bright Red
When you want to make your outfit pop, you can always count on a red bag. Red bags are our favorite styling trick to elevate a neutral outfit.
Multiple Who What Wear editors own this bag, so you know it's good.
Featuring an adjustable strap, this bag can be worn on the shoulder or across the body.
6. Dark Green
Contrary to its slime-green cousin, darker green hues (like olive or forest green) will never go out of style. There's something about the darker versions of this hue that makes any bag look impeccably chic.
7. Butter Yellow
Hear us out: Yellow is a neutral! There will always be room for butter yellow in our closets because it's deliciously fun, and often, the ingredients needed to make any outfit feel brand new again. Your everyday blazer and trouser combinations can serve again with the addition of a yellow handbag.
8. Navy Blue
Lastly, we'd be remiss to not mention navy blue. Although this color might not seem like the most exciting one of the bunch, it's by far one of the most enduring because of its close ties to our other beloved wardrobe staple: denim. After all, dark-wash denim has remained classic for years, so of course, it would stand to be that in bag form, too! You might not end up wearing this purse with jeans, but you can rest assured that it will remain a perennial favorite of yours for years to come.
This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated by Jasmine Fox-Suliaman.
-
I'm Only Buying My Winter Basics From This One Nordstrom Brand
It's *that* good.
By Lauren Adhav
-
The Elegant Color That Stylish People in Copenhagen and London Are Wearing With Red
We'll be seeing a lot more of it in 2025.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Sorry to My Black Coats, But Chic Women in NYC Convinced Me to Prioritize This Color Instead
From Gisele to Katie.
By Eliza Huber
-
20 Stylish and Effective Accessories That Offer Sweet Relief for Sound-Sensitive Fashion People
Calming, efficient, and oh so chic? Yes, please.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Chic People in London and NYC Love This Winter Shoe Trend—10 Styles From Nordstrom's BF Sale
Who can say no to discounted designer footwear?
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Drop Everything: Madewell x Alexa Chung Part Two Has Arrived
Corduroy and satin are here to save the day.
By Ana Escalante
-
The Ultra-Rich Color Trend That Is Chocolate Brown's Close Cousin
Family ties.
By Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
-
I Want a Rich-Looking Wardrobe—33 Perfect Picks From Nordstrom's (Early) Black Friday Sale
Get a head start with these chic gems.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes