Imagine this: you're in (*inserts dream holiday destination), you've spent a whole day at the beach and now you're on the balcony with a bag of Lays and a Fanta limón about to get ready for the evening ahead. Life. Is. Good. And sometimes, when you're just heading out for dinner or a few drinks, a switch of shoes and bag is all you need to take a look into after-dark territory. So it's important to make sure your holiday packing list includes your favourite carry-everything supersize straw bag, a crossbody for exploring and come evening, you can forget about the functional need and just wear styles that look fun with your summer looks.
Not just for holiday, either, evening bags have a place in your wardrobe even if you're just popping out for after-work drinks with the girls. Not sure which summer evening bags to try for 2024? I've narrowed it down to five styles I've already spotted everyone wearing this season––from pretty beading to mini woven styles.
Shop the Best Summer Evening Bags:
1. Beaded
Style Notes: Pretty beaded bags are a favourite for summer, wedding guest looks and party season. So, if you get one now, it's a guarantee you'll wear them all year round. Not the most function of choices, though, these are best left for special occasions like Amy's evening holiday look.
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Here to brighten up every summer outfit.
Brown is everywhere at the moment.
This would work so well with silver jewellery and denim.
Practical? No. Cute? Yes.
This will see you through party season, too.
2. East-West
Style Notes: Alaïa put the skinny East-West bag on the map with its Teckel bag worn by everyone, including Marilyn. Polished, sleek and big enough to hold the evening essentials, it's a summer favourite to wear with everything from capri pants to slip dresses.
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White will work all year round.
Silver accessories aren't going anywhere.
You'll find any excuse to wear this one, forever.
This sleek mini bag also comes in black or brown suede.
The bag charms are ticking off two trends in one.
3. Mini Woven
Style Notes: Straw, raffia, crochet or leather, any material goes, as long as it has that summery woven look. Make like Lucy and leave your supersize daytime styles at home, for evening, it's all about the mini versions.
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This mini Dragon Diffusion will also work for weddings, too.
Add the strap for daytime strolls on holiday.
No doubt this will be a new cult style for summer.
Basket bags aren't just for day looks.
Designer vibes. And on sale!
4. Classic Clutch
Style Notes: A night out in the early '00s wouldn't have been complete without a clutch (most likely envelope) bag. While these are firmly in the past, clutch bags in box or squishy form have made a return. Sasha proves they're still the perfect companion to a black dress.
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I'm seeing this with a pastel pink dress at a beachside restaurant.
A talking point bag will never go unnoticed.
So sleek.
The removable straps makes this squishy bag a two-for-one buy.
Raffia and a clutch? It's a win-win!
5. '90s Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: If you prefer to be hands-free when heading out for dinner or drinks, a simple shoulder bag is the answer. Emili opts for a vintage Fendi baguette, but any style goes this season.
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You can always find the best vintage Fendi bags at Vestiaire.
Firmly on my wish list.
We all know butter yellow is still the colour of the season.
The next It bag? I think so.
I love this directional shape
