Chic, Classy and Perfect for Summer—These Handbag Colours Will Elevate Every Outfit You Wear

The audio of Charli XCX sharing what's inside her bag may be going viral on TikTok, but right now my focus is on finding the bag itself. I've already got the basics covered—I'm a big believer in investing in the kind of versatile bag that transcends seasons and trends—but if the British summer weather is going to continue to be this gloomy, then I need something to cheer me up. And what better to brighten up a grey summer day than a colourful handbag?

@anoukyve wearing a white handbag with trousers and shirt

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

There are some classic, anti-trend colours that come back year after year, namely brown, white and black. These are arguably the colours that are worth investing in, as you can rest assured that you'll get plenty of use out of them for years to come. But recently, I've noticed more and more tastemakers sporting more playful hues, including greens, reds and oranges. The best thing about these colours is the variety of shades they encompass, meaning you're sure to find a tone that matches your personal style—and your summer plans.

More of a minimalist? Lean into warmer, earthy tones like khaki or olive greens, deep burgundy and burned orange hues. Looking for your handbag to add a jolt of bright, dopamine-inducing colour? Opt for more vibrant hues like lime green, cherry red and neon orange. Whatever you're hue, and whatever your budget—the high street and designer brands are delivering equally strong contenders this year—one of the bag colours is sure to be the ideal match.

1. Green

@lucywilliams02 wearing a green handbag with double denim

(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Style Notes: Ever since Bottega Veneta released their iconic woven green leather bag, this colour has earned its place as an A list-approved fashion colour. This season, the options have broadened, encompassing shades ranging from neon hues to earthy khaki tones.

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2. White

@brittanybathgate wearing a white bag with a black dress

(Image credit: @brittanybathgate)

Style Notes: Is there anything more elegant than a white handbag? As Brittany proves, a white leather style adds a seriously refined touch to evening wear, but in the summer months especially, it can feel super fresh and stylish for daytime wear, too.

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3. Brown

@francescasaffari wearing a brown woven bag with shorts and a t-shirt

(Image credit: @francescasaffari)

Style Notes: Whether you go for deep chocolate tones or lighter tan shades, brown is a classic handbag colour. This season, woven textures are the top trend to embrace, but there's also a world of fabrics, textures and silhouettes to explore.

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4. Red

@abimarvel wearing a red bag and brown dress

(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Style Notes: Pops of red keep appearing on my feed, and if you're a bit intimidated on how to find a way to integrate the colour into your daily wardrobe, a bag is a great place to start. And while it may be trending now, a red handbag will always be in style.

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5. Orange

@oliviamarcus wearing an orange bag with a t-shirt and shorts

(Image credit: @oliviamarcus)

Style Notes: On holiday or at home, orange bags are a great way to brighten up your summer wardrobe. The colour pops so well against staple summer clothing colours, especially crisp white pieces, but will also add a fun summer touch to your favourite black styles, too.

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6. Black

@isabellecoheen wearing a black handbag with a green dress

(Image credit: @isabellecoheen)

Style Notes: Yes, really. Black may not be the most surprising colour, but this summer influencers are really backing it for summer. The good news is, you'll probably find yourself relying on it for the rest of the year, too.

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.