There Are 9 Different Bags We'd Say You Need in a Grown-Up Wardrobe

Finding a new handbag is tricky. Even for the most experienced shopper, navigating the new crop of trends each season is overwhelming, to say the least. Right now, with a micro-trend emerging on Instagram on what feels like a near-weekly basis, it's more confusing than ever. But we've decided to make things that little bit easier and narrow down the types of handbags currently trending among the fashion crowd. From minimalist totes that are ideal for work to practical options for off-duty dressing and mood-lifting iterations your wardrobe's been crying out for—these are the nine types of bags you'll want to wish list.

If You're Big Into Cute Bags, You'll Need Something Beaded

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(Image credit: @stephaniebroek)

Style Notes: Colorful beaded bags might just be the most unexpected accessory trend of the season. So what's the appeal? These cherry rainbow styles are perfect for pairing with summery separates, but most importantly, they are fun to wear, as some Susan Alexandra iterations even come with teeny-tiny strawberries on the front.

If You Love French-Girl Style, You'll Want Something Woven

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(Image credit: @jeannedamas)

Style Notes: If anyone's going to tempt us to invest in one more basket bag, it's Jeanne Damas. Choose a supersize shopper to wear on the shoulder or keep it chic with something mid-size—your summer wardrobe needs this.

If You're Always at Work, You Should Secure a Top-Handle Tote

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(Image credit: The Street Pie)

Style Notes: If your focus is solely on office accessories, a top-handle tote is the way to go. Smart enough for work without being boring, a sleek, smooth leather iteration is the epitome of chic.

If You Only Carry the Absolute Essentials, Downsize to a Mini Bag

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(Image credit: @thedailydeb)

Style Notes: If you've mastered the art of packing light, you'll already know teeny-tiny bags are a total game changer. Sound dramatic? The good news is that compact styles are set to stay, so many of our favorite brands are releasing super-cute iterations so we can get in on the trend.

If You Love Being Hands-Free, Consider a Belt Bag

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(Image credit: @nerdabouttown)

Style Notes: If you're not overly fussed by giant handbags and you really only carry two or three items at any given time, why bother with fussy shoulder straps? Instead, slip on a belt bag.

If You're All About Versatile Accessories, a Crossbody Bag Is Essential

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(Image credit: @bettinalooney)

Style Notes: This is a no-brainer. No wonder it's been around for so long, as this easy style fits everything we need and some and is just as easy to slip over a chunky knit on the weekend as it is to tuck under our arm for a night out.

Related: Cheap(ish) Accessories That Will Help Your Outfit Live Its Best Life

If You're Over Clutch Bags, Try Something With a Drawstring

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(Image credit: @lisa.aiken)

Style Notes: Swap your trusty clutch for something silky, embellished, or covered in pearls that comes complete with a drawstring handle—the pouch is your new party essential.

If You're Truly a Minimalist, Invest in a Bucket Bag

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(Image credit: @hannahlewisstylist)

Style Notes: If you're looking for something simple, stylish, and timeless, head straight for Staud and pick up the Bissett bag. Style it with classic white shirts, chino trousers, and straight-cut denim.

If You Spend All Your Money on Bags, You Need a Classic Chanel Bag

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: We're giving Chanel the spotlight here because once you've tried every other bag trend, there's nothing left to do but secure the ultimate investment piece, as seen on so many style supremos, a quilted Chanel bag.

Next up, the holiday packing list we believe in.

Opening Image: @stephaniebroek

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.

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