Bucket bags: This season's must-have

If you're looking to splash some cash on some new arm candy, then the must-have item is the bucket bag – the summer's hottest shape.

Tods Bag
Tods Bag
(Image credit: Armando Grillo)

If you're looking to splash some cash on some new arm candy, then the must-have item is the bucket bag – the summer's hottest shape.

Bucket bags are big news this summer. Trending on many of the catwalks, they were seen at Gucci, Tod's and Rebecca Minkoff, and you'll find them on the arms of every stylist, model and blogger in the fashion world.

If you're not looking to splurge on a designer piece, fear not as the high street has totally got this covered. Head to Massimo Dutti if you're looking for something chic and practical or ASOS for a fun a selection. If you have a bit more cash to splash then Mansur Gavriel, who are like the bucket bag queens, are the go-to brand for litterally everyone that works in fashion.

Although the bucket bag is a classic shape and has been around for awhile, for this season it has been reincarnated in an array of sizes, colours and fabrics. From the neon shades brought to you by Sophie Hulme to the retro fix by Moschino, there's sure to be a bucket bag to suit every taste, budget and need.

Stylish yet practical, the bucket bag is deceivingly spacious and roomy, unless you opt for a mini version, and the nifty little drawstring makes it so easy to get in and out of the bag while keeping all your valuables safe.

The best thing? As day bags go, the bucket pretty much goes with anything and everyting from jeans and T-shirts to summer dresses. You name it, it will work with pretty much any outfit.

If you want something a little smarter for the office, then invest in a leather version and choose a classic colour like the Sophie Hulme's burgundy number that we are lusting after or the Marc by Marc Jacobs black textured bag. For an evening option, shop around for a miniature bucket bag and don't be afraid to mix things up with fun colours and textures.

Abisoye Odugbesan is a London-based freelance fashion stylist and was previously fashion editor at Marie Claire UK. Abisoye is also the founder of beauty platform Beauty And Style Edit. Her work includes styling fashion and beauty editorials, celebrity dressing, wardrobe and brand consultancy, still life shoots and e-comm.