There’s nothing like shopping for beach bags to signal not only the beginning of summer, but the start of holiday season. That said, while they’re undoubtedly the most practical thing you’ll pack, they’re also a great everyday bag for running errands and fitting all your essentials in, face masks, antibac and all.
Beach bags, whether made of raffia, basket or fabric, are a big summer trend for SS22 as well, and needless to say, go hand in hand with a pretty summer dress.
If you aren’t sure which style to invest in, then a classic option is the basket bag. It’s no surprise it’s been a best-seller with brands such as Loewe and Jacquemus for the past few seasons. When it comes to SS22, the bigger the better, it’s all about having fun with proportions.
There are more fashion-forward beach bags in the line-up too, and I’m especially loving logo totes (see Anya Hindmarch or Chloe), printed fabric bags (Dior and Melissa Odabash) and brightly coloured crocheted arm candy (Alanui).
While designer styles always draw the eye, so do the high street ones this season. The usual suspects – think Zara, H&M, Mango and ASOS – all offer fun, trendy beach bags that certainly won’t break the bank.
In terms of styling, pool-side, use your bag to accessorise a chic swimsuit and sarong combo, and in the evening, a floaty floral dress. This way, you’re covered from beach to bar.
If you’re on dry land, then your beach bag will be the perfect companion to a linen suit or denim shorts and a t-shirt. For more inspiration to round off your new season look, do take the time to scroll through my other edits: the best sunglasses, summer sandals and swimwear to get your sartorial juices flowing.
Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best beach bags available to buy right now…
Afroart Large Raffia Bag, £39 at Arket
Raffia is a strong fibre made from the leafs of the Raffia palm. This beautiful raffia bag, made in Madagascar, features a checked pattern and double leather handles. A perfect bag for the beach, the picnic or simply for shopping.
Dee & Melissa Tropical Print Tote, £337
The limited-edition Tote bag is a collaboration between Dee Ocleppo and Melissa Odabash and is adorned in printed canvas in the favourite bespoke Melissa Odabash print and structured in Dee Ocleppo’s classic silhouette. Crafted in 100% eco-sustainable material, this bag features two internal pockets and a detachable bow on the handle.
LOEWE PAULA’S IBIZA Anagram-logo gradient basket bag, £575 at MatchesFashion
Loewe Paula's Ibiza bag is woven from yellow and green gradient Iraca palm to an open-top silhouette and suspends from rolled tan leather handles. If you're looking for a beach bag that's small in size but big in character, this is it.
Beach Household Tote, £195 at Anya Hindmarch
Made from strong canvas from recycled plastic bottles, our Household totes are designed to systemise your life, keeping you organised whilst on the go or at home. Labelled with BEACH, this tongue-in cheek everyday canvas beach bag can be worn as a shoulder bag or handheld tote.
Contrast woven tote, £22.99 at Zara
This cute Zara tote features an internal pocket to keep all your belongings safe, as well as two straps.
ALANUI Beach Break crocheted cotton tote, £655
Alanui's bohemian 'Beach Break' tote is meticulously crocheted with vibrant stripes that resemble the shades of a sunset. It's designed in a slouchy silhouette with wide top handles for comfortable carrying and can easily stow your everyday essentials.
Cotton shopper bag, £19.99 at Mango
I actually own this tote bag and love it. It's stylish and I've yet to find something that doesn't fit in it. It comes in blue, red and beige.
Straw beach bag, £17.99 at H&M
Told you H&M served up some great beach bags. This style is classic and timeless.
CHLOE Woody large canvas and leather tote bag, £790 at Selfridges
Chloe's cotton canvas bag is an investment style that will last you decades thanks to its timeless design.
JW Anderson Orange Belt Felt Tote Bag, £375 at Browns
This orange JW Anderson Belt felt tote bag is embroidered with the label’s signature anchor logo on the front. Showcasing a spacious interior, the design features two leather top handles with silver tone buckle detailing, internal patch pocket and top tie fastening.
