As the days get longer and the heat ramps up, it’s time to reconsider what your summer bag says about you. Whether you’re channeling your inner Jane Birkin cycling through the south of France, embracing the bold urban heat of New York like Dua Lipa, or gliding across the deck of a yacht with Amalfi vibes, summer bags are more than just accessories—they are statements. These bags carry more than just your essentials; they are portable personalities, packed with energy and moods, offering a wide range of options to suit any summer adventure. Here’s Vogue’s guide to the top eight must-have bags for a stylish summer in 2025.
1. Canvas Totes
A classic canvas tote is the ultimate summer essential, effortlessly bridging the gap between casual comfort and understated sophistication. Whether you’re on a beach holiday or running errands in the city, this versatile bag adds a chic, laid-back vibe to any outfit. Its spacious design makes it perfect for all your essentials, from sunscreen to beach reads. This piece works as well for a day at the pool as it does for a picnic in the park, making it a staple in any wardrobe.
- Featured: Miu Miu Ivy Canvas Tote Bag – AED 9,000
2. Straw Bags
No summer is complete without a straw bag. The quintessential accessory of sun-drenched days, it evokes the feeling of beachside escapes and relaxed outdoor gatherings. From oversized totes for a day by the water to smaller bags perfect for a sunset aperitif, the straw bag is endlessly versatile. Its natural texture offers a casual elegance that pairs beautifully with light, airy summer fabrics.
- Featured: Jacquemus Le Petit Soli Basket Bag – AED 1,275
3. Raffia Bags
Raffia bags have become a summer staple over the years, with their natural charm and timeless appeal. Often seen in the hands of style icons like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Gigi Hadid, and Hailey Bieber, these bags offer a blend of practicality and chic flair. Lightweight and durable, raffia bags transition seamlessly from casual day outings to vacation mode, ensuring that you’re ready for anything from shopping in the city to lounging poolside.
- Featured: Prada Crochet Tote Bag – AED 7,800
4. Basket Bags
For a bohemian touch, the basket bag is where nostalgia meets effortless style. These bags, evoking the spirit of 1970s Jane Birkin, bring a rustic and nonchalant vibe to any outfit. Perfect for summer picnics, beach outings, and countryside strolls, they combine fashion and functionality with ease. Often paired with sundresses, denim shorts, and wide-brimmed hats, the basket bag is the epitome of laid-back luxury.
- Featured: Chloé Small Woody Basket Top Handle Bag – AED 2,019
5. Woven Bags
For those looking for a more refined alternative to the traditional basket, woven bags (or intrecciato bags) make a stylish statement. The unique craftsmanship behind the weave elevates the design, making it an excellent all-rounder. The lightweight material is perfect for those hot summer days, while the intricate weaving offers a more sophisticated aesthetic. Ideal for both beach days and evening cocktails, woven bags are the perfect blend of function and style.
- Featured: Stella McCartney Ryder Woven Tote – AED 7,160
6. Colour-Pop Bags
Summer is all about embracing bold, bright hues, and your bag should follow suit. A colour-pop bag, whether in pastel shades or vibrant tropical prints, injects energy into your wardrobe and signals the arrival of sunnier days. Perfect for pairing with neutral or monochromatic outfits, these bags serve as a statement piece that adds a burst of colour and joy to any ensemble.
- Featured: Balenciaga Neon Pink Hourglass Bag – AED 12,000
7. Miniature Bags
If your style leans more toward minimalist chic, then the miniature bag is the ideal summer companion. These tiny accessories have made a major comeback, allowing you to carry only your essentials in style. Despite their size, these bags still make a big impact with their structured shapes and unique designs. A perfect fit for evening outings or for adding a quirky touch to a casual look, miniature bags are a modern take on the classic bag silhouette.
- Featured: Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie Bag – AED 6,400
8. Beach-Ready Bags
Beach bags have evolved over the years, now offering both utility and style. From oversized totes that carry everything you need for a day in the sun, to chic raffia or straw designs, the modern beach bag is as fashionable as it is practical. Whether you’re lounging by the sea or heading to a pool party, these bags are designed to hold everything you need—sunscreen, sunglasses, beach towel, and more—without compromising on style.
- Featured: Fendi Straw Beach Tote – AED 8,500
The Versatility of Bags in Summer 2025
As we dive into 2025’s summer bag trends, it’s clear that bags are no longer just functional—they’re an integral part of how we express ourselves. Whether you choose a classic straw bag for your beach getaway or a vibrant colour-pop bag to energize your evening look, the right accessory has the power to transform any outfit. From understated raffia bags to statement woven pieces, there’s a style for every personality and occasion this season.
This summer, explore bags that not only complement your look but also capture your mood, your adventures, and your style. Let your bag be a reflection of your summer spirit and a chic companion wherever you go.
