I saw my first raffia bag of the year out in the wild this weekend (no, I’m not on holiday), and that signalled to me that there is no better time to curate and discuss the summer bag trends of 2026. I’m an accessory obsessive, and to me, these are the pieces that make our outfits complete, whole and uniquely like us.

Yes, those foundational pieces of our summer capsule wardrobes are vital, but accessories like shoes and handbags provide that undeniable infusion of personality. This is undoubtedly true for summer, when clothing feels lighter and may be simpler, so you can leave it to your handbag to take it from an outfit to a look.

The trending bags capable of doing just that are increasingly clearer this season. As much as I adore autumn and winter’s serious, moody bags, I have a soft spot for the playfulness and vibrancy that many summer handbags bring. That isn’t to say they can’t be serious, too, or fit for nicer occasions. But there is a propensity for brands and designers to render summer handbags in playful colours, interesting materials and unique shapes. They often feel as full to the brim with sunshine as the season itself.

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