Ducey coat, Cos shirt, Reformation pants, Chanel bag, Courage pumps, Eterne socks, LGR sunglasses, Marissa Klass necklace
Spring/Summer 2026 brings changes to handbags, with colors and materials leading the conversation. After seeing butter yellow move through ready-to-wear last year, the shade is now appearing in bags – along with saturated red, grassy green and navy blue, signaling a move towards accessories as a key point of expression. Throughout the season, some clear directions emerge.
color takes center stage
Bright shades have emerged as one of the defining handbag stories of Spring/Summer 2026. From butter yellow to saturated red, blue and green, color shows up in shoulder bags and clutches in a way that feels pervasive rather than isolated. Rather than acting as a finishing touch, these colors lead the design, bringing energy to everyday outfits. The amount of bold colors across all collections points to a broader shift toward expressive accessories, with designers leaning toward vibrant palettes that feel fresh, modern, and highly wearable.
soft structure
This season introduces a new approach to proportion, with bags appearing larger, softer and designed for daytime wear. Sculpted leather styles sit alongside gathered pouches and comfortable carries, signaling a move toward bags that balance appearance with practicality. The result is deliberate but clean, placed under the arm, sized for actual use, and built to last with ease throughout the day.
Fringe and embellished details
Decorative elements step in as a second layer of expression. Fringe adds dynamism, while embellished finishes introduce shine and texture through beading and surface details. These styles bring a playful edge, transforming everyday bags into extraordinary pieces without compromising on functionality.
Overall, Spring/Summer 2026 points to handbags defined by color, material and thoughtful proportions, with investment bags that refresh the wardrobe without feeling tied to a moment.
The post Spring/Summer 2026 Bag Trends: Color-Forward Carries Worth Investing in appeared first on Julia Berolzheimer.
