Must-Have Handbags for Summer

Summer is a time of bright colors and light fabrics. We put away our sweaters and boots and pull out flimsy tops and flip-flops. Most of us even lock away our winter clothes so that we don't have to think about cold and wet days for a long time. There is a good chance that at least one item in your closet won't find its way into the winter pile, though. All too often, we hang onto the handbag that we're carrying and forget to find something that is better suited to the heat and humidity of summer.

That should change this summer. You should start thinking about the bag that you want to carry--whether you love Italian leather purses or something woven and colorful. Chances are good that your current bag has seen quite a bit of abuse throughout the winter months, so go ahead and give yourself permission for a new treat. Then consider your personal style so that you know exactly where to look when you shop.

How to Choose the Right Leather Handbag for Summer

If you keep a casual and laid back appearance most of the time, then you would probably continue to trend more toward the slouchy leather shoulder bags. These come in quite a few styles, including the classic hobo silhouette. Even if you love the leather, that's no reason to consider the bag too heavy for the summer months. These leather bags can come in pastel colors. In fact, there is nothing more striking than a pristine white leather bag made from butter-soft leather.

Handbags for the Active and Outdoorsy

Hobo silhouettes aren't the only style that scream summer. With longer days and balmy evenings, you may want to spend more time on a bicycle. This means you'll need your hands free. Why not look into side saddle bags that fit over your shoulder and give you the ability to steer your bike without worrying about losing the contents of your purse? You can find them in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Most people appreciate leather saddle bags because they hold up to the elements and keep their shape even when you're a bit rough with them.

Accessories for the Glamourous Gal

Of course, the summer isn't complete without the nights spent dancing under the stars. If you need something a little classier for your nighttime activities, you can look at clutches and wristlets. It's not always necessary to get the flashiest one available, either, and that's why clutches and wristlets come in a variety of colors and textures. You can certainly find one with sequins if you wish, or you could find a smooth and classic leather wristlet. There are colors to match anything in your wardrobe, and that gives you even more options for accessorizing. If you're really fashion forward, you can match the bags to your shoes, too. Take a look at some of the leather clutches and wristlets that are available, and you won't be able to resist having one of your very own. Ah, go on and get two. They're small.

Juliette Bousquet is a 20-year freelance fashion journalist based in Montreal, Canada. Bousquet has identified the latest fashions in Italian leather handbags women's apparel, and accessories in all the fashion "hot beds" in North America for the last two decades.

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