Bag It!

June 12, 2015

Pack for the park, bring a book to the beach, stash your sunscreen, lug along your lunch – no matter where you’re going this summer, you’re going to need something to carry your stuff. Check out the latest bag styles and you’ll finally be able to leave that plastic grocery bag where it belongs – in the recycling bin.

1. THE OPEN TOP TOTE

Similar to that grocery bag but 100 percent more refined, is the open top tote, available in so many versions this season that you’ll have a tough time choosing. Land’s End offers one of the classic models of this bag. Their tip-proof, extra-large Classic Canvas Tote ($45) with thick, sturdy handles is one you’re probably already seeing on the beaches of northern Michigan and it’s available in nearly any color you can think of, with or without preppy monogramming. If you want a more glam version of the open top tote, try designer Vanessa Bruno’s Les Cabas Linen Tote with sequins ($355), sure to add pizzazz to your beach jaunts or shopping trips all season long.

2. THE BUCKET BAG

The newest version of the classic bucket bag is another simple tote that’s perfect for summer, but this one has a drawstring closure, meaning you can easily dump everything in and it’ll have less chance of falling out. DKNY has a great leather version, the Bryant Park Saffiano, in either black or a bright neon yellow, for $275. Michael Kors’ Two-Tone Bucket mixes coral and brown leathers with an MK medallion and internal pocket. Also in bright yellow, but more beach-friendly, is Marni’s Lemmon Rucksack ($1,150) in canvas and leather, with a detachable handle and the brand’s 20th anniversary date marked right on the front. Just throw in those bottles of sunscreen and your wallet, and you’re ready to go.

3. THE BACKPACK’S BACK

We know; you hear the word backpack and probably flash right back to the "˜90s, but this useful style has returned with a lot of upscale updates. It’s not Zack Morris’ backpack anymore. Men, snag yourselves a pack from Piquandro or Krisvanassche in thick leather or heavy nylon with modern details like cord piping, leather pulls and protective tablet pockets (prices start at $398). Girls, feel free to borrow from the boys. Some of the men’s backpack styles work just as well with feminine fashions or you can get your own. Try the new clean lines of Alexander McQueen’s MCQ Razor Black pack ($925) or, for a more artsy vibe, Kenzo’s groovy multi-logo pack that fits right in with this summer’s hippie trends ($570).

4. THE FOLIO

If your summertime treks are more likely to lead you to the air-conditioned refuge of your local coffee shop, the Folio may be a better choice. Five years ago, most computer bags looked like you were heading for the office, but now, these stylish versions offer the same handy compartments for your gear, but with a less restrictive look. Urban Junket’s Korri Carry-All folio ($129-149) is perfect for rainy days and Mondays and you can snag it in scarlet, black or white, while Kate Spade’s Esta Street folio ($198) adds a sporty, casual feel with hot pink neoprene. Even guys are no longer limited to square black bags that scream "computer inside!" Try these two from designer Paul Smith: his navy blue City Webbing Folio ($850) made of embossed leather with striped trim and his "˜50s-cool Graphic Garage Print Folio in printed canvas ($425).