Chic Shoulder Bags

When it comes to an eye-catching bag, there’s no question you’re better off red. This boldly hued leather shopper is a prime pick to pair with all your summer brights, whites and blues. The larger size means you can pack it full of the essentials, and if you ever do have your hands free, you can remove the strap and carry it by the handles.

To buy: Zara Soft Shopper, $159

Nothing says easy breezy summer like a colorful crochet bag. This super-cute cotton bucket-style bag with a cross-body strap has all the ingredients to become your go-to bag for beach days or any causal outing. And, it’s easy to fold up and pack in your suitcase, making it the ultimate getaway bag.

To buy: Stela 9 Crochet Beach Bag, $98

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Pink leather handles add a playful finishing touch to this otherwise subdued—but chic—canvas shoulder bag. The neutral color with a darker shade strap means this summer-ready bag will still be in play long after Labor Day. Roomy and light, you can add those just-in-case extras without feeling like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders.

To buy: Madewell Contrast Caravan Mailbag, $78

Be it real or faux, quilted leather is having a major moment in vogue, and this white bowling bag is a great way to get a handle on that trend. When you’re lunching with the ladies, sans kids, remove the cross-body strap and carry this haute handbag by the top handles. The ladylike look of this chic bag belies its made-for-mom multitasking functionality.

To buy: Mango Quilted Bowling Handbag, $65

The perennially stylish zebra print ups the fashion factor of this mini bucket-style messenger bag. The black-and-white graphic is a perfect complement to some of the summer’s hottest hues, such as orange, yellow, red and green. And the silver trim studs add a modern twist to this classic pattern.

To buy: Zara Zebra Mini Messenger Bag, $100

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Heed the call of your hippie self with this boho black suede hobo. Details such as whip stitching and fringe accents give this bag a '70s chic (with a pinch of rock 'n' roll) vibe that plays perfectly into this season’s love affair with maxi-length skirts and dresses, and the ubiquitous cutoff denim shorts. The adjustable strap means you can also wear it as shoulder bag.

To buy: Mango Tassel Leather Handbag, $180

For those who like to take a more traditional approach to handbags, the timeless style of this carryall is sure to please. Made from a washed leather, this bag is all the things a busy mom could want: roomy, organized (it has two interior pockets and three exterior ones) and enduringly fashionable.

To buy: Topshop Large Washed Leather Holdall, $150

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British bag maker The Cambridge Satchel Company put itself on the fashion map with its neo-neon satchels that became the it bags of the style-savvy. The company's latest covetable carryall is an exclusive two-tone design for Asos. Taking a bit of a sophisticated turn, this cream with black accent version is a must-have for moms who prefer a more subtle and classic style.

To buy: Cambridge Satchel Company Contrast Trim, $230

Too hot outside for jeans? You can still get your daily dose of denim with this casual yet sharp shoulder bag. The pinstripe accents and white leather strap add to its warm-weather feel, and the lightweight fabric means you can fill this respectably sized bag to the brim without needing a hand to lift it up.

To buy: Juicy Couture Dark Denim Perfect State Bag, $205

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Clare Vivier has established herself as the darling of handbag designers with her collection of covetable and cool carryalls, and her signature messenger bag is a must-have for stylish girls everywhere (not to mention celebs such as Katie Holmes; she carries a red one). The removable mini clutch is the perfect place to stash cash, keys, lipstick and a cell phone so they’re easy to access.

To buy: Clare Vivier Messenger Bag, $363