Spring: It’s In the Bag

Budding leaves, blooming flowers, chirping birds and the smell of fresh-cut grass all mean one thing: Spring has (finally) arrived. As you begin trading in your chunky sweaters and heavy coats for tank tops and flip flops, you’ll likely consider giving your handbag collection a spring makeover, as well. Before you’re left wondering which bag to grab, consult our list for inspiration. We have solutions for just about every situation.

The mauve color of this Forever 21 Leatherette Matelassé Handbag is a pretty spring hue.

Formal Fun

For many college organizations, this is the time of year to hold a Formal. That typically means wearing a fancy dress, spending hours on hair and makeup and ultimately trying to recreate the magic of your prom experience. Forever 21 has a number of bags to complete the look you are going for on your special night, all within a reasonable price range. Like this one– The color screams spring, the chain dresses up the bag and it’s the perfect size to hold your formal necessities.

Vera BradleyFloral patterns in trend-setting colors make any Vera Bradley style your perfect go-to bag for spring outings. New colors this season include Deco Daisy, a classic combination of red, black and white in a festive-for-spring pattern, and Watercolor, which as the name suggests has a hand painted, romantic feel. They have upwards of 15 new patterns and styles to suit all needs from tech cases to travel accessories. Best of all, you can find Vera Bradley products at many campus bookstores so you can shop in-person without leaving campus!

The Sophie in Deco Daisy, a new style and pattern for this season

Downsizing

Warmer weather means you have less to carry, so why be weighed down by a large over-the-shoulder bag? Consider using a wristlet when you’re out for the day and only carry the essentials: phone, car keys, money, and lip gloss. Your back and shoulders will thank you for the break. Not sure which wristlet to buy? How about this yellow one from Express? It’s sure to brighten any day and won’t break the bank.

Pictured here in Neon Yellow, the Quilted Wristlet from Express is available in 10 colors and can be purchased online for $15.90 (before taxes and shipping).

Picnic on the Quad

When I was in college, warm days meant taking work outside to soak up some sun on the quad between classes. A canvas tote is ideal for stowing books, blankets and anything else you need for an afternoon in the sun. This LL Bean tote has a sturdy shape, which helps it to stand upright and it can be personalized with your initials.

The Patchwork Madras Tote from LL Bean can be ordered online and starts at $27.