(The Shopping List)

16 Colorful Handbags That Make Me Happy When The Weather, Uh... Doesn’t

Storage that doubles as a mood-boast? Sign me up!

by Natasha Marsh

Jan. 24, 2023

Courtesy of Natasha Marsh

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Don’t hate me, but, I spent the month of December and half of January lounging on the beaches of California and Mexico eating pitaya bowls, blissfully unaware of the chilling winds that occurred outside my Manhattan apartment (eye roll fully warranted). It was magical. It was bliss. And then I returned to New York and things changed. Trading in sunkissed mornings and humid evenings for gray days (and even grayer nights) has been challenging to say the least. My one saving grace? My bright, sparkly, and colorful handbag collection.

I’ve leaned heavily on carryalls with fringe, embellishments, and intricate shapes to fully improve my mood when the forecast is filled with non-stop downpours, chilling winds, and noisy thunderstorms that make me want to stay in bed. Sure, my insulated puffer jackets, knit beanies, and rain boots have aided in keeping me physically warm. But nothing in my wardrobe has quite improved my spirits this dreary season as much as a cheerful, mood-boosting purse that also happens to hold my many essentials (phone, wallet, keys, pen, gloves, headphones, and an iPad).

Shop my favorite carryalls ahead (including pieces I own and have on my wishlist), filled with options to brighten up any outfit and mood — without compromising on function.

Mietis

Culita Baguette Bag

$560

This baguette shaped bag sits perfectly under my arm and the happy-making colors help me through overcast days.

Oroton

North Baguette

$450

I have green shoes, hats, coats, and sunglasses — my obsession with the color has gotten out of hand. The other day I actually told my sisters I would switch things up, and then I discovered this beauty, which had a sturdy thick strap and is deceptively roomier than you’d think.

Staud

Beaded Bean Bag Amethyst Acid Swirl

$225

I don’t have a beaded bag in my collection yet but this one is high on my list. A play on a signature Staud silhouette, this mosaic stripe style is great for neutral outfits that need some extra sauce. Plus, the leather strap is removable so you can wear it as a purse or clutch.

Sinbono

Amelia Shoulder Bag - Yellow

$109

$79

As an eco-conscious consumer, the minute I learned this shoulder bag was made from vegan leather, I was sold. The ‘90s throwback has great structure and color, all at an affordable price.

Clare V.

Summer Simple Tote

$325

I’ve been looking for a chic work tote that shows more personality than my black vegan leather backpack — this one by Clare V. is at the top of my wishlist. The woven bag is the perfect size for my laptop and would add polish to any of my office looks.

Jeff Wan

Lunch Box 11 in Flag Colorblock

$495

I’m excited to carry this one to business meetings, weekend lunches, workout classes, and everything in between. The fun mix of primary hues make it feel so special.

Behno

Simone Mini Crossbody Pebble Scuba

$545

$445

I have five Behno handbags. The New York-based brand has such interesting shapes and highly pigmented colors. This design is made with pebble-grain leather that gets softer each time you wear it.

MLE

Cece Handbag in Daylight Floral

$128

Florals might be synonymous with spring, but worn in the winter, they add joy to the grossest of days. This clutch is perfect for evening events and weekend brunches with friends.

Telfar

Small Orange Shopping Bag

$150

I’ve had my Small Orange Shopping Bag for three years now, and it is one of my most durable handbags to date. For the unaware: Telfar drops happen every Friday, so if you see your favorite color out of stock, there is always next week to try again.

JW Anderson

The Bumper Zip Leather Shoulder Bag

$790

The Bumper Zip Leather Shoulder Bag is my most coveted item for 2023. I actually gasped when I stumbled upon it. The bubblegum combo makes me think of carefree summers and memorable holidays. I love the puffy shape and I know this will soon be my go-to accent purse.

Aaks

Lame Demi Bag

$200

Although ‘lame’ is in the name, this bag is anything but. Woven raffia and chambray lining make up the tote, while the structured silhouette allows the bag to stand on its own.

I’m all about orange and this Kiko Kostadinov Leather Tote Bag is calling my name. The calf leather vibrant bag makes me think about sipping Italian cocktails under the Tuscan sun.

By Far

Kiki Sunflower Semi Patent Leather

$625

I’ve been looking for a structured handbag that is bigger than a mini but smaller than a tote, and this By Far option hits that sweet spot. Plus, during the winter, the buzzing yellow shade acts as my sunshine.

Peta + Jain

Akira

$70

The Peta + Jain Akira is a great purse for evening extravaganzas. Available in nine different color combos, I’m excited to get my hands on a few to match my myriad style desires.

Mercedes Salazar

Horizon Handbag

$286

Mercedes Salazar Horizon Handbag is the perfect union of color, structure, and embellishments. The beaded strap is super comfortable and when you open up the envelope-style top, it reads ‘here comes the sun’ — leaning into that optimistic mentality I so strive for on these cold, gray days.

LUISAVIAROMA

Lastframe

$398

To create a monochromatic moment with my pink and red Farm Rio coat, I simply must own this purse. I’m obsessed with its depth of texture and knot details on the handle.