The Best Bag Materials for Summer

When temperatures rise in the summertime, you’ll likely want to ditch thick, heavy fabrics in favor of lighter, breezier alternatives when getting dressed. After all, it’s the season to soak up the warm weather and enjoy activities outside—from pool days and beach hangs to dining al fresco. Your bag(s) can be summer-ready, too, thanks to certain materials that are perfect for sunny occasions. Because while leather is a year-round essential, it’s fun to switch it up.

Read on for our guide to the best bag materials for summer.

Woven straw is naturally lightweight and has a beautiful, textural feel. It’s easy and comfortable to carry, making it the ultimate material for all-day use. Whether you’re catching the breeze on a boardwalk or enjoying a city adventure, a straw bag evokes summer style no matter where you are or what you’re doing. You could be far from the beach or any vacation destination, and a straw bag will instantly give you that summer-getaway feel. Plus, with many of our bestselling silhouettes available in straw, there’s a style that will suit you perfectly—no matter where you are.

Straw Bag Picks: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag, Teri Mini Crossbody Bag, City Tote Bag, Emily Shoulder Bag, Nolita 19

An enduring symbol of American cool, denim is a material that truly never goes out of style. Its carefree attitude and effortless versatility make it a summertime favorite—you can pair denim with pretty much anything and everything without overthinking it. In hot weather, a denim bag feels comfortable against your skin because of its softer, more breathable composition. It’s also lightweight, making it a practical pick for when you’re on the go. Whether you dress it up or down, a denim bag makes any outfit look refreshed for summer.

Denim Bag Picks: Tabby Shoulder Bag, Nolita 19, Taylor Backpack, Teri Mini Crossbody Bag

Signature canvas is a timeless favorite as far as Coach materials go. Beloved for its iconic Signature pattern that complements any sense of style, this material is ready for any day of the year. But what makes it particularly appropriate for summer is how lightweight it is. Whether you’re running between activities or gallivanting on a trip, a Signature canvas bag always keeps up without weighing you down. Its sturdy durability is also a major benefit—a Signature canvas bag is crafted for real life. You won’t feel the need to be precious with it or save it for special occasions. And when it comes time to clean it, all you’ll need to do is wipe it down with a damp or dry cloth. For all your adventures this summer and beyond, a Signature canvas bag will not let you down.

Signature Canvas Bag Picks: Plaza Bag, Barrel Bag, Teri Shoulder Bag, City Tote Bag

A special kind of leather, suede is extra soft and luxurious. Dry summer days lend themselves well to this material—just try not to expose your bag to water, which can damage suede. While pool days and beach trips are therefore not suede-friendly, there are plenty of summer occasions well-suited for a suede bag. Take it out to dinner. Bring it to a party. Wear it to a wedding. Carry it while doing errands. A good suede bag is surprisingly versatile and guaranteed to elevate your look.

Suede Bag Picks: Empire Carryall Bag, Quilted Tabby Bag, Chelsea Shoulder Bag, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag, Lana Shoulder Bag

In scorching summer heat or when you have all-day plans, the last thing you want to do is lug around a heavy bag. Enter: Signature nylon. Donning our iconic Cs, this ultra lightweight material makes carrying things easier and breezier. It’s a practical and durable fabric that’s great for casual occasions and outdoor adventures. And because it’s flexible and slim, a nylon bag is ideal for packing while traveling or storing away when not in use. It’s a foolproof essential to keep on your summertime rotation.

Signature Nylon Bag Picks: Logan Backpack, Leo Crossbody Bag, Lachlan Sling Bag