STYLE
How To: Choose Your Signature Bag
Express your own personal style day in and day out with a trademark accessory you won’t want to put down.
- When you find your dream bag—one that perfectly blends form and function for your everyday life—it often naturally becomes your go-to, signature style.
- Read on for how to choose a bag that feels right for you, plus style recommendations.
There’s a perfect bag style out there for everyone—one that naturally blends into your wardrobe, helps you express your personal style and just feels right every time you wear it. Once you find your dream handbag, chances are you won’t want to put it down. That’s when you know you’ve found your trademark accessory.
If you’re still on the search for your signature bag, consider the below qualities before making an investment and read on for a few of our favorite style recommendations.
How to Choose a Signature Bag
Evaluate Lifestyle
What do you carry on a day-to-day basis? Your signature bag should make your life easier, taking on anything and everything the day throws your way. For example, if you’re someone who always has their laptop or a good book on them at all times, you might want to go with a larger carryall. On the other hand, if you travel light—phone, keys and wallet only—a mini bag should do the trick.
Consider Wardrobe
Think about the colors, fabrics and patterns you wear most often. How can your signature bag complement—rather than clash—with all your go-to looks? You should feel comfortable wearing your everyday bag with pretty much anything in your closet, which means it should be versatile. Neutrals are always a safe choice; however, bold, statement-worthy bags can still become your trademark accessory, depending on your personal style.
Prioritize Craftsmanship
For a bag to be considered your “signature” style, it needs to last for years and years to come. That’s where durability comes into play. From leather to coated canvas to denim and beyond, there are plenty of bag materials that are durable and dependable—so long as they’re expertly crafted. For a style that only gets better with time (developing rich patina), choose a classic leather bag. For a waterproof, easygoing style, go with a bag in coated canvas. When you prioritize high-quality craftsmanship, your signature bag will last through all stages of your life, evolving and adapting to your personal style.
What do you carry on a day-to-day basis? Your signature bag should make your life easier, taking on anything and everything the day throws your way. For example, if you’re someone who always has their laptop or a good book on them at all times, you might want to go with a larger carryall. On the other hand, if you travel light—phone, keys and wallet only—a mini bag should do the trick.
Consider Wardrobe
Think about the colors, fabrics and patterns you wear most often. How can your signature bag complement—rather than clash—with all your go-to looks? You should feel comfortable wearing your everyday bag with pretty much anything in your closet, which means it should be versatile. Neutrals are always a safe choice; however, bold, statement-worthy bags can still become your trademark accessory, depending on your personal style.
Prioritize Craftsmanship
For a bag to be considered your “signature” style, it needs to last for years and years to come. That’s where durability comes into play. From leather to coated canvas to denim and beyond, there are plenty of bag materials that are durable and dependable—so long as they’re expertly crafted. For a style that only gets better with time (developing rich patina), choose a classic leather bag. For a waterproof, easygoing style, go with a bag in coated canvas. When you prioritize high-quality craftsmanship, your signature bag will last through all stages of your life, evolving and adapting to your personal style.
Signature Bag Style Recommendations
Tabby
The icon for everyone, the Tabby blends timeless craftsmanship with an on-trend point of view. Designed with individuality in mind, the Tabby comes in a wide variety of colors, sizes and materials (pebbled leather, denim and natural grain leather, to name a few). Built to become future vintage, the Tabby is the ultimate investment bag.
Style Picks: Tabby Shoulder Bag 20, Tabby Shoulder Bag 26 in Regenerative Cotton Denim, Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
Brooklyn
When it comes to signature style, the Brooklyn is an effortless choice for those who prefer to confidently set trends rather than follow them. With plenty of space for the essentials (and more), the Brooklyn’s slouchy and relaxed silhouette lends itself well to everyday life—meant to move with you all day long.
Style Picks: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 34, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39
Teri
Classic yet always in style, the Teri is inspired by our iconic ’90s bags and reimagined for today. Built to adapt to your everchanging style, the Teri functions as a timeless supporting act, fitting into any wardrobe, at any moment. Style the Teri as a crossbody for hands-free travel and shopping days or wear it over your shoulder for weekend hangouts and post-work happy hour.
Style Picks: Teri Mini Crossbody, Teri Shoulder Bag
Nolita
Don’t be fooled by its charmingly small frame—the Nolita is a compact yet impactful style companion that works however you need it. Wear it as a mini shoulder bag, stylish wristlet or even pack it inside your larger carryall as a bag pouch for added organization. It’s a little but limitless choice you’ll never run out of uses for.
Style Picks: Nolita 19, Nolita 19 in Signature Canvas
The icon for everyone, the Tabby blends timeless craftsmanship with an on-trend point of view. Designed with individuality in mind, the Tabby comes in a wide variety of colors, sizes and materials (pebbled leather, denim and natural grain leather, to name a few). Built to become future vintage, the Tabby is the ultimate investment bag.
Style Picks: Tabby Shoulder Bag 20, Tabby Shoulder Bag 26 in Regenerative Cotton Denim, Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
Brooklyn
When it comes to signature style, the Brooklyn is an effortless choice for those who prefer to confidently set trends rather than follow them. With plenty of space for the essentials (and more), the Brooklyn’s slouchy and relaxed silhouette lends itself well to everyday life—meant to move with you all day long.
Style Picks: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 34, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39
Teri
Classic yet always in style, the Teri is inspired by our iconic ’90s bags and reimagined for today. Built to adapt to your everchanging style, the Teri functions as a timeless supporting act, fitting into any wardrobe, at any moment. Style the Teri as a crossbody for hands-free travel and shopping days or wear it over your shoulder for weekend hangouts and post-work happy hour.
Style Picks: Teri Mini Crossbody, Teri Shoulder Bag
Nolita
Don’t be fooled by its charmingly small frame—the Nolita is a compact yet impactful style companion that works however you need it. Wear it as a mini shoulder bag, stylish wristlet or even pack it inside your larger carryall as a bag pouch for added organization. It’s a little but limitless choice you’ll never run out of uses for.
Style Picks: Nolita 19, Nolita 19 in Signature Canvas
Discover even more styles you’ll love.
FAQs: You asked. We’ve answered.
What bag color will go best with a bold, patterned wardrobe?
What bag color will go best with a bold, patterned wardrobe?
If no color or pattern is off limits in your wardrobe, you’ll want to choose an adaptable bag—one that plays well with everything from dramatic, moody hues to pretty pastels and lively patterns. Thankfully, the neutral colors of today are anything but boring. Try hues like creamy ivory, honey brown or maple for the perfect plus-one that won’t steal the show.
What bag color will go best with a neutral-colored wardrobe?
What bag color will go best with a neutral-colored wardrobe?
Neutral-colored wardrobes are extremely versatile. For a sleek, monochromatic look, pair neutrals with more neutrals—just don’t be afraid to mix and match textures for added visual depth. If you want to inject a pop of color via your bag, the possibilities are endless. Choose a bold shade like candy apple red, peony or merlot or make a statement with a striking pattern like checkerboard or cherry print.
What are the different ways I can accessorize my bag?
What are the different ways I can accessorize my bag?
Straps, charms and keychains are the on-trend way to transform any bag without making permanent changes. For a dressier look, try our chain-link designs or stands of pearls. For a personality-filled choice, explore our variety of charms. Check out our guide to accessorizing for more unique ways to personalize your bag.