As a Paris-based writer, here are the 12 bag styles that French women are embracing this summer — starting at just $19

In Paris, weekends revolve around sunny café terraces and parks, and French fashion evolves with the changing seasons. We’re gradually swapping out puffer jackets and winter wool for airy denim and linen blazers, often adorned with elegantly tied silk scarves. With the arrival of spring, I relish the opportunity to wear dresses without tights and enjoy people-watching, especially to catch glimpses of the summer bag trends emerging.

While enjoying coffee with friends at a favorite spot like Partisan near Le Marais, I’ve noticed that even as temperatures linger in the 50s, everyone is dressing for the warmth we hope for. Women are donning coordinated shorts-and-blazer outfits complemented by camel-hued crossbody bags or canvas bucket bags that serve double duty as beach totes (though currently they're holding a book for reading in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont). In a fashion-forward city like Paris, selecting a bag feels as essential as choosing the right footwear for the day.

This summer, Parisians are swapping their totes and fanny packs for sleek slings, vintage-inspired shoulder bags, and crossbody phone purses that combine style with pickpocket-proof security. From luxurious leather options at Madewell to vibrant top-handle clutches available on Amazon for under $20, these 12 styles capture the essence of summer in France, whether you’re visiting Paris for the Olympics or planning to enjoy beach clubs along the Riviera. 

Everlane The Studio Bag

Much like New York, Paris is a bustling city where you often find yourself on the go all day, with no time to return to your Airbnb or hotel for a quick refresh before your next meal or museum visit. Cotton tote bags—especially these illustrated designs from the iconic bookstore Shakespeare and Company—have become as indispensable as an umbrella or sunglasses. For a more structured option that holds everything you need while still looking chic for dinner, Everlane’s The Studio Bag offers the perfect balance. 

Spacious enough for a 13-inch laptop, this cognac leather bag features a snap closure and an adjustable shoulder strap, ensuring a snug fit by your side. “I've been using this bag daily for weeks. It's the perfect size—fits everything without appearing oversized,” one customer praises. “The leather quality is outstanding, and I haven't noticed any signs of wear. The strap is wide enough that it never digs into my shoulder, even when carrying multiple books and a laptop.” Such high praise for a purse is hard to find.

Bostanten Vegan Leather Crossbody Phone Bag

This clever phone purse is an ultra-smart option, featuring compact crossbody design that neatly organizes everything you need for your Paris trip. The front pocket, cleverly hidden beneath a magnetic snap, accommodates larger models like the iPhone Pro, while the main section offers double zippered pockets, one of which has four built-in card slots. 

Ideal for biking around the city and practically pickpocket-proof on the train or métro, this chic crossbody is budget-friendly and stylish (you'd never guess it's vegan leather!). With over 5,000 glowing reviews, one customer shared, “I bought this for a Caribbean cruise and managed to fit three passports, credit cards, a driver’s license, hotel keycard, car keys, a ship sea pass, and still had space for lipstick, a folded excursion map, receipts, and more.” They added, “It works as a crossbody or shoulder bag, and you can remove the strap to use it as a clutch. I might just get another in a different color.”

Madewell The Sling Crossbody

For a time, sling bags were overshadowed by fanny packs, which are easier to adjust and secure while biking or wandering around. However, Bottega Veneta’s relaxed woven bags have brought the style back in a more fashionable way, and this functional option from Madewell allows you to transition from shoulder to crossbody effortlessly. 

The adjustable strap provides ample support when worn across your body, perfect for a day of sightseeing or cycling through the vineyards of Provence. Additionally, the woven straw material is just right for a summer accessory. “I've received so many compliments in just a week with this bag,” shares one buyer. “And if you're like me and tend to skip the details, surprise — there’s an outside zippered pocket that’s perfect for your phone!” 

Telena Small Leather Sling Bag

Having never embraced a backpack (even as a University of Florida student, I stuck with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote), I’ve always preferred a fanny pack or sling for hands-free convenience while traveling or at music festivals. One of 35 stylish options from Telena, this boho-chic crossbody sling is compact yet spacious enough to hold nearly everything you need, thanks to its multiple organized pockets. An anti-theft pocket on the side keeps cash and IDs secure, while the front compartment features five card slots, letting you leave the bulky wallet behind. 

Even better, the design is reversible, allowing you to wear it comfortably on either side based on your preference. “I didn’t think I would enjoy a front sling bag, but I really do!” enthuses one shopper. “It’s the perfect size, feels high quality, sits comfortably, and is ideal for everyday use or travel — highly recommend.”

Madewell The Essential Mini Bucket Tote

During the summer, I always opt for the lightest bag possible. When I discovered this mini bucket tote from Madewell, I realized I had found my perfect city bag. Featuring a magnetic closure and an interior pocket, this compact version of the classic tote is roomy enough to hold all my essentials (phone, keys, wallet, Glossier lip balm, portable charger), while still maintaining a slim and chic silhouette. 

The bag boasts a structured and elegant silhouette, and its cream hue combined with gold accents exudes that understated luxury vibe everyone is raving about lately (thanks to Succession!). One customer exclaimed, “I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the magnetic closure that keeps my items secure. GET IT NOW if you're after a high-quality everyday bag that pairs well with everything.” 

JW PEI Joy Shoulder Bag

Fashion operates in cycles, and we're now embracing those '90s vibes that we once couldn't wait to leave behind. Personally, I’m having a blast rummaging through my closet (and those of my older friends) to bring back some treasures, like this sleek, curved shoulder bag from JW Pei.

In Paris, this bag transitions effortlessly from day to night, complementing everything from a floral midi button-up dress to fitted jeans paired with a white button-up and blazer. In the evenings, style it with a chic navy dress and strappy heels for a date night look that will have you blending seamlessly into the ambiance of the City of Light.

Sézane Claude Bag

Sézane is one of those French labels that rarely misses the mark. Each collection exudes Parisian charm (and yes, the models really do adore this brand), while the items themselves remain timeless rather than trendy. These staples will stay stylish for years to come, and they’re built to endure that long, too. (Additionally, T+L editors are fans of the brand.)

This half-moon shoulder bag is my favorite leather piece for summer. Generously sized yet not bulky, the vintage-inspired periwinkle-blue bag can be worn crossbody or on the shoulder. It features an interior and exterior patch pocket, along with a zippered pocket to keep your valuables safe. Crafted in Italy, it comes with an adjustable leather strap and a light gold metal clasp. This smooth cowhide-leather purse is sleek yet sturdy enough for books, notebooks, and other essentials for a day out. Plus, this model can even be personalized with a gold monogram on the back — voilà, an ideal gift for that friend who seems to have it all.

Zara Mesh Bucket Bag

The French have a knack for turning even a simple mesh grocery bag into a stylish accessory. In the summer, these bags often double as beach totes, filled with Turkish towels and espadrilles. This bucket bag from Zara takes the classic household item and elevates it with a chic design. It features an interior fabric lining and a drawstring closure, with adjustable buckles on the sides of the strap, transforming it from a casual carry-all into a fashionable purse — perfect for transporting fresh produce from the morning marché in Paris.

If you need an affordable beach bag that can be shipped quickly before your next getaway, check out this $14 mesh tote at Amazon. It’s become a hit, with over 3,000 sold last month alone. With more than 6,500 perfect reviews and an impressive 4.7 rating, it’s been thoroughly vetted by customers.

Jiechengjophoo Mini Top-Handle Crossbody

Recently, I’ve noticed a trend on the métro where purses are getting miniaturized — just big enough to hold AirPods, lip gloss, and a couple of credit cards. This tangerine top handle clutch offers a chic way to keep your essentials organized, and the best part? You won’t need to rummage to find them. The faux croc texture gives this cute coin purse an upscale appearance, and at under $20, it’s an affordable addition that brings a cheerful splash of color to signal that summer is finally here.

Having only recently embraced colors beyond neutrals, I find myself drawn to this vibrant shade, reminiscent of Hermès orange, for everything from dresses to bags. “It's sooo cute — the perfect ‘leave your purse at home’ kind of clutch for date nights,” raves one shopper. Another adds: “I have a Michael Kors orange purse and wallet, and this color matches beautifully! This purse is fantastic quality for the price and is beautifully crafted.” 

J.Crew Berkeley Bucket Bag

A bucket bag is a classic accessory that should be part of your handbag collection, and what I adore about summer in Europe is how canvas becomes the go-to fabric for the season — and this particular piece is one of the most stylish I’ve come across. With cognac-colored leather accents, contrasting stripes down each side, and a straightforward tie closure, this bucket bag offers structure without bulk — and it’s spacious enough to carry a laptop or books comfortably. 

The oar-shaped accents at the base of the handles harken back to the brand’s labels from the ‘80s and ‘90s, adding a refined, vintage charm. You can even personalize it with a gold or silver foil monogram stamp. I’m excited to pair this with a trench coat and sailor jeans in late spring or with patterned Zimmermann shorts and a light linen top in summer when I’m in Nice and Cannes. Plus, it offers a more budget-friendly option compared to high-end designer bags from Saint Laurent and Celine. 

JW PEI Aylin Canvas & Quinn Vegan Leather Cell Phone Crossbody Bag

You may have noticed the trend of phone bags and an abundance of canvas, and this chic crossbody, which is endorsed by Oprah, elegantly merges both styles. Crafted from textured canvas with black leather accents and a vegan leather back, it features ample credit card slots, a phone pocket secured with a snap closure, and an exterior hook for your keys.  “This bag is sturdy and well-crafted,” a shopper noted. “It’s practical yet stylish for life on the go.”

During the summer, when you want to keep things light, this sleek crossbody won't weigh you down as you ride along the Brittany coast or wander through the medieval villages of Provence. Additionally, it fits easily into a larger travel tote, making it simple to locate your phone and essentials while flying. You can also find it in a brown version, which appears to be the must-have color for summer 2024.

Rouje Small Leather Bibi Bag

This vintage-inspired piece from the effortlessly chic brand Rouje is an ideal summer essential that pairs beautifully with flowing dresses and wedges, a bikini and knitted cover-up, or even a more polished look like wide-leg jeans, a tailored linen blazer, and micro kitten heels. With adjustable straps for shoulder or crossbody wear, this timeless bag is one I’ll always cherish — perfect for travel as it’s compact and structured enough to fit neatly in a carry-on without getting squished.