As the spring/summer season rolls on, we want to take a look at a key wardrobe staple for this and every season - the handbag.
Whether you prefer a bag that can hold everything, or you find yourself reaching for a statement bag that is more about style than practicality, we’ll be tapping into the key handbag trends for SS26, with the styles available in McElhinneys luxury hall.
The Slouchy Shoulder Bag
Starting with my personal fave, the Shoulder bag, which Vogue declared this season as ‘The Slouchier, The Better’, this is one of the standout shapes of Spring/Summer.
We love this woven shoulder bag from Guess, which we are dying to add to our wardrobes, with its fabulous pop of colour and cool pattern.
The Cobalt Clutch
Next up, we have the Cobalt Clutch, which is our colour of the season.
Bold, saturated and impossible to ignore, we see a lot of cobalt in our store at current, especially in our Joseph Ribkoff range in womenswear.
Our top pick of the Cobalt trend is this clutch bag from Emis, which is perfect for your next event.
The New Tote Bag
The humble tote bag has a stylish upgrade this season with this shopper bag from Ralph Lauren.
Perfect for those of us who carry our whole lives with us everywhere we go, or those looking to pack light for a weekend away.
This tote is reliable and spacious, and that's why we love it!
Woven Wonders
Woven motifs are so hot on the runway this season and we're now seeing these woven styles in accessories.
As we leave winter behind us and approach the warmer months, we crave new textures to awaken our wardrobe. There’s something about intricate weaves that instantly adds dimension, warmth, and character to an outfit, and we especially love this charming crossbody from Guess.
In short, SS26 proves that bags are no longer just finishing touches; they’re the foundation of the look.
From the relaxed ease of the shoulder bag to the bold confidence of cobalt, this season is all about personality and purpose.
Whether oversized and slouchy or compact and refined, each style offers a fresh way to express your wardrobe. One thing is certain: in SS26, the right bag doesn’t just complete an outfit — it defines it.
Until next time,
Emer



