Beaded bags: A little something extra for the very extra season ahead

Nothing said summer 2018 like the straw bags everyone was toting around. But if you're looking for fall and winter's equivalent, stop your search at the vintage-inspired beaded bag. The ladylike, quirky accessory was hanging off the arms of everyone darting in and out of fashion week this past season, including Alyssa Coscarelli, Courtney Trop and Babba C Rivera. A lot of those influencers and editors nabbed theirs from brands like the always off-beat U.K.-based Shrimps, who produced several beaded bags for their fall/winter collection. A few others went with New York designer Susan Alexandra, who skyrocketed to fame over the past year thanks to her cheery and bright beaded bags. And summer superstar Cult Gaia updated their beloved wicker bags with beaded handles for fall 2018. If you want to get in on the action, scroll on for ten cute options.

'90s-inspired mini shoulder bags are making a comeback this season. Get that trendy design in a classic black-and-white colour combo with this beaded purse. It'll go with everything from a camel coat and jeans to your favourite little black dress.

Bicolor Beaded Bag, $79.99, mango.com

Another trend that summer 2018 brought was the clear, plastic tote. This one takes that transparency into the new season with its star-shaped, clear beadwork. Swap out the pink pouch for a black one if you want to go more neutral, or keep it minimal with no insert at all.

ASOS Design Beaded Boxy Clutch bag with Removable Contrast Pouch, $94.68, asos.com

Fashion girls accessorized with Cult Gaia's Ark bag this summer, making it one of the it bags of the season. For fall, the L.A.-based brand added an oversized, beaded strap to their round Luna bag, another design destined for massive popularity.

Cult Gaia Luna Bamboo Shoulder Bag, about $287.92 CAD, net-a-porter.com

If your go-to handbag for holiday parties is a little, sparkly clutch, this one is the perfect update. The iridescent black beads are still festive, but the miniature tote design is more elevated – and easier to carry.

Beaded Mini Tote, $75.98, freepeople.com

Pink keeps on persisting, season after season. But if you're not into the punchier tones, like fuchsia or neon pink, go with a softer pastel shade, like the transparent beads that make up this bag.

Beaded Shoulder Bag, $42, urbanoutfitters.com

Shrimps is known for their whimsical designs, and this beaded bag is no different. Almost like a giant piece of jewelry, it could easily be the focus of your outfit. Or, go all out and pair it with more oversized, gold accessories.   

Shrimps Antonia Bag, $914.41 (on sale for $640.09), shopbop.com

With a similar design to the Shrimps bag, this pearlescent one is custom made for every buyer, so you can change the colour of the satin lining.

Ritzy Blue Pearl Bag, $196.85, etsy.ca

This candy-coloured bag is named after Alexandra's sister, who loves jellybeans, and the shape is supposed to mimic a novelty cocktail glass. FYI: All of her bags are handmade with more than 1,500 beads, so it can take up to eight weeks to complete an order.

The Janie Bag, about $412.22 CAD, susanalexandra.com

Fully lined with a zipper closure, this purse is one of the more functional beaded bags on the market. Wear it with jeans and a blazer to add some texture, or with a floral dress to give your outfit an edge.

TopShop Metallic Beaded Shoulder Bag, $75.56, nordstrom.com

If you're up for making a statement, this bright bag will undoubtedly do the trick. Go monochrome and wear it with a fuchsia dress, or let it be the pop of colour for an otherwise neutral outfit.

Beaded Mini Shopper, $49.90, zara.com

Tara MacInnis is a Toronto-based writer and editor with a deep love for lipstick, jumpsuits and dogs. Follow her on Instagram @tara_macinnis.