The One Bag Trend You'll See Everyone Carrying on the Street

(Image credit: Design by Morgan McMullen)

published 30 April 2019

There's a compelling reason for the beaded bag's resurgence (opens in new tab): It elevates any outfit with a splash that's equal parts edgy and playful. Accessories designer Susan Alexandra (opens in new tab) led this revival of everyone's favorite '90s bag last year and now other retailers have caught on to the trend as well. You'll find beaded bags come in a vary of silhouettes, colors, and prices, from a $300 Loeffler Randall option to a $60 version at Topshop. Everyone can wear the trend this season, so I set off to find the best beaded bags on the market. Without further ado, here are 15 options to complement your spring/summer outfits.

1/15

Susan Alexandra Ma Cherie Beaded Tote Bag

Cult Favorite

New York-based designer Susan Alexandra's name has become synonymous with the beaded bag trend, thanks to her cherry-embossed tote. Handmade by women artisans in NY, this statement piece is as playful as beaded bags come.

2/15

Urban Outfitters Orange and Wooden Beaded Handbag

This top-handle beaded number is vacation vibes in the form of a handbag. Made with neutral woven wood and orange beads, the accessory will look especially chic with a backdrop of palm trees or set next to your mimosa at brunch.

3/15

Sensi Studio Mini Leopard Beaded Bucket Bag

This top-handle bag checks off so many of spring 2019's best trends (opens in new tab). Leopard print? Check. Micro size? Check. Top handle? Check again. Beads? Say it with me, check.

4/15

Zara Multicolored Beaded Shopper Bag

Great Deal

Zara's multicolored beaded shopper bag can hold everything you need for an Instagrammable, warm-weathered afternoon: your sunglasses, wallet, a grapefruit, and that book you've been meaning to finish.

5/15

Cult Gaia Wooden Beaded Clutch

Featuring a natural, woody palette and a top-handle shape, this clutch will be your go-to for adding a pinch of style to casual outfits. It's a savvy choice for beachside strolls or backyard weddings.

6/15

Shrimps Prairie Faux-Pearl Beaded Bag

UK-based brand Shrimps, designed by Hannah Weiland, has also been a pioneer behind the beaded bag revival. I especially love this wearable piece of art from her spring 2019 collection. The graphic landscape captures the loveliness of a countryside afternoon.

7/15

Topshop Goldie Beaded Grab Bag

Topshop's acrylic beaded pouch is for those who plan on bar hopping Friday nights and want a bag to hold the necessities, but not get in the way of dancing. This tiny pouch is perfect for concealing your keys, wallet, lipstick, and more. Now your items won't tumble into your Uber Pool's dark floor on the way home.

8/15

Ganni Monticello Sequin Embellished Bag

Ganni's beaded cacti are subtle ways to tap into the western trend without incorporating the cowboy boot motif. The sequin-and-beaded pouch is a playful accessory to any outfit, especially with jeans. Editorial note: I own many cacti and overuse the cactus emoji daily, so I will be getting this bag.

9/15

Loeffler Randall Beaded Satin Shoulder Bag

Most Versatile

Loeffler Randall's functional beaded shoulder bag is spacious and practical. The "Roz" style is especially suited for women who, like myself, prefer running errands with a supply of everything they need for unexpected hurdles. (We're talking space for a back-up charger, a 60mL skincare product, a wallet, and a sunglasses case.) Of all the bright colors this season, this orange hue is the most foolproof as it easily works in lieu of tan in ways that pinks and greens cannot.

10/15

Lovers + Friends Beaded Bag in Matte Pink

This Elle Woods-approved bubble gum-colored bag is 100 percent shoulder candy. Pair this beaded confection with your animal print outfit of choice for a look that, in the best possible way, feels somewhere between Milan fall 2019 and Paris Hilton circa 2005.

11/15

Urban Outfitters Light Blue Mini Beaded Bag

Great Deal

Here, a miniature baby blue number for occasions when you technically don't need to carry a bag, but will inevitably be photographed and want something cute to do with your arms. Swing it back and forth for that boomerang shot or place it on your lap for a "candid" I'm-drinking-coffee-and-look-cute snap.

12/15

Lovers + Friends Yellow Beaded Purse

If you're looking to lean into the neon color palettes dominating spring 2019 (opens in new tab), here's an adorable shoulder bag option. It's just big enough to hold your phone and cardholder. The highlighter yellow will add an energetic splash to any poolside attire.

13/15

Moschino Heart-Shaped Crossbody Bag

Moschino didn't just create a bold red bag, he amped it up with a heart-shape silhouette. The accessory has a thin silver crossbody chain and a zipper closure, necessary details for those who don't want to pick between practicality and style.

14/15

Susan Alexandra I Love NY Beaded Tote Bag

Sensi Studio Beaded Straw Bucket Bag

Sensi Studio's bucket bag is handwoven from toquilla straw and strung with wooden beads. It has that beachside souvenir vibe, except you don't have to travel far to get it. Just place your order with Moda and wait several business days for it to arrive at your doorstep. Wear with a puff-sleeve white Mara Hoffman dress (opens in new tab).

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Jaimie Potters is the Commerce Content Manager at Hearst Magazines Digital Media, where she covers fashion, beauty, tech and more.