As summer draws to an end, we’re all starting to reach for our jackets again, are packing away our trusty sandals, and are shoving our beach bags back into storage.
Nothing screams essential quite like a black bag, it doesn’t matter what the shape or size of it is, it will quite literally go with everything.
While statement bags are always a great way to brighten up your wardrobe and to add a little something to a dull outfit, nothing beats a chic neutral bag.
No matter your budget, there’s always a style that will suit your lifestyle and what you need from a bag.
Be it a practical leather backpack, a stunning handbag perfect for fancy events, or an everyday cross-body, they always look better in black.
Bethan Dadson, a London-based stylist who has worked with the likes of Central Cee and Little Simz said: “Black handbags are essential items, simply because they go with everything! When buying a handbag - especially an expensive one - make sure you consider how much use you’ll get from it, as opposed to a trendy bag that will only match one particular outfit.”
Lily Melrose, a fashion content creator with over 600K followers, tells us: “Black goes with everything and never goes out of style so investing in a black bag that can be worn all year round for multiple occasions is key to setting yourself up for wardrobe success. Bag trends come and go, so picking a style that can be worn casually for a coffee with but also one that can add a sophisticated touch to an outfit is a must!”
She adds: “Black bags are timeless in their nature, with endless versatility, refined and chic. They’re an absolute wardrobe staple for anyone looking to create an effortless wardrobe that works all year round.”
We’ve worked our way through the many black bags on offer and rounded them up for you.
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Apatchy - Black Leather Crossbody Bag
This timeless camera bag from Apatchy is perfect for all occasions, taking you stylishly from day to night.
Made in Italy from supple grained pebble leather, it’s fully lined and features gold hardware with a stylish leather tassel. You can wear on the shoulder or across the body and it will easily accommodate a purse, keys, mobile phone and cosmetics.
It comes delivered in a branded dust bag and includes a detachable and fully adjustable strap in co-ordinating leather as well as a stunning gold chunky chain short shoulder strap.
Buy now £89.00, Apatchy
Radley - Pickering Lane Backpack
The Pickering Lane backpack is almost a total classic design from, its curved shape from Radley, metal loop hardware and inset leather trim are inspired by the details on one of their signature styles.
With soft leather, and multiple pockets inside and out, it’s the ideal backpack for taking to work and carrying plenty of bits around with you.
Of course, it comes with the famous embossed Radley logo, a detachable Scottie dog key fob, and a matching dust bag.
Buy now £229.00, Radley
AllSaints - Colette Leather Crossbody Bag
The Colette is one of AllSaints’ most popular bags, and it’s clear why. The stylish leather crossbody is great for day-to-day use and has a simple, sleek design.
With a main zipped pouch, as well as a smaller pouch at the back, it carries a lot more than you’d think, and the thick leather strap oozes quality.
It has gold metal hardware, as well as an adjustable strap, so you can ensure it’s a comfortable fit.
Buy now £165.00, AllSaints
Cambridge Satchel Company - The Poppy
Based off the style of an old-fashioned doctor’s bag, the Poppy handbag from the Cambridge Satchel Company is a modern take on an old classic.
The brand took a long time to develop this stunning bag, and it’s since become one of their bestsellers.
With a satisfying pushlock closure, the chic black bag has hints of vintage glamour, made with full leather and nickel hardware.
It’s possible to wear the Poppy two ways; either across your body using the adjustable strap, or by holding it by the top handle.
Buy now £180.00, Cambridge Satchel Company
Whistles - Bibi Crossbody Bag
The Bibi bag is one of Whistles’ most famed styles with an easy-to-wear style has been designed with multiple compartments in a lightweight leather, and is perfect for storing essentials in style.
Its adjustable strap can be removed easily if desired, and the silver hardware gives it an elegant touch. At £129, it’s one of the more affordable high-quality bags available.
Buy now £129.00, Whistles
Furla - 1927 Top Handle Mini Nero
If you’re a very classy lady and are after an equally classy handbag, this gorgeous quilted number from Furla is a must-buy.
At just under £400, it’s definitely an investment, but you can instantly feel the quality. The gorgeous mini handbag has a Chanel-type feel to it, made from quilted burnished nappa leather.
The black bag is big enough to hold your phone, purse, keys and lipstick, and is secured witha gorgeous silver twist closure, featuring the distinctive metal Arch logo on its front.
Buy now £395.00, Furla
Casablanca - Jeanne monogram-print shoulder bag
If you have a slightly healthier budget, this gorgeous black and bamboo bag from Casablanca is a stunner,
With gold-tone hardware, bamboo detailing and a monogrammed leather print all over, this is a classy handbag that will take you straight from day to night.
It has a large main compartment accessed via a foldover top, which has a handy internal pocket to hold any loose bits.
Buy now £2520.00, Casablanca
AllSaints - Arena Leather Backpack
Everyone needs a roomy, simple backpack that looks good with everything, and AllSaints has nailed that with the Arena Leather Backpack.
It’s hard to find a backpack which doesn’t look silly with certain outfits, but this one from AllSaints is perfect. It features a huge interior section, with both exterior and interior zip pockets.
It even features a laptop section to keep your prized possession safe on the way to the office.
This backpack’s size is great for travelling and taking on planes, it’s big enough to hold your gym kit and trainers, and all your office bits.
Buy now £229.00, AllSaints
Scotch & Soda - The Jordaan medium crossbody bag
Scotch & Soda’s stunning Jordaan bag has a stylish design and plenty of room, making it that perfect blend of beautiful and practical.
The crossbody design means it’s perfect for everyday use, and looks great with every outfit.
Buy now £180.00, Scotch & Soda
