One of the worst parts of summer is the heat combined with the sweat. This may be TMI, but I tend to sweat a lot when I'm outside and since I'm usually carrying around a large multifunctional handbag, things only get progressively worse. That's why I try to make the most of multi-purpose summer bags, so I can lug my stuff around with maximum efficiency. Let's face it: It's just not fun to have to feel like you're melting while carrying 20 pounds on your shoulder.
Summer bags are always fun and worth highlighting, since the season doesn't involve protecting your belongings from rain, snow, sleet, or hail. It's also the time of year that is full of color, which naturally trickles down to the bags on the runways and on the store shelves. Of course, no one wants to look like a bag lady while they're lugging around their entire lives with them, so all of the bags featured here are cute, stylish, and multifunctional — the perfect combination.
If you want to get more use out of your bag this summer or simply want to carry around less while accomplishing more, here are 10 fun summer bags that are multifunctional and cute all at the same time.
1. The Multifunctional Shoulder Bag
Coofit Women Leather Handbags Multifunctional Stereoscopic Shoulder Bag, $32, Amazon
This handbag expands or contracts in shape depending on how much stuff you put in it, which makes it go from day to night or the beach to the bar with ease. I love that it also comes with a shoulder strap, but because of how lightweight it is, it can also be worn on your arm.
2.The Multifunctional Crossbody Bag
Lauren Ralph Lauren Tate Multi Functional Crossbody, $148, Macys
This purse may look one-dimensional, but the inside is designed like a wallet, so you don't have to carry around a separate pouch inside of your bag for your credit cards, ID, and cash. What an ingenious idea!
3. The Canvas Weekender Handbag
Women's Solid Canvas Weekender Handbag with Triangle Print Strap in Coral, $35, Target
This bag is functional enough to use as a messenger bag during the work week, but cute enough to carry to the beach or even to use as an overnight or weekend bag. The thick crossbody strap also makes lugging around your stuff a lot easier on your back and shoulders.
4. The Canvas Hobo
Medium Slouchy Canvas Hobo, $136, Shopbop
This bag works for both poolside and table side, with its sleek yet roomy design. I love the blue and beige color palette on this bag that also makes it the perfect accessory to give your outfit a pop of color or allow you to match the water as you tan on the sand.
5. The Pocket Tote Bag
Women's Printed Trellis Pattern 2 Pocket Tote Bag, $6, Walmart
This bag's massive outside pockets allow you to access your stuff on the go, while also fitting a lot on the inside. The tote is also made of a waterproof material, which makes it perfect for taking to the pool or beach. I love how the pattern on the bag keeps it sophisticated as well, so you could easily use it as a briefcase.
6. The Multifunctional Backpack
Nicole Lee Europe Print Multi-Function Bag, $89, eBags
Isn't this the coolest backpack you've ever seen? I love how the front pocket makes the bag look as though it was painted by hand. It can also be carried multiple ways with the detachable and adjustable straps. That makes this bag great for travel, work, and play; a true triple threat.
7. The Smartphone Charging Wristlet
Mighty Purse Women's Smartphone Charging Wristlet, $99, Amazon
If you're constantly forgetting to bring your iPhone charger or just find that your phone is always dying on the go, you'll love this wristlet from the Handbag Butler. It includes a charger for any Apple product that just requires a simple USB cable to operate. It doesn't get more multifunctional than that.
8. The Charging Crossbody Bag And Wallet
Royal Guard RFID Wristlet Wallet with 3000mAh Charger, 3 RFID Sleeves and Cross-Body Strap, $39, HSN
If you want to carry your wristlet as a purse, this bag allows you to do just that. The inside functions as a wallet, allowing you to store all of your necessities, and also includes a phone charger, as you can see in the picture above. It even comes with a passport sleeve, to really make this tiny bag your perfect travel companion.
9. The Gym Bag And Purse
Reese LuxE Tote, $224, Gym Tote
This line of handbags called GymTotes makes going from the gym to the office easier than ever before. The features on this bag seem to be endless as it contains a back pocket large enough to fit an iPad, mesh containers to put your sweaty gym clothing in, a water bottle pocket, and even a compartment large enough to hold a pair of shoes. This bag will become your new best friend and also give you one less excuse as to why you can't work out before work.
10. The Bucket Bag
Faux Leather Drawstring Bucket Bag, $24, Forever 21
Bucket bags have made a comeback this year and are great for multi-purpose wear! The drawstring and bucket design make its size easy to adjust and the laid back feel allows it to go with you from your lunch date to your girls night out with ease. Also, isn't the idea of carrying around a bucket just riveting? Yet another reason to love this bag.
Images: Fotolia; Courtesy Brands
