Things seem to get bigger in January.
We trade in our sleek fall trenches for giant puffy coats, our high-heeled shooties for lug-soled boots, and our pretty party purses for schlep-it-all shoppers.
A big bag is a must when you need to tote extra layers, Kleenex, cough drops and other wintry necessities along with your laptop and kids’ toys. And when you have to go from day to night in a hurry, these roomy carryalls hold every essential, like a change of shoes, an evening clutch and a makeup bag.
Whether you’re looking for a slouchy patterned hobo or a structured satchel with lots of pockets, we’ve found some great bags that will, ahem, carry you through winter and right into spring, should it ever get here.
Steals
Save on bags with trendy patterns or colors by trying to find them on sale or made from less expensive materials like canvas or synthetic leathers. Winter weather can also wreak havoc on bags; should your tote get splashed with grimy slush, it’s not quite as tragic if you didn’t pay a fortune for it.
Deena & Ozzie Architectural Satchel
$68
Urban Outfitters
From the color to the texture to the price, what’s not to love about this structured satchel?
Handbag with chains
On sale for $19.99
Zara
If you’re looking for something more minimalist, this hobo is refreshingly free of pockets and hardware but still has a high impact color.
Flip-Flap Bag
$78
Anthropologie
Thumb your nose at winter with a cheerful floral pattern.
JackNJil Buckle Drawstring Pouch
On sale for $49.99
Nine West
Gold hardware is on trend for spring and gives a fresh vibe of mixed metals when paired with gray.
Splurges
It’s worth it to spend a little more on high quality leather bags in rich neutral shades. They won’t go out of style and will last longer, even if you’re hauling everything plus the kitchen sink.
Damen Bag
$280
Stitch Chicago
By day this tote is spacious and loaded with pockets; by night you can cinch the buckles and remove the shoulder strap to make it more suitably shaped for evening.
Tarnish Turnlock Flap Pocket Leather Shopper
$188
Nordstrom
A winter white bag looks luxurious when paired with dark wool coats, but will also work well with spring’s lighter jackets and dresses.
Pietro Alessandro Medium Foldover
$198
Lori’s Shoes
Use this bag’s top handles or shoulder strap during the day for maximum capacity, then fold it over and wear as a clutch at night.
