Summer Essentials: Tote Your Gear in Style

Suntan lotion, beach towels, beach pass, visor, sunglasses, extra change of clothes, swim diapers, bathing suit, pool toys, sneakers and an inflatable volleyball. No, we aren’t listing the menu items from Rent’s “La Vie Boheme.” We’re listing what you most likely have to cram into a bag on any ordinary day during the summer.

The pretty little yellow handbag or the bright pink purse from a street sale simply are not going to cut it.

A large tote is absolutely required for all summer needs. However, the dilemma arises of how to accomplish such a task, while avoiding the dreaded “frumpy” label. Mommies everywhere will be happy to know that Target offers a Gerber 4 in 1 Diaper Bag in brown/pink and brown/blue combinations.

Don’t have any kids but you still pack a bag as though you had five? Consider the stylish Rockland Duffle Bag for a quick weekend getaway or a long day spent at the beach followed by cocktails and dancing at night. A smaller, though still stylish and convenient bag is the Bueno Leopard Travel Bag. While the style won’t take even the lightest of packers through a vacation packing session, it will hold beach or pool needs for the day.

While space and practicality are two major components of summer bag shopping, chances are you will not be spending the whole summer lugging around your entire wardrobe, medicine cabinet and book shelf. Weddings, barbecues and nights out on the Nautical Mile will absolutely require a bag that is chic and much more slender.

The Angie and Lola Small Flower Tote keeps you classy, while also bringing out a burst of summer shine in the bold, yellow floral arrangement. At DSW, browse the immense array of gorgeous clutches. Stand out at a party with the entirely unique Urban Expressions Heart Clutch or with bright bursts of florals in the Lulu Townsend Rosette Frame Clutch.

Of course, as is generally the case, a middle ground exists. Lunch dates and leisurely strolls through the park require neither an elegant evening bag nor a robust tote. Try the Poppie Jones Ruffle Crossbody Bag to channel the nautical waves or the Poppie Jones Ruffle Tote to mix a little bit of glitz and glam with your picnic basket.  

Don’t forget to check out the clearance section of your favorite shops, as they often have sales that will be gone before you know it.