A jolt of red can infuse any outfit with a potent dose of drama. Evocative of royalty, passion, and intensity, the fiery shade arguably packs a more powerful punch than any other hue. Ultimately, the power of a bold red piece is most popular in small, homeopathic doses, which is why red shoes and handbags are so commanding. If you’re looking for a strong pop of color to carry into 2024, we’ve got you covered: Read on to learn all about the trend, complete with 16 of our favorite red handbags to shop.
About the Trend
The fever for all things scarlet, cherry, and tomato red isn’t going anywhere—the hyper-saturated color appeared on nearly every runway in 2023—and a handbag is a simple, high-impact brush with which you can paint the town red. Red, from orange-tinged brick to zingy lipstick shades to deep ruby and moody merlot, will always demand attention and stir emotion, so it’s no wonder that the trend has proven to have major staying power across everything from TikTok to street style to luxury editorials.
Aside from shoes and other accessories, red handbags are definitively one of the most popular ways to bring the heat to your wardrobe, and so many brands right now are designing statement-making purses sure to turn heads on all your adventures. (While you’re at it, check out some of our favorite designer crossbody bags.) Whether you’re looking for an everyday shoulder bag, an investment piece (red is timeless), a romantic evening clutch, or a cartoonishly cute patent case, keep scrolling to discover 16 of the best red handbags to shop right now.
The Best Red Handbags to Shop
Scrunched Up
Proenza Schouler Mini Drawstring Leather Top-Handle Bag $990.00
This cherry-red handbag’s handle—a scrunch of leather fastened between two knotted drawstrings—is incredibly satisfying. This far-from-boring bag is the perfect way to upgrade an otherwise understated quiet luxury look.
Longtime Love
Marimekko Karla Shoulder Bag $310.00
Inspired by the elongated form of a candy wrapper, this orangey tomato red sling bag has an adjustable strap, so you can style it in a myriad of ways.
Roses Are Red
Puppets and Puppets Red Small Rose Bag $545.00 $251.00
This square-frame oxblood piece is ideal for date nights, adorned with a tough yet romantic rosette—another trend that’s still going strong since emerging last summer.
Tried and True
Longchamp Large Le Pliage Shoulder Tote $155.00
The classic-for-a-reason Le Pliage is an ideal work bag or travel carry-on. Whether you're a Longchamp fan already or looking for a way to give style a try in a fresh way, this red handbag is an ideal everyday statement.
All Tied Up
Brandon Blackwood Madison Bag $280.00
If you're looking for the ideal red handbag for warm-weather adventures, this fun knotted pick from Brandon Blackwood brings the heat. We like that it gives a mesh look while still having a fully opaque base.
Wired In
Sportmax Medium Leather Caju Bag $965.00
The rounded silver orbit handle of this vegetable-tanned bright leather bag has the vibes of a giant bracelet. It’s sleek, playful, and simultaneously vintage-inspired and futuristic.
Suede Brigade
The Row Abby Bag in Suede $1,450.00
This ‘90s minimalism-inspired brick-toned suede handbag is a brilliantly subdued alternative to more audacious red bags. You can easily dress it up or down, making for a worthy investment that will never feel stiff.
Feathered Fun
Brother Vellies Lijadu Bird Bag $1,500.00
While the base of this bag is gray, the star of the show is the stunning red feathered strap, which certainly won't go unnoticed whether you wear it to a party or for a fun day out. It's removable, too, so you have a statement and an understated bag in one.
Micro Moment
Mulberry Micro Bayswater $455.00
This glossy micro-mini purse is a testament to the fact that small things are immensely powerful. Visible metal hardware is trending, and this beloved style centers around a silver padlock.
Work It
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag $795.00
Red has been scientifically proven to garner attention and stimulate excitement and energy, so having a stunning red work bag on your desk will—we presume—enhance your performance. This croc bag is ideal for carrying your office essentials because there’s four ways to wear it (top handle, shoulder bag, crossbody, and backpack), plus it’s chic enough to take from the office to dinner. We’ve also rounded up a few other favorite work bags for all those looking.
Market Day
Marni Market Love Basket Bag $215.00
Enliven a trip to the farmers’ market with this hand-woven, mini-checkered shopper. It’s a little early to be planning our spring break wardrobes, but would make a great beach bag if you have a winter getaway planned.
Heart of Red
Maria La Rosa Heart Ribbon Minaudere $246.00
Shaped clutches are having a moment, and this tomato and silver woven ribbon number will make every evening out feel endlessly romantic. If you’re searching for a Valentine’s Day clutch, look no further.
Sculptural Scarlet
Salvatore Ferragamo Prisma Medium Geometric Shoulder Bag $2,087.00 $1,603.00
With its sharp angular form, lipstick-red patent leather, and silver kiss closure, this bag is a knockout. Sculptural details are another big trend right now, so you're sure to impress.
Pleats for Days
Lulu Guinness Lulu Red Satin Small Cleo Handbag $255.00
The clear acrylic bangle handles, folding croissant form, and pleated silk make this on-trend red handbag a textural treat.
Golden Seal
Dooney & Bourke Florentine Logo Lock Shoulder Bag $548.00 $319.00
This roomy, slouchy leather bag is undeniably cheerful thanks to its warm scarlet shade. It’s casual enough for day-to-day wear, and the golden lock sets it apart in a way that's luxe yet not overpowering.
Coquette Forever
Comme des Garçons Girl Bow Flute Patent-Finish Tote Bag $410.00
Bows are still—and rapidly—taking over the entire world, and this cherry-red patent leather zip case looks like something that Minnie Mouse would carry. It works for both day and night, and it’s undeniably and seriously cute.
