All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
While there is merit to going hands-free with a crossbody silhouette or belt bag, there’s something to be said about the best top-handle bags—a good old-fashioned piece to be carried with (drumroll, please) your hands.
The best top-handles span several categories, from petite party purses and charming bucket bags to structured shapes and elegant satchels. The common thread of an upright handle makes the art of carrying your handbag feel intentional. (And perhaps a bit more fun?)
This season, you can expect some standout options in the category. For professional pursuits, there are elegant envelope bags crafted with top handles from the likes of The Row and Saint Laurent. There’s also a crop of party-ready design details making their way forward, with beading, crystal, and bow embellishments. You’ll also have your pick of refreshed classics—such as the East West silhouette—that check off the “polished style” box quite nicely. Ahead, 48 options to add to your 2024 wardrobe.
The Best Top-Handle Bags
- The Envelope: DeMellier Montreal bag, $595
- The East West: The Row Idaho tote, $2,750
- The Croc Effect: JW Pei Fae top handle crossbody, $89
- The Party Bag: Staud Crescent mini paillette handbag, $251
- The Bucket: Longchamp Épure bucket bag, $385
- The Woven: Hat Attack Gia mini bag, $170
- The Lady Bag: Khaite Lilith evening bag, $2,200
- The Tote: Tory Burch petite Lee Radziwill double bag, $598
The Envelope
A structured envelope purse is the bedrock of polished, professional style. Head into the office with a top-handle bag designed with this elegant closure—bonus points if it bears a hint of sleek hardware.
The East West
A horizontally-shaped bag feels especially polished when designed with a top-handle silhouette. Bring yours along to a lunch appointment in place of the everyday tote.
The Croc Effect
The clever ingenuity of croc-embossed leather translates to the top-handle silhouette with some of the season s most charming handbag releases. Reach for brightly-hued versions for a fête-ready staple, or pick a neutral for a pared-back look.
The Party Bag
Skip the shoulder straps for a festive night out and reach for a top-handle bag to pair with your party look. Crystals, beading, bows, and beyond—the best ones offer a glimmer of texture.
The Bucket
Is there anything more charming than a bucket bag designed in a round lunch-pail shape? With its built-in top handle, a weekend stroll—arms swinging—feels in order.
The Woven
Straw bags are the perfect gateway to warm-weather escapes, and because this woven texture works so beautifully with a petite top-handle shape, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the category.
The Lady
As its moniker suggests, this handbag is imbued with a feminine, whimsical spirit. Carry yours to a cocktail party or to contrast a more tailored look, the lady bag is more versatile than you might think.
The Tote
Swap out your shoulder strap tote for one with top handles—the overall look will feel a tad more refined while still being able to carry the day’s more needed essentials.
