Thursday, November 30, 2023

23 Black Purses That Are Versatile & Anything But Basic

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Much like a little black dress, everyone should have a black purse in their wardrobe. It’s timeless, versatile, and the perfect staple for no-fuss accessorizing. Whether it’s the most casual everyday tote or the fanciest occasion bag, a black style will go with almost everything and serve you time and time again. So whether you’re searching for a black crossbody purse for running daily errands or a black tote to bring to the office, we’ve got you covered with styles that are anything but boring. They also happen to include the top handbag trends this year (i.e. top handles, woven fabrics, scoop tops, and forever pieces).

From classic shapes and timeless fabrics to unique sizes and trendy hardware, find some of the best black purses to add to your winter wardrobe.

Black Shoulder Bags

Shoulder bags are the perfect arm candy for elevating your night-out outfits. They may be on the smaller size, but their style can be impactful and the cherry on top of your look. We love black shoulder bags, and personally love baguette bags, and how they make us nostalgic for Y2K style. To amp up your black purse, play with texture by choosing high-quality, genuine pebbled or polished leathers or more affordable vegan leathers, nylon, and corduroy.

Black Crossbody Purses

Everyone needs a tried-and-true crossbody purse as a companion to get you through the day. You simply throw it on and go. And speaking of versatility, a lot of crossbodies have convertible features like adjustable straps or additional top handles that allow you to hold them in various ways if you don’t need a hands-free bag at all times. Here. we’ve included various styles like mini, flap-over, sling, and satchel styles to show just how vast the black crossbody purse options are.

Black Tote Bags

If small purses simply aren’t your thing and you prefer a lot of space and storage, we present you with black tote purses. Tote bags come in a whole range of styles, but we opted for sleek, durable, and designer purses over flimsy fabric bags here. Go for glam with a shiny woven tote, or go for sophistication with a chic leather bag. But if you are looking for a no-nonsense everyday style, try a slouchy faux leather tote or structured cotton or canvas totes.

Black Top Handle Purses

Top handle bags are great occasion bags when you don’t have a ton to carry or want an eye-catching accessory. They’re small, compact, and just so chic. We’ve included unique rounded styles, mini trunks, and puffy fabrics in the purse shape for you to play around with. And perhaps the best part about top handles is that many styles these days come with crossbody straps, making them more practical to carry around when you’re done taking your drool-worthy pictures.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

How to Style Y2K Baguette Bags, According To Us

We Found The Best Tote Bags For Every Occasion

24 Clear Stadium Bags For Concerts & Game Days

Holiday Fashion Is Upon Us — The Style Picks R29 Editors Loved This Month

The weeks before the holidays are always an exciting time for fashion lovers. Upcoming celebrations mean festive outfits must be planned, and, for the style-loving set, that is just as joyous as finding that one gift you want under the tree on Christmas morning.

But any fashion-minded person knows it takes trial and error to achieve those looks. And that’s why the Refinery29 team has been busy testing some of the best winter fashion that would make the holiday season an effortless and stylish one. 

From velvet bows that’ll revive your Christmas spirit and chunky boots you can pair with your ugly sweater to winter basics that will make the cold-weather season a joy, the Refinery29 team has tried it all. Ahead, take a look at some of the best picks we laid our eyes on this month. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Jenni Kayne Oversized Crew Neck


“Is there anything more chic than a thick chunky sweater in the fall and winter months? I think not. This creamy slouchy crew from LA-based lifestyle brand Jenni Kayne has been a staple in my wardrobe since I got it a month ago. It’s made from recycled cashmere and cotton and is high-quality, super warm, and durable all at the same time.” — Kate Spencer, Sr. Affiliate Partnerships Manager

Jenni Kayne Oversized Crewneck, $, available at Jenni Kayne

Charles & Keith Lula Boots


“These aren’t just boots, these are boots! So much so that the first time I wore them a woman (excitedly) screamed it at my face in a bar bathroom. Perfect for wet weather and sticky dance floors alike, these patent stretch heels demand the spotlight and they’re even comfortable to walk in — joy!” — Alicia Lansom, Associate Editor

Charles and Keith Lula Patent Block Heel Boots, $, available at Charles and Keith

Jennifer Behr Wide Velvet Bow


“This year, the bow trend is helping me channel my inner child. This one by Jennifer Behr is the perfect mix of childish and chic, making it easy to pair with just about anything for the holiday season. So far, I’ve styled it with a leather jacket and turtleneck for a holiday party, as well as a T-shirt, jeans, and blazer to sightsee during a recent trip to Portugal. You can count it’ll be on my hair all winter long.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer

Jennifer Behr Wide Velvet Bow Barrette, $, available at Jennifer Behr

Hey Harper Triple Hoops Set


"Although I’ve had my third lobe piercing for over a year now, I haven’t found the right combination of earrings versatile enough to work with any outfit. When this waterproof set of hoops from Hey Harper went on sale for Black Friday, I knew it would be the perfect everyday stack for me. I’m all about simplicity these days, so this set was a 10/10 buy." — Ebony-Renee Barker, UK Fashion Editor


Hey Harper Triple Hoops Set, $, available at Hey Harper

Sézane Milo Classic Bag


“I am not a big bag person so, in my book, the perfect bag is a hands-free crossbody that is just big enough to fit… a book to read on the subway. This sleek Sézane handbag is versatile enough to go with everything in my wardrobe and doesn’t look bulky even with my paperback inside. I’ve worn it nonstop this fall.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director

Sézane Milo Classic Bag, $, available at Sézane

YPB Studio and Go Jogger


“Athleisure has never been my thing, but since I’ve recently been working out more (due to taking up tennis), it’s become necessary to have items that are made to go from sweating to styled in no time. This pair of joggers from Abercrombie’s YPB line is exactly that — a pair I can play tennis in and later wear to brunch with a nice jacket.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer

Abercrombie and Fitch YPB Studio and Go Jogger, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch

Topshop Raw Denim Column Skirt


"Admittedly, while I’ve been banging on about denim midi skirts as a must-have wardrobe staple, I didn’t have my own until now. This Topshop column skirt is made from thick denim, has a back slit for easy strides, and is the perfect length for me (I’m 5’7 for reference). I am looking forward to wearing this skirt for years to come." — Ebony-Renee Barker, UK Fashion Editor

Topshop Topshop raw denim column skirt in indigo, $, available at ASOS

Rixo Georgina Shirtdress


I’ve long been a fan of Rixo’s dresses thanks to the brand’s eye-catching prints. This midi — which can also double as a shirt dress and be styled more casually with a tank top and jeans — is just retro-looking enough without coming off as kitschy. — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director

Rixo London Georgina Midi Shirtdress, $, available at Rixo London

Maya Brenner Healing Retreat Necklace


"This necklace was thoughtfully gifted to me after I’ve had a difficult year, and it is one of those pieces you know you’ll have for a lifetime. Amethyst is meant to provide protection, balance, and healing, but whether or not you’re a crystal person, you can’t deny that this beautifully crafted necklace simply looks stunning on." — Ebony-Renee Barker, UK Fashion Editor

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

12 Must-Have Winter Wardrobe Staples For 2022

These Are Fall's Biggest Fashion Trends

The Fashion Items R29 Editors Loved This Month