These Handbags from Smith & Canova Will Upgrade Any Outfit this Spring Summer

The weather is finally picking up, and we’re excited to plan some beautiful spring summer looks! Pass us our swishy skirts and dresses already, we’re so ready for lighter evenings and drinks after work in our favourite midi dress.

We recently caught up with the team behind Smith & Canova to discuss all things handbags (we know, it’s a hard life) and trends to keep an eye on for the upcoming season. If you’re not familiar with Smith & Canova, let us introduce you. Their story starts over 100 years ago, when David Smith Sr opened his first shop, repairing leather goods. Through years of working with leather and understanding the aftercare needed, the family began to handcraft beautiful leather bags, using only high-quality materials. The brand has become a cult classic, and can be found in many of the UK’s leading retail stores!

So, what trends can we expect to see this year? 

Let’s go on a safari 

Utilitarian-style safari inspired clothing is set to be a huge trend this summer. It’s time to dig out those cargo pants, utility belts and oversized pockets. The leopard trend will continue to be a staple in our lives, and it’s the purrrrfect way to enjoy this trend. Think earthy tones such as burnt orange, cream and khaki. We think this Smith & Canova tan leather backpack would look amazing with a pair of tailored cream trousers and a khaki tee. 

Powerful Metallics

We saw metallics all over the catwalk for SS20, spotted at JW Anderson, Toga and Coach, there are plenty of ways to have a play with this trend without looking like the tinman.

The trick here is to keep it simple and understated, so consider metallic accessories such as this beautiful gold clutch bag to complete your OOTD. Not only is this purse super cute, it also charges your phone – yes, really. The future is officially here. No more running out of battery when you’re mid-Instagram story. Yippee!

Buttery Soft Leather

Leather is set to be a huge trend in itself this year, with designers incorporating the material into dresses, suits, skirts and more. Just look to designers such as Nanushka for beautiful leather garments.

If you find the thought of strolling around in leather during the warmer months slightly uncomfortable (and to be frank, we wouldn’t blame you) why not look to upgrade your bag collection with a gorgeous buttery leather backpack instead? We adore this smooth leather pink backpack, the perfect shade for springtime too!

Club Tropicana Vibe

Think over-the-top patterns and fruit inspired prints with this trend that’s set to make a huge comeback. Dress up in palm prints and imagine you’re kicking back on the beaches of Ibiza with a cocktail (that came for free), and not crammed up against strangers on the Victoria Line! Team your fun and playful prints with a daring pop of colour. The Azala Miza backpack is a great accessory for us city girls. The spacious interior is perfect for housing all of your summer essentials, and there’s even a 15-inch padded laptop sleeve, winning! 

That 70’s Show

The 70’s called and they want their chunky shoes and disco collars back. This iconic decade is back in a big way this summer. Think hippy vibes, plenty of suede and hopefully, a summer of love! Team a floral mini dress with a suede tassel gilet and a slouchy bag just like this style from Smith & Canova. 

Power Dressing

Our favourite position? CEO, of course. Power dressing is a look we’ll be mastering this spring/summer, with oversized masculine-style suits for an effortless yet boss look. Raid your favourite vintage store and scour eBay for some serious power suits from circa 1985! We’ll be teaming our suits with a pair of classic ballet flats and a bag that means business. The YCB fashion team love this beautiful pebbled leather bag from Smith & Canova that will add a premium look to your outfit. 

90s Minimalism

The 90s were our decade, growing up surrounded by Spice Girls inspired platforms, crop tops and dodgy hair braids. It was a fun ten years, wasn’t it? The 90s have had a chic upgrade, and instead of stomping around in space boots we’ll be taking inspiration from this iconic fashion era with a more minimalist approach. Think silky skirts, cami tops, high-waisted jeans, mules and baguette bags. Ask yourself: would 90s Jennifer Anniston have worn this? Team your relaxed 90s look with a leather bum bag and you’re good to go.

What trends are you looking forward to wearing the most? You can view the full range of Smith & Canova bags at https://www.smithandcanova.co.uk happy shopping!

Tilly-Jayne Kidman

Tilly is a graduate in fashion marketing and currently works in social media. She writes for various publications including the Huffington Post as well as her own fashion and lifestyle blog tillyjayne.com. In her spare time she's usually wandering around her home city of Cambridge, making travel plans or finding a new restaurant to try out.