Buying guide for best kate spade bags
For many women, an outfit just isn’t complete without a fabulous designer bag. But if the usual designer bags are a little too stuffy or fussy for your tastes, a Kate Spade bag is the ideal alternative. Kate Spade embraced the idea that designer bags can be fun and approachable – and earned immense success and loyal owners of her brand.
Kate Spade bags offer all the sophistication you want from a designer accessory but with a more modern flair. And they’re less expensive than most other designer bags, too. Kate Spade offers a wide range of bags, which can make choosing the right one a bit of a challenge. You have to decide what type suits your needs, as well as what material and other features work best for your lifestyle.
We at BestReviews are here to help you sort through your options. We want to make shopping fun, not work. If you’re ready to buy a Kate Spade bag, our top picks are here. For general tips on choosing a Kate Spade bag, continue reading our shopping guide.
Types of Kate Spade bags
Shoulder bag
A Kate Spade shoulder bag is one of the most practical everyday bags out there, and and it’s available in several sizes. As the name implies, it has a strap that enables you to carry it on your shoulder, and usually has a top zipper closure to secure your belongings.
Tote
A Kate Spade tote is a type of shoulder bag, but it’s usually larger than the average shoulder style so it works well as a work or travel bag. Some styles are completely open on top for easy access inside. Others have a zipper closure like a traditional shoulder bag.
Satchel
A Kate Spade satchel is usually a medium to large bag with a handle on top. Many satchels also include a long strap for carrying it on your shoulder. A satchel is an ideal everyday bag, especially for work.
Crossbody
A Kate Spade crossbody bag has a very long strap that enables you to wear it across your torso for increased security. The style also leaves your hands free, which can be helpful when traveling. Crossbody bags range in size from small to large. These bags work well for everyday or travel.
Clutch
A Kate Spade clutch is a small handheld bag. Its size doesn’t allow you to carry many items, but most clutches are large enough to accommodate a phone and wallet. Some clutches have a detachable strap that enables you to carry it on your shoulder if you prefer. While clutches are often considered to be more formal bags, Kate Spade offers both evening and daytime options.
Backpack
You likely remember a backpack from your school days, but Kate Spade backpacks are much more sophisticated. These are large bags that you can carry on your back, though they often have a handle on top, too. Backpacks work well as travel bags.
Did you know?
Most Kate Spade handbags come with a one-year warranty on any manufacturing defects.
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Kate Spade bag features to consider
Material
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Leather: Most Kate Spade bags are made of leather, which is a versatile, durable handbag material that offers a highly sophisticated look. Leather bags are usually more expensive and require more care than bags of other materials.
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Nylon: Some Kate Spade bags are made of nylon, which is an extremely durable, water-resistant synthetic material that’s easy to clean. These bags have a more casual look, but they hold up to wear and tear better than other bag materials.
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Canvas: A few Kate Spade bags are made of canvas, also a durable but casual material. This heavyweight cotton is a natural material, but it doesn’t hold up to wear and tear as well as nylon.
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Fabric: Kate Spade offers some bags made with fabric, such as cotton twill. These bags range from casual to dressy depending on the color and pattern. Fabric bags have a nice, lightweight feel that makes them ideal for everyday use.
Compartments
Kate Spade bags are available with a variety of compartment configurations. Some feature a single large interior compartment with one or two smaller pockets for items like a cell phone. Other bags have an interior section divided into two compartments to help you better organize your belongings. Some styles also include exterior pockets for items you might need easy access to, such as glasses or keys.
Color
When it comes to color selection, Kate Spade offers a pretty wide range. You can choose classic, easy-to-wear neutral shades like black, white, brown, and gray that coordinate with nearly any outfit. Or you can opt for bold hues like red, pink, gold, green, or blue to really make a statement. Kate Spade also offers bags in multicolor patterns, such as feminine floral or stylish snakeskin prints.
Hardware
Kate Spade bags are known for their understated hardware. Most bags feature 14-karat gold-plated hardware for a stylish, sophisticated look.
FAQ
Q. What is the best Kate Spade bag for everyday use?
A. For a daily bag, a Kate Spade shoulder bag or tote is a good bet. Choose a style in a neutral color like black, gray, or brown and it will coordinate with nearly any outfit in your closet.
Q. What’s the best Kate Spade bag for travel?
A. For travel, you’ll likely want as much room in your bag as possible, so a Kate Spade tote is an ideal option. If you prefer a smaller bag, a crossbody bag is ideal for tourists because it’s more difficult for pickpockets to grab a bag that’s across your torso as opposed to hanging from your shoulder or in your hand.
Q. Can I personalize my Kate Spade bag?
A. There are several Kate Spade bags that can be monogrammed with your initials, including smaller shoulder bags and totes. The brand also offers a variety of bag charms or decorative shoulder straps that enable you to give your bag more personality.
