10 Embellished Handbag Straps to Update Your Purse

Gone are the days when you’d invest all your hard-earned cash on the latest It bag only to realize it’s actually not that versatile after all. But hello, it’s 2017, and customization reigns supreme. AKA, if you’re not already reaching for the fuzzy charms, decorative adhesives, and now interchangeable straps, then you best be getting to it. Give your everyday purse the makeover that it deserves with one of these 11 next-level handbag straps — from festi-cool fringe to ultra-femme floral — for major #OOTD slayage. See, now you have no excuse.

Nena & Co. No. 4259 One of Kind Bag Strap

Imagine the possibilities with this reversible strap made of vintage artisan fabrics.

Pop & Suki Backpack Straps

Neighborhood #girlgang alert! Run, don’t walk, to call dibs on this millennial pink backpack strap that will leave you hands-free to run internship errands or hang with your crew.

Marc Jacobs Webbed Leopard Bag Strap

Turn heads with a shocking pink leopard print strap. Achieve groupie status by teaming it with a leather moto jacket and biker boots.

Anya Hindmarch All Over Stickers Shoulder Strap

We know this signature Anya Hindmarch strap is a bit of a splurge, but we’re also advocates of the cost-per-wear equation. The compilation of rad stickers, including googly eyes and a winking face, caters to the emoji-obsessed crowd.

Elle & Jae Gypset Macramé Guitar Bag Strap

‘70s babes, rejoice! Between summer weddings and well-timed getaways, this macramé guitar strap is calling out to the inner hippie in all of us.

Rebecca Minkoff Embroidered Flower Guitar Strap

Summer 2017’s It accessory? You’re looking at it. You can count on this embroidered flower guitar strap lending just the right amount of rock ‘n’ roll swagger to your trusty M.A.C. or compact satchel.

Charles & Keith Weave Detail Bag Strap

Now this is what we like to call business with a side of pleasure. Werk it during your morning commute with a woven chevron strap that fastens to any top-handle bag.

Kate Spade Mix It Up Fringe Strap

We don’t typically like to play favorites, but how can you not when you find a strap that packs this much style. The party-ready tassels and multi-color jacquard detail practically call for a sombrero (Taco Tuesday outing, y’all!).

Carrie’d NYC Caroline Adjustable Guitar Handbag Strap

Get all of your looks in one with this reversible strap. One second you have a pink and red striped option, and the next you’re flaunting a colorful tapestry-inspired pattern. If that’s not sartorial magic, then we don’t know what is.

Cath Kidston Mallory Ditsy Strap

New day, new #BOTW (bag of the week). That’s exactly what Cath Kidston had in mind when designing this ditsy floral strap that’s Hamptons-bound — just add a dainty LWD and lace-up espadrilles for the full lewk. Pssst: We’re also partial to the millennial pink saddlebag (sadly, not included).

The dreaded time has come for me to retire the duffel bags collecting dust in my closet. They’ve been by my side since my early college days and accompanied me during multiple trips to New York City at the beginning of my relationship. Now? Uh, they’re hanging on by a thread hence their haphazard storage location. Don't even get me started on my tote bags 🫠.

As much as it pains me to think about parting ways with them, I know it’s time for me to give myself a major travel upgrade. It’s not like we have to sacrifice style over function anymore so I’m giving myself permission to embrace new things. Interested in seeing which duffel bags I've been eyeing? Keep scrolling to see the 9 picks that are my shopping radar!

Shop Stylish Duffel Bags Here!

CALPAK Travel Stevyn Rolling Duffel (Cheetah)

My S.O. has family in Virginia and NYC so it's inevitable that we'll be traveling with a busy toddler this year. While searching for duffel bags, I came across this rolling design by CALPAK. The cheetah print caught my eye first, but the wheels and separate shoe compartment feature pulled me in. Someone clearly understood that some of us aren't that great at packing our shoes and clothes in one big space.

BÉIS The Commuter Duffel (Beige)

I'm not doing much commuting these days (thank goodness), but this still seems like one of the best weekender duffel bags I've come across. I love bags that have multiple exterior pockets and this design by BÉIS isn't short on that. It's also super roomy inside which means I can pack at least 2-3 outfits, bras, underwear, and even my compact water bottle without wondering if I've overpacked.

Vera Bradley Weekender Travel Bag (Magnifique Floral)

I'm not above cute floral weekender duffel bags at all. I'm actually drawn to them now that I'm a little older so I guess this means my grandma was on to something with her love for floral things. Anyway, the exterior pockets on this bag are zippered so that'll keep your miscellaneous essentials safe and secure. I already know you'll probably pack extra red lipstickor face wash to get around TSA's strict rules because I will too!

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Extra-Large Weekender Bag

This bag is speaking to the part of me that's ultra-feminine. I love my earth tone colors like hunter green and taupe, but pink will always cradle my heart with its stylish appeal. This weekender bag may not have all the spacious features as the other duffel bags I've mentioned, but sometimes I'm willing to break the rules by choosing style over function.

Lulu's Oversized Beige Weekender Bag

Not everyone wants a patterned or colorful bag so I've been eyeing this weekender duffle bag for the moments I don't want to draw to much attention to myself in the airport. It only has interior storage options which makes it perfect for those quick "Please spend the night" moments 👀.

CALPAK Stevyn Duffel Bag with Shoe Compartment (Daisy)

This design is so nice, I had to add it twice except this one doesn't have wheels! I like to think of this as the sister or friend who doesn't have kids of CALPAK's rolling duffel bag. The handle straps make it easy to carry your essentials inside and you still get the cool shoe compartment feature!

Minted Botanical Cascade Fillmore Duffel Bag

I didn't know Minted sold duffel bags so I was ecstatic when I found this cute design that somehow reminds me of growing up in Florida. Truthfully, this bag was inspired by the famous San Francisco landmark so that also checks out. It has side-panel pockets that keep your smaller accessories in place and it has a interior pocket that can safely house your wallet.

Also, there's no need to check this bag in because it can fit securely in the overhead space.

Under Armour Favorite Duffel Bag

If your next adventure involves a camping trip where you'll be doing a ton of hiking, you need a sturdy duffel bag. Under Armour's designed this one to comfortably secure your belongings and allow you to transport them without feeling weighed down.

If you just want to take this to the gym, we won't judge you. In this day and age, having options isn't always a bad thing!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more fun travel inspo!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via CALPAK

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Transitioning your home from winter to spring doesn't have to take a huge effort or budget. A few throw pillows here, a flower vase there can make your home look fresher, more inviting while reviving how you feel about your space. Whether you want to hop on the vintage decor trend or bring in fresh Danish pastels, we have some spring decor swaps that will help sprinkle a dose of happy into your home. First, plan your budget and look around your space. What pieces don’t give your home that spring joy you crave? Stow them away for the season and they’ll be like new again in the fall! Now enjoy the things that truly refresh your space.

Shop Spring Home Decor Here!

ban.do Stacked Citrus Vase

These sweet citrus designs are the perfect pop of color for your spring table or home office!

Folkulture Throw Pillow Covers

The scalloped design on these 18x18 cotton covers are a playful way to dress up your sofa or bed.

Studio McGee x Threshold Natural Wicker Table Lamp

Give your indoors an outdoor vibe with these charming woven table lamps.

Etsy Wavy Wall Shelf

Brighten your walls with brightly colored pastels. These shelves are great for holding books, picture frames, plants and more.

H&M Floral Throw

Spring is still a transitional season with chilly mornings and nights. Swap your winter throws for this fun floral pattern.

Scalloped Multi Border Decor Braided Jute Collection

Pop this jute rug in your bathroom, on your porch, in your kitchen -- anywhere you need a little statement piece.

Poster Store Botanical Gallery Wall

Customize a gallery wall that suits your style -- this site creates one for you or pick and choose your faves.

Lyla Monogram Trinket Dish

Even a new trinket dish on your dresser can bring a little joy to your morning. This monogrammed one makes a great gift for spring birthdays!

H&M Pleated Paper Table Lamp

This pretty-in-pink table lamp is a great way to bring in soft, spring color into your home -- get two for symmetrical bedside tables or go solo on a desk or console table.

Wicker Planter Storage Baskets

These cute and affordable planters are a fun way to freshen up your entry or kitchen -- add plants, cloth napkins, magazines, even mail.

Jungalow x Opal Cotton Sheet Set

We love designer Justina Blakeney's style and here she gives us a colorful canvas on which to layer all our bedding.

Elin Ceramic Knobs

Add new knobs to end tables for an easy spring refresh.

Anthropologie Fruit Candle Holder

These whimsical candle holders cheer up your decor and are perfect for all your spring entertaining.

Chasing Paper x Jenni Yolo Peel-And-Stick Wallpaper

Peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easier to upgrade your walls with stunning prints. Try it in a bathroom or kitchen or create an accent wall in your bedroom for this vintage-inspired look by DIYer Jenni Yolo.

Anthropologie Gingham Curtains

We never met a check we didn't like. Gingham is a classic spring look that always feels happy and carefree!

Check out our online newsletter for more spring decor inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Etsy

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more gift guides for Mother's Day and beyond!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Image via brands.