Most Versatile Bag Colors
...and it's probably not what you thought I'd say?!?!
Absolutely, black leather handbags do have their versatility - there’s no denying that. But you might be surprised when you realize just how many other versatile leather bag colors outshine it when you give them some serious thought.
I mean, think about it, every woman I know already owns a black bag (often two or three), and I’m in the camp that you only need one really great black bag - but it shouldn’t always be your default choice. Sometimes black doesn’t even add anything to an outfit and, worse, can throw it off balance (just like black shoes can). I see it all the time. You might even start seeing it differently after you think about it.
When I first ventured into the world of handbag crafting, black leather purses weren’t on my radar. Well, to be completely honest, I was steering clear of black because I had this notion that the market was already flooded with a sea of black bags. It wasn’t until boutiques I worked with kept asking for a classic black tote or leather crossbody bag that I finally caved. Yet even now, I can’t help but wonder if the allure of black leather bags stems from the misconception that they’re the ultimate in versatility or simply because, let’s face it, who wants to switch out their bag day in, day out - or even with the changing seasons?
But I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to - there are so many other colors just as versatile! At Brynn Capella, our passion lies in full-grain leather handbags made in the USA in year-round shades that inject statement-making flair into your wardrobe. Who needs to follow the old rule of sticking to black for versatility?
Ready to find your perfect leather handbag in a shade you’ll reach for all year? Jump to your favorite color below!
Blue:
A breath of fresh air and blue definitely screams summer vibes. But don't be fooled; it can work wonders year-round, especially if you wear a lot of denim, like me. Cape Cod’s medium blue adds a soft pop that layers beautifully under fall knits and spring florals, giving your look a subtle yet uplifting twist. Aquarius’s slate-blue hue brings a cool, modern edge to crisp whites and chambray, making it just as at home on summer days as it is under winter coats.
Tan:
Tan is the ultimate neutral that brings warmth and depth to any palette. The sun-washed glow of Rosarito Beach reads like a true golden tan—perfect with navy, reds, or crisp whites—while Whiskey channels that rich amber brown of the drink itself, pairing beautifully with olive greens, deep reds, and denim. Both hues transition effortlessly from spring florals to cozy fall layers, making tan a go-anywhere, year-round staple.

Chocolate Brown:
Chocolate brown is the quietly sophisticated neutral. Our Woodstock’s deep cocoa hue warms chunky winter knits, complements spring florals, anchors summer linen, and enriches fall suede. Pair it with ivory, olive, denim, or blush for a polished look.

Light Grey:
Elegant and understated, light grey is the ultimate team player—especially if your wardrobe leans into softer hues. Our Stone Temple hobo pairs effortlessly with navy suiting and camel coats alike, and never fights with bold prints or metallic accents. Its whisper-soft full-grain leather is the neutral you’ll grab on repeat, whether you’re heading into the office or out for a weekend coffee.
Pinky Taupe:
A little pink, a little taupe, a whole lot of style - Pinky Taupe is the chameleon of bag colors, effortlessly adapting to florals, neutrals, and everything in between. I call ours Rosewood, a warm year-round pink. This timeless hue brings warmth to denim jackets and softens monochrome looks, making it your go-anywhere accessory (our Cher is in our Vault but yes, we hope to bring her back someday).

Frog Green:
Touted as the must-have “frog green” for 2025, Happy Trails is a fresh, grassy shade that feels both bold and grounded. It pairs effortlessly with earth tones and denim, pops against crisp whites and blushes, and shifts seamlessly from spring’s brightness to winter’s muted palette—making it a truly year-round hue.

Soft Metallic:
Shine bright like a diamond! Soft metallics add a refined shimmer that plays beautifully with any palette - enough sparkle to catch the light without stealing the show. Brings warmth to cool grays, complements blush tones, and lifts classic black with a hint of sheen. It adds a touch of glamour to summer days, weddings, date nights, and so much more - making it your understated year-round glam.

Merlot:
For those who like a rich, warm tone, our Free Love or Merlot is a winner. It's like carrying around a fine wine (minus the spills). It is hands-down one of the most versatile colors - its warmth enlivens navy, chocolate, and charcoal while popping against greys, creams, and even sage or blush. From cozy winter knits to vibrant summer florals, it transitions effortlessly through every season, adding instant polish to denim, dresses, and everything in between.

So, there you have it! While black may have its place in the bag world, these versatile colors are here to prove that there's a rainbow of options to brighten up your accessory game. No shade to black - your one great black bag still has a place. But you might actually love swapping it out for a splash of Happy Trails next Tuesday.
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