best bets

Best Bet: Carry All

Sure, we covet the latest exotic-skin “It” bag carted down the runway each season, but when our weekend plans entail biking, beer gardens, lounging in the park, or schlepping to the beach, croc skin really can’t compare to a throw-anywhere canvas tote. These styles by Showpony give the dependable form a glam update, screen-printed with feminine vintage images like antique twenties handbags, corsets, gauzy bows, or frills. The sturdy bags are large enough to lug around your laptop, books — even a few September issues — and each provides a distinctive alternative to, say, the ubiquitous Topshop tote.

$20 each at SupermarketHQ.com.

Best Bet: Carry All