Gucci , $620
Vinyl interior is perfect for soggy swimsuits and towels, but designer terry cloth must be dry-cleaned, so this is only for the most pristine beaches (685 Fifth Ave., at 54th St.; 212-826-2600).

Chloé, $600
Colorful details like leather handles, side buckle, chain, hook closure, and outside zipper pocket will establish you as the beach’s trendiest bum. (At Intermix, 125 Fifth Ave., nr. 20th St.; 212-533-9720.)

Elizabeth Hurley Beach, $235
Neither terry exterior nor canvas interior are waterproof. Three interior compartments make it easy to keep beach beverages away from beach reads. (At Saks Fifth Avenue.)

Tory by TRB, $165
No outside closure, but two large inside pockets on this big bag from fashion’s new favorite designer. A bit heavy, though (257 Elizabeth St., nr. Houston St.; 212-334-3000).

Hable Construction, $165
Durable canvas and a distinctive print, but it’s heavy even before it’s been loaded with the requisite sun block, magazines, and towels (230 Elizabeth St., nr. Prince St.; 212-343-8555).

Bleibtreu, $150
Cool magnetic closure, groovy swirl design, and red handles make this a good city/beach switch-hitter. Shame about the tiny inside pocket (206 Ave. B, nr. 13th St.; 212-979-5250).

Brics, $70
Two handle lengths let it double as a shoulder bag or hand tote. A tie closure keeps the top secure while leaving wiggle room to pull things out (535 Madison Ave., nr. 54th St.; 212-688-4490).

Twelve, $49
Lightweight, sturdy fabric, simple design, handy pockets inside and out. You’ll use it during the week for hauling newspapers and gym clothes. (At Searle, 635 Madison Ave., nr. 59th St.; 212-750-5153.)

(Photo: Davies + Starr)

Mexx, $39
The essence of summer. Straw exterior, floral-print interior, and if you overtax it with too many bottles of Evian, it won’t make it past Labor Day (650 Fifth Ave., at 52nd St.; 212-956-6506).

Related:

• Archive: “Market Research”
• Articles by Aja Mangum
• Table of Contents: Jul 18, 2005 issue of New York | Subscribe!