As an admirer and passionate collector of bags, I feel like it’s my mission to demystify trends and viral styles that take over social media by storm. I’m thinking of the Uniqlo round shoulder bag, the Gucci Jackie or Balenciaga's Le City – all of which I have previously acquired with the purpose of trying to figure out what makes them so popular. Sometimes, it’s their affordable price point or simplicity of design that makes them widely appealing. Or it just might be that the right celebs and influencers flaunt a bag enough so that some buzz catches wind. Either way, what follows is usually quite prescriptive. Like in the case of Labubus (seriously, where are they now?) – mania ensues, products widely sell out, and their resale price suddenly skyrockets.
So, I thought, what about the bags you might not see everywhere? Instead of buzzy moments and celeb endorsement, I decided to dig a bit deeper and try out seven bags you might not have heard of yet. All with the goal of proving to myself – and everyone out there – that a great bag doesn’t always have to come with an accompanying viral moment. Sometimes, they are just out there waiting for you to pick them up.
The rules? I gave myself a week, with each day having a dedicated bag I had to carry with me to any/all outings. I tried to assign the bags to each day in a way that corresponded to what was going on, in order to maximise their success rate. For the purpose of this road-testing experience, I wanted to specifically focus on bags that can work from day to night, and can hold all of my necessities, regardless of my destination for the day. The biggest challenge? Spending 15-20 mins at the end of each day clearing out the bag and shoving all of its contents into a new one, dirty tissues included.
Here's what I learned after a week of road-testing seven shoulder bags:
Monday: Acne Studios Camero Camera bag
It’s an office day, and I’m cycling to Glamour HQ first thing in the morning. My work bag of the day is the Acne Studios Camero Camera, arguably the most established style on this list. And while the brand definitely has its celebrity fans, this piece is still pretty underrated. It comes in three sizes (mine is a medium) and has five full-length zipped compartments, making the bag a bit of a maze for bits and bobs, but also a very generous companion when it comes to space, including a 14-inch laptop. I get at least three compliments on the bag even before sitting at my desk, including people who hadn’t previously spoken to me.
The shape of the bag is quite retro, reminiscent of something a single mum character from a 1990s drama would stuff her belongings in before trying to escape her mafioso boyfriend. After cycling back home from work, I take my laptop out and have a change of outfit before heading solo to a gig by my favourite new band, Girl Group. Despite the plethora of hardware and the leather lining, the bag's weight is not overwhelming, though the best part is its duo of straps. The shorter, built-in one is perfect to be carried over the shoulder when filled or cross-body when empty. The longer, removable strap is adjustable, which makes the bag super versatile – and quite handy while you’re moshing with a bunch of cool Gen-Z kids.
Best for: people with good memory who unintentionally carry too much stuff.
Tuesday: Damson Madder Multi-pocket Roisin bag
Working from home today, so my bag's first outing is a lunch break shopping trip. The Damson Madder Multi-pocket Roisin bag is probably the most utilitarian choice on this list – nylon fabric makes it super lightweight, with outside pockets reminiscent of a safari look. On this occasion, my safari adventure comes in the form of M&S aisles and, while I don’t get any compliments from the cashier (sad), I proudly parade my bag full of carrots and hummus around Hackney (cliché).
I decide to zhuzh my bag with a little dolphin pendant from Desigual, a nod to the fact that I’ve got a diving lesson coming this evening. In addition to being a chic grocery transporter, Rosin also makes a perfect gym bag/pool bag. Towel, Speedos, flip flops, water bottle and toiletries all comfortably fit, and once a bit of water inevitably spills everywhere, this washable bag quickly dries off.
Best for: pragmatic people prone to spillage.
Wednesday: J&M Davidson Large Voyage tote
Let’s hear it for the roomiest companion on this list – the J&M Davidson Large Voyage tote. Just before leaving my house and jumping on the bike, I throw in four extra things I totally don't need, including a full-sized moisturiser. This time, I get only one office compliment on my bag, and it’s from a person who tends to wear animal prints most days of the week. I, on the other hand, rarely rock a wildlife pattern, which is probably why this bag and its furry, pony hair texture feel like a great addition to my bag collection.
After work, I cycle back East to meet a friend for a tea before seeing Sentimental Value at the cinema. Though this is not a film review piece, I would urge you to go and see it – just make sure to bring a large tote that can fit some sweets (sorry, cinema) and a large pack of tissues (you’ll need them). Bear in mind the bag doesn’t have a closure so if you come back home with a bunch of popcorn at the bottom of it… don’t say I didn’t warn you!
Best for: new parents and people with commitment issues.
Thursday: Simone Rocha Pillowcase Satchel Bag
I wake up feeling theatrical today, which means it’s time to rock the Simone Rocha Pillowcase satchel! For the first thing on my agenda, I head back to the swimming pool, though it’s laps in lanes on this occasion. The stark white bag feels slightly out of place in the Aquatic Centre, and I notice a few odd looks that morph into a chuckle. The bag, originally shown as part of Rocha’s SS26 collection, pays homage to the surreal world. It basically looks like an oversized folded napkin and a pillow made for a baby. In addition to being totally buoyant, the bag has a really roomy interior and can also be worn as a cross-body, especially by people with narrower shoulders.
But the real reason I chose to wear this bag today wasn’t the aquatic activities; it’s the fact that I’m heading to a Bridgerton-themed party hosted by jewellery brand Pandora. Honouring their collaboration with the regency-era show, the party has a dress code that’s all about frills and pastels. Obviously, I had to go all out with a pair of pink gloves and the Simone Rocha bag trimmed with lace-like embroidery. At one point, someone mistakes the bag for an actual pillow, which feels like a true success. Jessie Ware performs, I have some fancy cake, grab the night bus, and yes, use the bag to catch some zzzs on my way home. Although the black version of the bag is currently showing as sold out, make sure to add it to your wishlist as we anticipate additional pieces dropping soon.
Best for: ethereal girlies and people who enjoy napping on public transport.
Friday: Tod's Wave bag
It’s a day of practical needs. Working from home for the first half of the day, before heading to the library to do some research for a styling project. Tod’s Wave bag felt like quite an appropriate choice because, in addition to holding my laptop (without being a laptop backpack), it gives a scholar vibe reminiscent of 1970s school bags. It also has an extra pocket in the back and a fun architectural shape you can play around with by snapping the side flaps down.
I borrow a couple of art books to pull some references (they fit), and head to my local pub to meet friends. In there, a full watch party of the Traitors finale. This pleasant surprise feels quite on-brand for the bag, which definitely belongs in a Scottish castle.
Best for: professors and aspiring intellectuals.
Saturday: Tory Burch Large Charlie Shoulder bag
Yay, it’s the weekend, which means laptops are out and the smallest bag on this list is in. Tory Burch has recently emerged as a leader in high-quality, staple accessories, and the Charlie shoulder bag is a great example. Simple design, refined details and the buttery-est leather out there. Over the course of the day, I catch myself caressing the bag at least a few times – it’s actually that soft. After grabbing lunch with a friend, I head for an obligatory Saturday tour of local charity shops. Although there's nothing super exciting, I do stumble upon some lovely mirrors that catch my eye. Another friend gets in touch, and we agree on a spontaneous dinner at mine, which means I have to nip into a shop to pick up some ingredients.
The Tory Burch bag is surprisingly spacious – the inside is split into three accordion-like compartments and a fourth, zipped one. I successfully fit aubergines, onions, tomatoes and even a large bottle of sparkling water. There’s one moment after dinner where we even consider going on a full night out, and I get particularly excited about the prospect of properly testing out the bag's adjustable cross-body strap. Alas, we stay at home and open another bottle of wine.
Best for: spontaneous people who like to appear uncomplicated.
Save when you shop with these Tory Burch discount codes at checkout.
Sunday: & Other Stories Interwoven Leather tote
I wake up unexpectedly hungover, but it’s totally okay because today’s plans don’t include operating any heavy machinery. In fact, I’m going to the Barbican cinema for a quadriptych of 1960s war films by Yugoslavian director Puriša Đorđević. The bag, a gorgeously crafted & Other Stories Interwoven tote, has a pretty easy task – smuggle in enough snacks to last me for the whole day. A sandwich, a large bag of peanut M&Ms, a water bottle, almonds, a couple of satsumas, and a refreshing face spray comfortably pack into the bag.
The design is reminiscent of Bottega Venetta’s signature intrecciato weave, but still feels unique and luxurious because of its unique trapeze shape and the bonded seams. 8 hours later, I have polished off all the snacks and the bag is even lighter than it was at the beginning, making me think I need to revisit this one on Monday.
Best for: snack monsters.
Save when you shop with these & Other Stories discount codes at checkout.
The final verdict:
After road-testing seven totally different shoulder bags, it’s clear that great pieces come in all different shapes and sizes. But instead of focusing on the hype, consider what your day – or week – looks like, and go from there. Choosing bags that have the option to go cross-body is great, and your back will be grateful if you choose bags whose empty weight isn't overwhelming. But honestly, any bag can be the perfect bag if you take it on the right date!
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