Bags. Totes. Carryalls.

What's the best bag for lugging around everyday, but still chic?

Hi.

I’ve recently been inspired by friends who reach out for a second opinion - about things they WANT or things they NEED. And it’s always a fun conversation.

It’s always more fun talking to a trusted friend and considering the reasons why certain items are worth investing in, while others may not stand the test of time. That’s one of the questions I always ask myself… “Is it timeless?” I also think a lot about functionality, and how will something actually translate in my day-to-day life, and is there to serve a purpose, while also being beautifully designed. (Not everything is splurge-worthy, but when something is worth it, it’s worth it!!)

This first post is inspired by a bag conversation I had with Katherine Lewin, founder of the incredible shop Big Night. She and I have been brainstorming totes, and she asked me for thoughts on the beautiful Loewe tote she received for her birthday. (!!!). She needed a bag she could carry her laptop around in, and was looking for something more elevated than her current LL Bean tote. But the question was, “Is this bag too nice for schlepping around everyday?”

The Loewe puzzle tote in all it’s beauty…

Here are some options that serve the “nice bag, but not too precious to use almost every day.” I put all of these bags through the timeless lens, and I would consider some of these investment pieces that can live with you forever, and these leathers will develop a beautiful patina over time.

Clockwise from top left.

Khaite Osa Tote - this one is my personal favorite that I’ve been carrying for the past year. It’s a really beautiful leather that can withstand a lot. I’ve carried it in the rain, I’ve spilled inside of it, and on weekends with the kids, I stuff it full.

Loewe Puzzle Tote - this is the bag that started it all. It comes in a range of sizes, which is incredible. The smaller ones are very very cute. The medium is a good everyday tote, and the large and XL are large and in charge. They are beautifully made, and the question is, are they too beautiful for carrying around a laptop and everything else when you’re on the go for the day? I think this really depends. They can certainly carry all the things, but the seaming details make me think that you wouldn’t want to be too demanding of these bags. Perhaps this is the tote you’re a little easier on, or you rotate between other bags.

Toteme Belted Suede Bucket Bag - I’ve seen this a few times in person, and think it looks like it’s worth the cost. It’s roomy (could be too big for some), it’s clean and minimal, but I love the simple belt detail.

Madewell Essential Bucket Bag - this bag is clean, minimal, and elevated, and a great everyday option. I love the suede, but there’s also a nice range of leather colors to choose from. It has an adjustable buckled strap and an interior pocket - very functional and practical. I’ve wear-tested this bag, and carried my laptop, water bottle and all of my other essentials.

Mansur Gavriel Soft Hobo - I love the soft shape of this bag - it is a grainy calfskin, and looks like it can function as your everyday bag, but has a beautiful modern silhouette. It’s a reasonable price point and feels timeless but still of the moment.

The Row Idaho Tote - The saddle leather is gorgeous, a smooth oily calfskin, and just the right weight. The straps swivel… I love that design detail so much. It comes in a smaller size too, which is perfect for an everyday bag.

Stay tuned for what Katherine ultimately decided on…

And please let me know if you have anything you’d like a second opinion on, let’s talk!