In my uni days, I somehow gallivanted through life with small cross-body handbags that accommodated my keys, phone, a tiny purse containing some loose change and cards, and nothing more.
While I appreciate the minimalist approach, it would never work for me these days. To paraphrase Sir Mix-a-Lot, I need big bags and I cannot lie.
My current one? It’s a dream. It’s great quality and super pretty (metallic rose gold, swoooon), but more importantly it’s roomy enough for all my crap essentials.
There's an orange in there. And a clutch as well.
It can comfortably fit my clutch, sunnies case, home-packed lunch and various snacks, phone and charger, a book, a pair of flats, a small umbrella, a water bottle, and about ten million receipts and tubes of lipstick. I could also fit a laptop in there if I needed to. It's basically a Mary Poppins bag.
Finding a handbag that's got size, utility and style can be a challenge, but it's possible. Here are 10 carry-alls worth investigating.
1. Louenhide 'Bermuda' bag
This is the bag I was raving about, and I know at least two other Bermuda owners so I'm not the only fan. There are plenty of gorgeous shades to choose from, and... drum roll... there's a bonus smaller handbag that comes inside! Winner. Buy it here: $109.95
2. Target Animal Faux Fur Tote
If you're after something a little more budget-friendly, this one looks like a beauty. It also comes in black if leopard print isn't your bag (ha, ha). Buy it here: $29 (down from $39 at time of writing).
3. Fossil 'Sydney Shopper' Bag
Parenting editor Alys Gagnon owns this bag, and there's a lot to love about it. It comes in classic shades and vivid hues (including this red) and it's large enough to fit a 15" laptop, according to the website. That's a winner. Buy it here: $195.30 (down from $279 at time of writing).
4. Sportsgirl 'Dani' Spliced Tote
This bad boy is a great day-to-day staple, with ample room to hold all your odds and ends. The simple design and light grey suede will also go with everything you own. Buy it here: $59.95
5. Status Anxiety 'The Lair' bag
Has there ever been a more appropriate name for a cavernous handbag? This leather design is available in black, tan and grey and has a decent-looking strap. Buy it here: $299.
6. ASOS Suede Patchwork Shopper Bag
If you're bored of block colour, this pastel geometric design makes for a nice change. This looks like the ideal casual bag to chuck over your shoulder — the dual straps and soft suede would make for comfy wearing. Buy it here: $98.
7. Dotti tote bag
Another option that won't blow a hole in your bank account. It's 44 centimetres wide, 32 centimetres long, and about as simple as tote bags come. Hey, there's nothing wrong with simplicity. Buy it here: $39.95
8. ASOS Suede Croc Embossed Shopper Bag
Tan? Check. Soft suede? Check. Croc-inspired detail? Check. And it costs less than a hungee. Nice. Buy it here: $76.
9. Tony Bianco 'Beauty' bag
For work purposes, you can't go wrong with a black tote. This spacious, leather-look bag comes with a detachable longer strap, so you can chuck it over your shoulder or carry it in your hand — as you wish. (Yep, that was a Princess Bride reference.) Buy it here: $99.
10. Dune Tote Bag
Yes, a black handbag is a staple — but navy is just as lovely. This classic tote is detailed, with a nice contrast between the navy body and the tan handles, but not to the point where it'll overpower your outfit. Buy it here: $119.
Do you own a great, big, useful bag? Tell us where you found it. (Please.)
Featured images: Status Anxiety/Target/Dune.
Top Comments
Pretty bags, but the problem with totes is that they are bottomless pits! I need at least three separate internal dividers, plus two, preferably three outside pockets for keys and stuff.....
This is true. The amount of time I spend rifling through my bag...
And, if it's for carrying work things back and fro, you may be able to claim a tax deduction. Easoto Totes have many pockets and a separate area for your shoes! See the ATO reference article here: http://easoto.com.au/pages/...
I think 'reasonable deduction' is the most important part of that page.
No idea what the ATO considers reasonable, but all these bags appear to be around the cost of a briefcase (given there are huge variations), so you'd think it would be okay.
Of course, never buy anything solely for a tax reduction :)