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Foreword

1. Hit subscribe, it really helps, and it’s free.

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2. This is gonna be my first attempt at a shorter article. I want to post more and write less. Let me know what you think.

3. Mastering the art of finding the perfect bag to complement an outfit is a skill that takes time to develop. Often, the challenge arises from the limited variety of bags people have at their disposal. Personally, I'm still in the process of fully appreciating bags as accessories that can enhance my outfits, rather than detract from them; writing down my thoughts will hopefully allow me to gain more clarity on the matter. While I'm no expert in the realm of bags and outfits, I'd like to share some insights on achieving synergy between practicality and aesthetics.

4. There are way too many bags for me to address each individual type, This article addresses a framework for how to pick and choose bags based on your priorities.

Style Guide

Bags are not only functional but also essential accessories that can elevate your outfit and showcase your personal style. Whether you prefer crossbody bags, totes, or handbags, finding the perfect balance between fashion and functionality is essential.

Here are some pointers/ opinions on bags in relation to a given outfit's overall appeal:

1. Opt for Neutral: For a bag that you will use on a daily basis, neutral tones like black, brown, or beige are versatile and can effortlessly blend with various outfits. Neutral isn’t entirely just in reference to color though, I’m referring to literally all aspects of the bag; aim to find bags that don’t lean into certain aesthetics too much and would be able to fit into most contexts without looking odd. An easy indicator of this is too many external features such as excess zippers, pouches, colors, or even materials. Aim to keep it simple.

Here is a great example by Rains, one of my favorite companies to buy bags from. Anyone who knows me in the last 2 years has seen me with Rains bags. Also most of their stuff is waterproof. Definitely check out their website:

2. Functionality: Now you are probably wondering if I have to keep everything neutral, What about specific purpose bags (traveling, office, leisure)?

Remember, the objective is to identify bags that complement a range of outfits, ensuring you do not accumulate excessive bags. Each additional bag should serve a distinct purpose, people should make purchases only when they perceive a genuine need for a new bag.

For instance, I love my Rains backpack, but I realize that backpacks can sometimes impair the formal aspects of an outfit that are necessary for office wear (imagine wearing a suit).

So what do we do? Well, now we have a reason to buy a different bag, so the next logical step is to prioritize the formality aspect of the bag and combine it with function. Tote bags just look more mature (ignore the rest of this section if you are an investment banker). No, I am not talking about the ones from Urban Outfitters. This is something that will just make more sense when you see someone wearing it in a formal manner versus a backpack. Here is an example:

Here is one of my favorite picks by Bellroy for an office bag that does both extremely well (shoutout @charkietran on IG for this one):

The sleek tote design not only complements formal outfits but also prioritizes functionality, ensuring comfort for office-goers. It even has little rubber pads under the straps so the bag won’t fall off your shoulders (tote bag wearers will understand). I will likely be purchasing this bag soon.

Rains also makes a great tote

Here’s a cheaper alternative with a few less fancy features that Uniqlo offers:

Honestly, a really great feature is that it can also be worn as a backpack if needed/ wanted (has storable padded backpack straps.

3. Material Matters: Quality bags will always come at a premium. This is something I have addressed multiple times: good stuff costs money. And for good reason too, most of the bags that I will refer you to will last you years, if not decades (they usually all have ridiculous warranties too. The choice of bag material can significantly impact your outfit's overall agenda:

a) For a casual and laid-back look, canvas, mesh, or nylon bags are excellent options. For a good set of parameters in this category avoid purchasing bags that have:

• More than 2 primary colors

• The words “Just Do It”

• More than 3 straps

• Anything from Jansport, Herschel, or any other brands that have a monopoly on high schoolers

Here’s a great example of a bag that I’ve talked about countless times before:

Here’s me wearing it:

b) For more formal occasions, consider leather, monotone, or smooth material bags to add a touch of sophistication to your attire. (covered this already)

c) When it comes to things like hiking, running, camping, etc., ignore this entire article; do not pursue aesthetics over functionality for tasks where it is necessary.

Remember that the quality of the material you ultimately choose will have varying qualities (leather especially). Thus, ensure you do adequate research on the product.

4. Embrace the Crossbody: How could I even make an article about bags and leave out Crossbody bags. They have been around forever but, lately, with the popularity of athleisure and gorpcore finding resurgence, they are as popular as ever. They are compact, useful, and usually an additive to an outfit.

We all know about the Lululemon Everywhere Belt bag, but why do people love it so much? Well for one, its subtle branding and overall minimal silhouette are visually appealing but it’s the functionality that sells it for most people. It can carry so much in such a small form factor. Here are a few alternatives:

This bag is awesome, it’s cheap, well made, and holds more than the Lulu counterpart. Don’t worry, this will be the last uniqlo item in this article. It’s not a secret that I love Uniqlo; they are the best balance of quality and affordability out there. Super accessible too.

I love this bag (I have this bag). Yes, it’s slightly expensive but well worth the price. It’s my favorite bag to take on hikes or to pair with hike/gorp-core outfits. I can’t recommend it enough. The North Face and Carhartt are also notable in this area of bags and both have some great options.

Some cool backpacks if literally nothing I said interested you:

This one I like a lot. If you absolutely must get a backpack for work, something like this is ideal.

Here’s another option by Monos that I’ve been recommended before:

I’ve heard this is a great travel bag, something to consider for the consultants reading.

This has nothing to do with work bags but Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress which is their fancier fashion-oriented line) has always made really cool bags:

And that’s it from me recommendations-wise. As always, no matter how much you buy, without confidence nothing will ever look good. Explore new styles but stay true to your likes.

What I have picked up recently

Boom. That’s it from me, leave a comment if you enjoyed the shorter (kinda) version.

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