While I can fill half my wardrobe with jackets and coats (no joke), when it comes to bags, I have a fairly practical, streamlined approach. Okay, so when I say practical, I mean that in the context of being a fashion editor, so I'm not exactly toting sporty backpacks, however, I do have a set of requirements that have to be ticked off.
Form and function both have an equally important role to play in finding the perfect bag. So what do I look for? Firstly, it has to be roomy enough to fit in the essentials (purse, phone, keys, lipstick, etc.). Secondly, it has to be versatile enough to work with a large percentage of my wardrobe. Finally, it has to be hands-free. The result of these specifications is that I almost exclusively buy crossbody bags.
In the interest of our readers, I thought I'd tell you about the three bags I wear on repeat. They pretty much cover all the bases when it comes to my bag needs. My lineup is a mix of high-street and high-end brands, but the uniting factor is their grab-and-go appeal. After all, no one has time to be trying on different bags when you're rushing for the train on a weekday morning. From Wandler's minimalist design to the Coach's Tardis-like interior, scroll down to see and shop the styles I can't live without.
Wandler Hortensia
Who What Wear's editorial director, Hannah Almassi, has previously waxed lyrical about the joys of the Wandler Hortensia. She convinced me that it was a designer bag that worth the investment, and she was quite right. I love the Hortensia's clean-lined silhouette and roomy interior, which fits in everything I need. The fact that I wore it every day during fashion week is a testament to the bag's versatility and practicality.
SHOP THE LOOK
Coach Camera Bag
Out of all my bags, Coach's camera bag is the one that fits the most. You can't tell from the outside, but the interior is Tardis-like. I fell for the brand's signature line—all of which feature the brand's classic logo print. The neutral hue goes with everything I own and the chain strap offering a chic contrast. I'm also not usually a fan of personalisation, but as I was able to choose the colours of the initials, the end result was pretty subtle.
SHOP THE LOOK
Related: The 12 Most Important Designer Bags of 2018
Mango Cylinder Bag
I couldn't not include a piece from the Great British High Street (I'm a big fan). I had my eye on this Mango bag for a while but wasn't sure about the sage colour, as it felt quite specific. However, once I took the plunge and bought it, I was surprised by how versatile it was. While it is technically green, it acts more like a neutral, and I find that I can wear it with most things. I also think the suede fabric makes the bag look seriously high-end.
SHOP THE LOOK
SHOP MORE CROSSBODY BAGS
Dark green is really useful around this time of the year.
A little hardware can go a long way if you're not a minimalist.
So many fashion girls swear by this style.
Zara's bag edit is pretty great this season.
The Gucci Soho is a cult bag with practical appeal.
Up Next: I'm Not a Jewellery Person, But These Are the 6 Pieces I Wear on Repeat
-
I Give It a Week Until Every Fashion Person in NYC Is Wearing This Under-$500 Designer BagIt could be even less than that, though.
-
There Are Bag Trends, and Then There Are Investment Bag Trends—That's What This One IsCeleb approved.
-
I Spent the Afternoon Scrolling Through Saks Off 5th—Wow, These Discounted Shoes and Accessories Are Very ChicSunglasses, bags, sandals, and more.
-
10 Who What Wear Editors, 64 Spring Buys—Inside Our Seasonal Mood BoardsEverything inspiring our wardrobes this season.
-
This Hailey Bieber–Backed Handbag Trend Is Everything to Me Right NowI need it.
-
The 2025 It Girl's Wardrobe: 9 Highly Specific Brands and Buys They're All WearingFrom handbags to jeans to jewelry.
-
I Tested Reformation's Bags IRL—These 6 Are Actually Worth ItThese bags are like if The Row and Gucci had a baby.
-
Madewell's Insiders Event Is So Good—27 Picks Chic People Will Be Adding to Their CartsGet 25% off just about everything.
