It's True—Uniqlo's £15 Bag Is Officially 2023's Hottest Item

Be they a content creator, an editor or someone who simply loves to shop, every self-confessed "fashion person" has their thing. Some love shoes, others have brimming jewellery boxes, but for me, it's all about bags. Over my life so far, I've accumulated my treasures, from high-end investments to high-street gems and little-known brands that will hold space in my handbag wardrobe forever. Right now, however, there's one bag that's left all the rest tucked into dust bags in my wardrobe: Uniqlo's shoulder bag

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(Image credit: @florriealexander)

As you'll soon discover, I could talk about bags all day long. Along with the various trending styles and statement bags I've accumulated, there's a special place in my heart for bags that combine utility and style. And this Uniqlo bag ticks both of these off. Even better, it comes in at under £15. But trust me, there's plenty more to love about this handbag. 

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(Image credit: @louisahatt)

When I first saw the Uniqlo crossbody trending on TikTok, I figured it was simple, sleek and useful. When I bought it, I realised there was much more to it than first meets the eye. Firstly, the rounded shape and soft construction are perfect for running errands, going to work and basically any plans you have. Secondly, you'll find two pockets inside to keep the essentials (read: lip balm) close to hand. Finally, and most importantly, the size is incredibly deceptive. As someone who tends to overpack for even a simple coffee run, I can say this bag fits far more than you'd ever guess. Things I've fit into this bag include an umbrella, my full makeup bag and my greatest achievement, a full-size Pret baguette plus ginger shot. So if you're looking for a minimalist, understated bag that does more, this little bag ticks all the boxes.

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(Image credit: @heartzeena)

What's more, as shopping data experts at Lyst just revealed this week, Uniqlo's shoulder bag is officially 2023's most in-demand item, based on the online shopping behaviour of more than 200 million shoppers a year searching, browsing and buying fashion across brands and stores online. It also takes into account social media mentions and traction.

Speaking of the bag, Lyst said, "Uniqlo’s shoulder bag is the hottest product of the quarter. Retailing at under £15, it’s the cheapest product to ever be featured in The Lyst Index. It went viral on TikTok, generating over 59 million views on the platform and has sold out multiple times across multiple colourways." Seriously impressive. 

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(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Convinced? Keep scrolling to shop the Uniqlo bag that's living rent free in my mind (and wardrobe). 

SHOP UNIQLO'S SHOULDER BAG

Up next, The 8 Staples That London's Best Dressed Always Wear With Jeans

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Florrie Alexander
Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.