So our bags are getting smaller and lighter, but that's only when they're not multiplying 50-fold in size, which is also bang on trend. Have we got that right? The message I'm getting is as long as it's too small to be of use or fits in everything including the kitchen sink (and any passing pets) then it'll probably pass muster at Fashion Week.
Then again, pets in the fashion world also seem to be shrinking. Fallen down any rabbit-holes lately!? This particular 'oversized tote' is by Oak, and they weren't exaggerating with the name there. Great for slimmers, campers and those who live apart from their partners, it's a bag with a big personality and many roles.Personally, I'd just love to take that bad boy with my on my next 'big shop' at Waitrose....
$128 at OAK
Related: Yay or Nay: absolutely massive handbags | Are women's handbags getting lighter?
Aside from the copious basket-weaving, more folksy styling is coming our way in the form of patchwork this summer. Quite a few designers have opted to include the heart motif in their styles too, notably Marc Jacobs, who's brought out a range of these tote bags, each decorated with a slightly different variation on the red and blue style shown here.
Tory Burch has gone for a similar effect, with stylised leopard print instead of patchwork. It's a slightly more city-chic version of the same look. If either particularly appeals to you, there's not much difference in cost, but I'm certain we can expect to see similar styles appearing for a tenner on the high street soon. Cynical, moi?
Tory Burch nylon 'Ella' tote: £169 at Net-a-Porter
Marc by Marc Jacobs zip-away heart bag: £131 at MyTheresa
On a recent whizz around Marks and Sparks, The Bag Lady has been eyeing up all the fabulous designer-alike options in the accessories aisle once again. This padlock tote bag, which is a bit like a more streamlined, contemporary version of a Mulberry style is particularly chic, and it's a great price too.
The padlock-and-key charms turn this from a very formal looking accessory to one with a fun and youthful edge to it, and the high visibility zips also add a fashion twist. Who said you had to go for designer to look sharp?
£79 at M&S
Planning on going into battle any time soon? We all have to wage our own private wars, and with a piece of designer gear like this on your arm you'll be sure to survive the season in style.
The tote bag, in antique silver leather, is another example of oddly-shaped accessories that will certainly get you noticed. Shiny, tough and making the most of the metallic trend, it's lined with a black satin fabric for extra elegance and sophistication.
£343 (was £980) at The Outnet
Stella McCartney's in her element when she's working with shiny patent veggie leather, so it's no wonder she's done such a good job on this lovely red tote bag. It's a generously-sized, shapely bag with gorgeously balanced trimmings and a fun, detachable purse.
Fully lined and weatherproof, the styling and design of this bag make it a perfect all-year-round choice.
£320 (was £582) at The Outnet
Related: Stella McCartney textured satin clutch bag in yellow | Stella McCartney patent black clutch bag with silver eyelets
This new tote from Paul Smith Accessories takes the term 'beach bag' a tad literally, but I love the colour scheme and just looking at that sunlit vista is reminding me that at some point, even if it's not the immediate future, we'll stop experiencing this intense cold. It's a cheering thought!
It's not immediately obvious from the small images above, but yes - that figure on the front of the bag is completely starkers. Bring on summer!
£55 at My-Wardrobe
Anya Hindmarch could be accused of stating the obvious a little too often "I'm not a plastic bag" speaks for itself, and here's another accessory with instructions on it in case you don't know what it's for. But I have to admit I love her all the more for it. There aren't nearly enough down-to-earth attitudes in fashion.
That said, I wouldn't necessarily use this bag just for shopping, as I think it's far too pretty to be only a glorified carrier bag. I'm seeing picnics, beach parties, weekends away and plenty of overnight stays in this bag's future. The fabric is hard-wearing, the stitching top-notch.
If you like this bag and want to see similar items, it's £65 at Net-a-Porter
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