Extra large shoulder bag
We do love a new bag. Whether you carry everything or just the essentials, a bag needs to be practical and feel right for you — your style, your personality, your story. Here are my tips for choosing well.
So here are some of my tips to consider when choosing the best bag for you
1. Consider the occasion Is this for every day, days out, work, or a special event? For active days, a shoulder bag or rucksack is ideal since you might be carrying it for hours. If you have young children or simply prefer your hands free, a crossbody bag is a brilliant choice. Shoulder bags work well for work and meetings, while clutch bags and handbags come into their own for evenings and formal occasions when you want something beautiful without carrying much.
Tweed shoulder bag - Tapsalteerie
2. Comfort matters more than you think Consider the weight of the bag before you add your belongings — that alone can make a huge difference, especially if you're walking far. Look for wide, padded straps that won't dig into your shoulder. Rucksacks are wonderfully practical here, distributing weight evenly across your back while still looking stylish.
Tweed Rucksack
3. Do you love it? Do you lean towards a classic, timeless piece, or something more dramatic and statement-making? Perhaps you're drawn to artisan fabrics — vintage, eclectic, or with a strong sense of place. You might prefer something feminine with florals, or clean and contemporary. For the truly one-of-a-kind pieces, you'll often need to look to independent makers and designers rather than the high street.
Clutch bags you can use as a purse
4. Think about the design details Beyond the overall look, it's worth thinking about what's inside. Do you need multiple pockets and compartments to keep things organised, or do you prefer a clean, uncluttered interior? At minimum, a dedicated pocket for your phone and bank cards is genuinely useful — particularly for evenings when you'd rather leave a bulky purse behind. Versatility is worth considering too: some bags earn their keep by adapting to different situations, like a rucksack that shifts from both shoulders to one, a clutch with a detachable chain, or a purse small enough to slip inside a larger bag but smart enough to carry alone.
Cornish Tartan bag with detachable chain
5. Where did your bag come from? I always think about the person who made something when I wear or use it — it just makes it feel so much more special. It might matter to you too to know where the fabrics came from: are they locally woven, fair trade, or upcycled? Or have they travelled halfway across the world under unknown conditions? Buying from an artisan maker with a clear story and good values gives your purchase a meaning that a mass-produced bag simply can't match.
6. Could it be commissioned? If this is a gift, a special occasion, or you have something specific in mind, have you considered having a bag made for you? It could be in your family tartan, in a fabric to match an outfit, or even made from a beloved jacket that no longer fits. It sounds expensive, but you might be surprised — and you'll end up with something made precisely for you that no one else has.
No matter what you're looking for, the most important question is: will it bring you joy every time you use it? If the answer is yes, it's worth the investment.