Large handbag - alternative??

[myheartburnstheretoo7]

I know the word ‘frumpy’ is frowned upon here but that’s how I feel nowadays when I use a large leather crossbody handbag. But what’s the alternative? Something that can hold quite a bit, but stylish, suitable for travelling about for a day, hands free…

Uniqlo round mini shoulder bags, yuo can fit loads in them, comfy and cheap so yuo can get a couple of different colours if you want. Leather is what makes it frumpy I think?

@shardlakemyes, it’s probably that. A small leather handbag seems fine - it’s when I get out one of my old large ones I feel…wrong!

So I bought the Uniqlo bag…and it’s too small! Can’t fit my stuff in it. Back to the drawing board.

How much stuff do you need to fit in? Do you need to transport a laptop, loads of make-up, or something else?

Not for everyone…but I love Suffolk Carpet bags. I have a few different sizes and colours and i get compliments everywhere. They are craftsman-made in actual Suffolk!

Some on eBay too. They last a lifetime but are not for those who follow fashion or who want a super-smart business look.

I have a bag from fatface, woven/tapestry type. Perfect for all day

Something like this leather backpack which can be used as a shoulder bag or when you need hands free, on your back. https://www.geox.com/en-GB/backpack-off_white-irenie_woman-D25JVA00046C1002.html

This is nice too https://www.jigsaw-online.com/products/pebble-leather-backpack-black

I did wonder about a leather backpack although the security aspect concerns me (in crowded places etc). I guess I could wear one on my front when necessary.

Thank you! Those lovely patterns bring back memories of 6th form - there was a craze for ‘Aztec’ patterned backpacks!

purse, phone, little bag of personal bits, glasses, sunglasses, some meds, kindle…no laptop but I couldn’t get all that into the Uniqlo. (Shame as it’s nice!)

I've got this one from Next. Its a good price and holds quite a lot. Loads of colours available.

https://www.next.co.uk/style/su690988/f36703

I find a streamer cabin trunk on a robust trolley (see photo), generally suffices for a day (and evening too, if no 'touch-up makeup' is required).

Looks pretty good. Sturdy and pickpocket-proof.

It's not to everyone's taste but I have the Kipling gabbie s, the perfect size for all you mentioned.
My kindle fits in the zipped front section, pockets for meds, the main compartment is big enough for my phone, drink bottle, small makeup bag, glasses, small purse and a spare folded up tote bag.

I got mine at an outlet store (Cheshire oaks), they always look better real life imo

I have a lovely leather handbag and a few other sizes bags but this is my favourite especially when I'm going into the city or travelling.

eu.kipling.com/en-gb/products/gabbie-s-kpki253177w

Leather backpacks are extremely secure. I'd only be concerned if I was on a crowded/jammed space and someone could unzip a front pocket - but the same would apply to a shoulder bag.

Thank you! I do like Kipling.

@poshcrispsI’m now browsing some lovely leather backpacks…

I felt the same last month, and treated myself to this. It's a lovely, soft suede. I work in central London and am a bit paranoid about phone theft, so was pleased that there's a secure zipped section, which yesterday easily fitted two mobiles, keys and a wallet in. The main part of the bag comfortably fits my paperback, small water bottle, Uniqlo jacket and about fifteen lipsalves, and comfortably carried it around all day. The shoulder strap can be adjusted to make it cross body or to be carried on the shoulder. Really pleased with it, just as good as the more expensive bags with branding on them, and I like that it isn't branded :) Melfi Suede Bucket Tote Bag – Betsy & Floss

That is truly lovely!! And as far from ‘frumpy’ as it’s possible to be. I wonder how hard-wearing suede is, though? I have memories of suede boots that went sort of bald looking…but of course a bag is different from boots you tramp about in.

I don't like the small ones but they do a larger version which is perfect.

@CoccinelleHeureuse That looks really nice. Simple and stylish.

I'm sure you've figured this, but the thing that makes a bag look frumpy is the cross body style. Uniqlo round bags, the newest trendiest bum bags, etc are the exception, but they don't fit much. I'd look for a shoulder bag with a strap that sits comfortably on your shoulder, and a shape that sits nicely against your side. The Melfi Suede bag is a nice example.

I like Coach bags. They are expensive but very well made and nice styles.

Blonde mania bag. Stopped a lady at a car boot to compliment her bag and then brought one for myself of Vinted, beautiful quality

There’s a bigger one. Roka bags are good as are Longchamp totes