In the rabbit hole of “What’s in My Bag” videos, you’ll find a girl on the other side of the screen searching for her next everyday bag — me. I recently started a new role, and as part of a personal tradition, that means one thing: a new bag. I get a new bag every time I start a new job. Usually, I give myself one to three months to find the bag for the new era.
I have a few non-negotiables for what makes a great bag; it has to tick every box. It should be big enough to fit a 15-inch laptop, roomy enough for a lunch box (if I decide to pack one), with space for a small cosmetics pouch for quick touch-ups, and still have extra room for the bits and pieces that join me along the way. Most importantly, it needs to be high-quality and durable.
Lately, I’ve been on the lookout, and I’ve found four bags, perfect for everyday, that just might make the cut to my collection and yours.
FOM Tina – Pebble Black
The first bag on the list is the Freedom of Movement (FOM) TINA in Black Pebble. This bag has become a cult favourite and for good reason. I’ve been eyeing it for weeks, mostly because of the glowing reviews. Designed to meet the everyday needs of women, its functionality and simplicity are what truly make it stand out.
It might not be the most revolutionary design, but its quality and understated elegance give it a timeless, effortless chic. It pairs beautifully with just about any outfit. The bag is spacious enough to fit a 16.5-inch laptop and, honestly, maybe even your whole life.
Dyad Tote Bag in Olive
Dyad is one of those brands that truly stand out when it comes to unique handbags. Their pieces are beautiful and effortlessly elevate any outfit, and this classic tote is no exception. It comes in several versions, all equally stunning, but the olive tone steals the show.
The design strikes the perfect balance: simple enough to complement any look, yet structured enough to stand out. Crafted with a single rope strap that runs along the bottom for even weight distribution, the tote showcases innovation through subtle, thoughtful details that add to its charm. It’s durable, spacious, and easily fits all your everyday essentials.
Dyad Ripple Tote in Black / Stone
Another bag from Dyad, I know, but their designs are just too good to resist. This tote features two contrasting colours and Dyad’s signature wavy silhouette. Like the previous Dyad bag, it comes in several beautiful variations, but I chose this one because it’s the most versatile. It adapts effortlessly to different outfits and colour palettes; it can make the look, or be the look.
If you love compliments, this bag will definitely earn you plenty. It’s a soft leather everyday tote, slightly smaller than the previous one, but still roomy enough to hold all your essentials. Plus, the adjustable strap adds that perfect touch of practicality.
ANTELO Emmy unlined Leather Tote
The Merlot edition of ANTELO’s Emmy is easily one of the most beautiful shades of red I’ve ever seen on a bag. I have the honour of owning another ANTELO piece, and it’s my favourite bag in my collection. Their bags are exceptionally well made, the leather looks even more beautiful in person, and the antique brass hardware adds a timeless touch. Like all the bags I’ve mentioned, the Emmy fits your everyday essentials as well as your work or university tech.
If it were up to me, I’d get all of these bags, but I’m not quite there yet. What makes them even more special is that they’re all from South African brands, each showcasing exceptional craftsmanship that could easily rival major international labels. I’ve really enjoyed discovering some of these smaller local brands creating beautiful leather pieces. Who knows, your next favourite bag might just be on this list.
