6 Bags our Digital Content Producer is loving right now

I don't think I've ever really been a bag girl — at least, not until I started working and realised that carrying a laptop backpack around was seriously cramping my style. I like to think I'm a fairly stylish person, so I had to start looking at bags a little differently. Suddenly, it wasn't just about finding something that could fit my laptop; I wanted something that worked with my personal style, added something to an outfit and, most importantly, didn't look like I was carrying my entire office around.

So, I've been paying much closer attention to the bags catching my eye — from bold colours and playful prints to beautiful leather, interesting textures and practical shapes. And while I don't actually own any of these bags (yet), I think it's perfectly okay to dream a little. Here are six bags currently sitting very high on my wishlist.

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I have a thing for bags that don't take themselves too seriously, and this Cherry Pink and Red Striped Duffle from Elizabeth Summer immediately caught my attention. The combination of pink and red feels fun and unexpected, but what I really love is that it is not just a pretty bag. It is designed with practicality in mind, with plenty of space, side pockets and an additional adjustable strap.

I would probably use this for everything from a weekend away to a day at the beach or even as a gym bag. I like pieces that can have a little personality while still being genuinely useful, and this one does exactly that. It is currently R980.

2. Porter — Lime Suede Fringe Leather Hobo & Blue and Brown Striped Hobo Shopper

I came across Porter sometime this year and immediately fell in love. It is honestly a miracle that I was even able to choose a favourite because I love all their bags. If I had to narrow it down, though, the Lime Suede Fringe Leather Hobo and Blue and Brown Striped Hobo Shopper are the two I keep coming back to.

The lime suede one speaks to my love of colour and texture — the fringe gives it that effortless, slightly bohemian feel without looking like it is trying too hard. Then there is the blue and brown striped shopper, which feels like the perfect everyday bag. I can imagine throwing everything into it and carrying it with denim, a simple white shirt or even a more dressed-up look. Basically, Porter has made choosing just one bag unnecessarily difficult.

3. Tuska Atelier — Orange Ostrich Leather Shoulder Bag

The Orange Ostrich Leather Shoulder Bag from Tuska Atelier is for the days when I want my bag to make the statement for me. I love the colour first — that bright orange is impossible to ignore — but the ostrich leather gives it a beautiful texture that makes the bold shade feel sophisticated rather than loud.

What makes this one even more appealing is that it is made in Cape Town by skilled artisans. The bag has a spacious interior, a shoulder strap and a detachable crossbody strap, so it is not just about the aesthetics. I love that it can be worn in different ways depending on the day. The orange is definitely the version I would choose because, if I am going to invest in a statement bag, I want it to actually make a statement. It is currently R5,995.

4. Saint & Summer — The Velluta Bag

There is something about the Velluta Bag by Saint & Summer that feels very me. I love a bag that looks polished without being overly formal, and the rich brown faux suede gives this one that soft, elevated feel.

The spacious interior is another reason it made my list because I am not interested in a bag that only looks good when it is empty. The comfortable shoulder strap makes it easy to wear every day, while the gold stud detailing adds just enough edge. I can see myself wearing this with jeans and a blazer during the day or a simple dress in the evening. It is currently R899.

Poetry — Alessia Laminated Canvas Tote

I love a good tote, but what makes the Alessia Laminated Canvas Tote stand out to me is how it manages to feel practical without looking overly utilitarian. Its laminated canvas has a subtle sheen and a wipe-clean finish, which is a major plus for an everyday bag — especially when, like me, you want something you can actually use without constantly worrying about it getting dirty.

I also love the generous structure. It feels like the kind of bag I could carry to the office, throw my everyday essentials into or take along for a busy day when I need a little extra space. There is something very effortless about it: polished enough to elevate a simple outfit, but practical enough to become one of those bags you reach for constantly. It is currently R1,099 on Poetry.

Good Clothing — The Summer Bunny Bag

Of course, I could not finish this list without something colourful. The Summer Bunny Bag from Good Clothing is exactly the kind of accessory that makes me happy. The multicoloured design feels playful and a little unexpected, which is exactly what I want from a statement bag.

I love that it is a piece you can build an entire outfit around. You could keep everything else simple and let the bag do all the work, or lean into the colour and pair it with other bold pieces. For me, fashion should be fun, and this bag definitely falls into that category. The Summer Bunny Bag is currently listed at R3,450, although it is marked sold out on Good Clothing's site at the moment.