It’s time to think of a bag as more than just a receptacle for your stuff – it should be seen as part of your outfit, like everything else you wear.
A backpack worn on both shoulders is a kinder choice for your back. It also works on a bike and is roomy enough for a day at the office followed by a trip to the supermarket. Go for a bright print for extra cheer, or a dark colour to ensure your bag goes with anything.
Singer Harry Styles and footballer Dominic Calvert-Lewin have recently carried handbags. You can explore this fashion-forward trend by renting Loewe’s Puzzle, a modern classic whatever your gender.
Shopping secondhand for bags means getting a label like Off-White for less. An army surplus satchel fits into the camo trend and is also a great way to carry home the shopping. Lauren Cochrane
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Buy
Padded backpack, £95, eastpak x aries, brownsfashion.com
Lift an all-black outfit with a bold graphic print.
Recycled nylon tote, £39, arket.com
This versatile bag folds up into a handy pouch.
Vegan-friendly rucksack, £175, allycapellino.co.uk
Stash your laptop in style in this water-repellent commuter bag.
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Rent
Givenchy Antigona U bag, from £129.58 for four days, selfridgesrental.com
Upgrade your crossbody bag game with serious hardware.
Loewe Puzzle bag,cocoon.club
£99 a month with two swaps. Make this the centrepiece of your going-out look or dress it down with jeans and trainers.
Burberry giant tote, from £121 for four days, hurrcollective.com
A roomy tote will double as a chic weekend bag over the holiday season.
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Thrift
Military satchel, £19.49, surplusandlost.co.uk
Stuff all your essentials in a tried-and-tested army surplus kit bag.
Off-white drawstring, £159.99, vestiairecollective.com
Elevate your trackpants with this stylish alternative to a regular sports bag.
Palace rucksack, £100, depop.com
A sleek option for carrying your gym kit.
