IMAGE: BAGAHOLICBOY

A question I get asked often, is simply this: ‘I’m thinking of starting a proper bag collection, but besides all the runway/seasonal options out there, what are the basics/classics I should consider? Bags that are a little bit quirky/special, bags that I can use over and over and most importantly bags that won’t look out of place in my wardrobe over time.’ Well, here’s your answer.

IMAGE: BAGAHOLICBOY

For starters, you’ll want pieces that are classic-looking, but with a twist. Take for example Victoria Beckham’s Vanity Mini Leather Tote (USD2118). Inspired by the salaryman’s suitcase, imagine it shrunken into a 21 cm by 15.5 cm structured body that’s finished with a top handle. Detailed with a gold-tone hardware clasp and a mirror on the inside (you know, for emergency touch-ups), you can use it as it is (clean and minimal) or go crazy and jazz it up. Wrap a thin silk twill around the handle, add a bag charm, you know what I mean.

Colour is something else you could consider, and while your whites/black/greys are good, they can get a tad boring over time. My advice? Go for bright colours but nothing hideous like fluorescent lime green. Think rich browns, soothing greens, even brights like red. And if you’re looking for one in that colour, here are two to choose from. First up, the Cube from The Volon (USD860). As the name suggests, the adorable boxy bag with a top handle is almost cube-like. Also comes with its own shoulder sling, which is an added bonus.

Then there’s Roksanda Illincic’s Besa (USD1032), another uniquely shaped bag that also has a single top handle. Measuring some 18 cm by 15 cm, not only is the leather sling’s wavy pattern visually interesting, this is another bag that’s destined to be a classic in years to come.

Last, but by no means least, here’s something for the diehard hipster in you. Yes, I’m talking about Cult Gaia, but if the all-bamboo version has become too ‘influencer’ for you, how about the one in acrylic? Yes, there’s a full jet-black one and it’s still pretty affordable as well, priced at just over USD207.

So, there you have it. Classic good looks, inspired shapes, bright colours and even that something quirky for the hipster in you, all of which are classics-in-the-making that will form a great foundation for your bag collection. And yes, they are all available via NET-A-PORTER now. #happyshopping

Images: Bagaholicboy
This is a special created in collaboration with NET-A-PORTER