Bag to the future

To say I love bags is an understatement. My obsession has reached addiction levels. Now don’t get alarmed. I’m not talking about expensive “it” bags.

I like those too, but I’m equally happy to receive a $17 canvas bag from Marc Jacobs.

‘Twas my friend Michael who pointed out my taste for bags is very Japanese. Must’ve been all that time looking at Japanese magazines while growing up.

One of the things I love about Japanese magazines is how they show all these bags all in one go, like a catalogue.  No fancy photo shoots necessary.

At that time there was no Internet and bag choices in Manila were almost nonexistent. I would lay in bed looking at these things I wish I had access to. So whenever I could travel I would buy a bag or three.

Times have changed. These days there are more options in Metro Manila running from cheap to chic.

That’s the idea for this story. I went around and took photos at stores that allowed me to. Now have a look and see which one suits you.

1. Want a wheeled bag that doesn’t scream luggage? Carry your laptop and stuff in this wheeled leather and canvas bag by Gogo Voyage. Save your arms and back from pain. This was designed by an American mother of three, married to a chiropractor. P18,500 at Rustan’s Makati.

2. You can’t go wrong with gold eco-friendly bag by Bench? Only P50. Wish I had seen this earlier. Would’ve bought tons for holiday giveaways. I have it and I love the way this brightens up any outfit.

3. Just when I thought Bench had the cutest 50-peso eco bag, here comes Human’s version in polka-dotted silver. This one looks almost Prad-ish.

4. I really love the affordable line of bags DKNY has been coming up with lately. Discovered them in Singapore and was so pleased to see a small selection at Rustan’s Makati. Note to self: must check stock at Rockwell. I can’t stop thinking about this urban rushed modern satchel at Rustan’s Makati, P8,450.

5. Another brand that’s coming up with nice affordable stuff is Calvin Klein, with a large selection at Rustan’s Shangri-La. I love their very well-thought-out canvas bags, it’s hard to choose one. P4,650.

6. I love the prices of the Progres bags at the luggage section of Rustan’s Shangri-La. These bags are so Japanese with many compartments. This powder-blue horizontal nylon bag comes in three sizes, plus a soft carry-on. P2,490.

7. This black canvas Calvin Klein bag is shaped like a long Speedy or Boston bag. So tempting. Unisex, too. P2,650 at Rustan’s Shangri-La.

8. This beige Slazenger bag doesn’t have that many features but is striking in person. For the hip minimalist. P2,990 at Rustan’s Shangri-La.

9. I love the variety of prints you can find at the Reef corner of the swimwear section of Rustan’s Shangri-La. This large tote bag features a nice contrast with the checks and flower print. P1,295.

10. Homme et Femme at Shangri-La Plaza has a new delivery of Balenciaga bags you should see in person. Call 633-7009.

11. Another variation of Balenciaga’s Lune collection is this handbag in olive at Homme et Femme, Shangri-La Plaza. P106,498. Call 633-7009.

12. This large Marni balloon bag in leather comes in several colors. Hard to miss at Homme et Femme, Shangri-La Plaza. P 52,898. Call 633-7009.

13. I got the extra large version of this DNKY canvas bag in Singapore. This petite version with the side pockets is so adorable. P4,250 at Rustan’s Makati.

14. If you’re a gal on the go who loves all things kikay, look no further than this velvety, extra-large Juicy Couture train case. P7,750 at Rustan’s Makati.

15. It’s hard to pass up on this cute little Fluff cosmetic kit for girls who carry a minimal amount of supplies. P1,250 at Rustan’s Makati.

16. First spotted this charming Longchamp Le Pliage Dessinee embroidered tote in Taiwan and I fell in love. This lightweight nylon tote with leather shoulder straps folds up for travel use. P7,950 at Rustan’s Makati.

 17. Any retro-loving girl would adore this computer case at Culte Femme. Sure doesn’t look like your typical workbag. Only P2,150 at Rustan’s Shang and Makati.

18. Not all moms are into baby-colored baby bags; I know I wasn’t. I love this roomy black nylon diaper bag from DKNY Baby. It’s good enough for daddy and chic enough for mommy even when baby’s no longer in nappies. P6,650 at Rustan’s Makati.

19. This extra-large Dessinee embroidered tote by Longchamp can be used for beach, travel, baby or high-maintenance chick who wants to carry her entire house about. P 12,500 at Rustan’s Makati.