It seems like everyone has a Paper Bunny or Beyond The Vines bag these days – they're pretty much a wardrobe staple in Singapore – and we don't blame you, as bags are a great example of how you don't have to sacrifice functionality for looks.
But if you want to stand out and try something new (but still keep that TPB/BTV vibe), there are plenty of underrated and trendy bag brands that blend style and practicality in equal measure.
Plus, they're perfect for both girls and boys!
1. Sophia Label
Photo: The Sophia Label/facebook
Starting off strong is The Sophia Label, a lifestyle brand that will soon become Singapore's pride and joy. Their bags are made with just two purposes in mind: functionality and timeless design.
Photo: The Sophia Label/facebook
The Cosy series is the best here: the Puffy Tote (S$65.90) ​​is basically a copy of the famous Puffy bag that we all know and love, but with a more minimalist look.
Photo: The Sophia Label/facebook
The range has proven so popular that it has spawned other versions, including a Puffy Crossbody Bag (S$59.90), a Puffy Clutch Bag (S$39.90) and even a Laptop Bag (S$62.90).
Please purchase here.
2. Grey Space
Photo: Thegreyspace.co/facebook
Another strong competitor in the domestic fashion sector is thegreyspace.co, where you can find bags suitable for school or work at wallet-friendly prices. Whether tote bags or backpacks, their products are extremely comfortable to wear, so you won't be afraid to carry them around for long periods of time (no pun intended!).
Photo: Thegreyspace.co/facebook
If you're interested, yes, they have their own take on the puff bag. In fact, they have so many versions that it would be difficult to list them all here. The ones I recommend are the Aspen PU Puffer Tote (S$59.90) and the Dallas Puffer Tote (S$65.90).
Photo: Thegreyspace.co/facebook
Oh, they also offer personalization services for some of their products, including lanyards, card holders, laptop sleeves, passport covers, etc.
Please purchase here.
3. Stand Oil
Photo: StandOil/facebook
Looking for a bag to take on the go? Look no further than Stand Oil. The brand originates from Korea and is loved by K-Pop idols such as Yugi from (G)I-IDLE and Joshua from Seventeen. There's no doubt that this bag will soon take our country by storm.
Photo: StandOil/facebook
The Radio Bag (S$72) is the perfect mini bag that everyone should have in their closet. It checks all the boxes: chic, compact and functional. It easily fits the essentials like your phone, wallet and keys, with enough space for sunglasses, make-up and more.
Photo: MUSINSA
If you want a similar bag shape but want to free up your arms, opt for the Pleated Bag (S$98) instead.
Please purchase here.
4. Square Line
Photo: @squareline_official/instagram
South Korea has been making waves in the bag world lately, and Squareline is one example of this. This fashion label is a love letter to streetwear fans, so expect to shop their collection of modern, yet edgy, casual and dressy bags.
Photo: @squareline_official/instagram
The Layer Big (S$72) and Iker Iker (S$79) are versatile bags for both men and women. Designed similar to Uniqlo's much talked about Puffy bag, they are perfect for school, work, travel, the gym and any other occasion.
Photo: MUSINSA
For something on-trendier, the Reverie Levery (S$72) and Mario Mario (S$79) feature rectangular shapes and long shoulder straps, making them a must-have design for any fashionista heading into summer 2024.
Please purchase here.
5. Kos
Photo: COS/facebook
This brand needs no introduction as it is one of the most popular and underrated trending bag brands (is that ironic?) COS is a sister brand of H&M and is known for its basic, masculine designs.
But perhaps their best-selling item is the quilted bag, thanks in large part to Blackpink's Jennie, who snapped a photo of herself wearing the Oversized Shoulder Bag (S$175). If this is too bulky for your liking, the Micro Bag (S$69.90) might be just what you're looking for.
However, the smaller sizes tend to sell out quickly, so if I were you, I would grab it immediately if I saw it in a store. Trust me, it's totally worth it.
Please purchase here.
6. A good tote bag
Photo: Good Totes/facebook
Good Totes has become a TikTok sensation, and for good reason: at a time when people were clamoring for a practical tote bag for those who love to stay organized, Good Totes delivered with the Going Places Tote (S$45.90).
With two exterior pockets, three interior pockets and one zippered compartment, this tote is perfect for those who don't want to dig through their bag to find small items like keys or lip balm, and it's made from waterproof canvas for extra durability.
Photo: @goodtotes/instagram
The brand has since expanded its product range to include the Good Times Circle Tote (S$49.90), Mini Going Places Tote (S$45.90) ​​and Pillow Laptop Sleeve (from S$34.90).
Please purchase here.
7. Donut Official
Photo: @doughnutofficial/instagram
Doughnut Official is a Hong Kong-based company that is slowly building a global presence – and it's no surprise there: the brand started out specializing in backpacks, but now offers a wide range of products including crossbody bags, convertible bags, waist bags, and more.
Photo: @doughnutofficial/instagram
For all you coquette-obsessed girls, the Softies series will be your weakness. The Eclair Ribbon Crossbody Bag (S$60) looks just as good as its name suggests, with a croissant shape and two ribbons on the front. For the ultimate ballet core, choose from chalk x pink, lilac x pink and lilac colour ways, or silver or black for an extra dose of chic.
Photo: @doughnutofficial/instagram
Take my word for it, their Canelé Crossbody Bag (from S$70) also makes a pretty good knockoff of the famous Chanel 22 tote bag.
Please purchase here.
8. Der Kofer
Photo: @derkoffer_official/instagram
This is another Korean bag brand that is sure to become a big hit soon. DER KOFFER is a brand for women (and men!) who are willing to go bold or leave it out, especially when it comes to color, so don't expect only neutral colors here.
The Candy Bags (from S$50) are indescribably cute and will elevate any casual outfit. Available in two materials – canvas and enamel – the bags come in a range of colours, from vibrant reds and blues to softer baby pinks and violets.
Photo: @derkoffer_official/instagram
Other bags worth checking out include the Sugar Bag (S$97), Bucket Bag (S$79) and Halvemond (S$68).
Please purchase here.
9. Veggie Bag
Photo: @vegiebag_carryandkeep/instagram
Everyone loves canvas bags because they're easy to wash, durable and stylish. They're the perfect choice for anyone who likes to pack everything in their bag. And no one makes the perfect canvas bag like VegieBag from Japan.
The VegieBag Square (S$69) is a structured tote bag that everyone needs in their life, with a spacious main compartment that can fit a 13-inch laptop, multiple interior pockets, and even a side pocket for a water bottle.
Photo: @vegiebag_carryandkeep/instagram
The VegieBag Mini Square (S$55) and VegieBag Flap (S$59) are smaller models suitable for casual days when you don't need to carry many items.
Please purchase here.
10. Everyday Club
Photo: @theeverydayclub.co/instagram
It's only fitting that we end our list of trending and underrated bag brands with a local brand. Everyday Club, as the name suggests, offers products for your everyday comfort. Their soft and comfortable bags can double as pillows, making long journeys just that little bit more comfortable.
Their Large Pillow Bag (S$75) is designed with exactly that purpose in mind: not only can it safely store a 14-inch laptop, but it can also be used for taking a quick nap at school or work (although we're not recommending this).
Photo: THEEVERYDAYCLUB.CO/facebook
The Cushion Bag (S$75) and Bum Bag (S$56) are also super soft to the touch, with plenty of storage pockets and adjustable straps.
Photo: @theeverydayclub.co/instagram
While you're there, why not pair your bag with the Everyday Puffy Pouch (from S$30), which can hold everything from stationery to cosmetics.
Please purchase here.
These underrated and trendy bag brands will help you step up your fashion game and stand out from the crowd with ease.
Which of these bags caught your eye?
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