
Bags of style
From backpacks to briefcases, get back to business with our edit of the most versatile bags available from an array of boutiques at The Royal Exchange
09 September, 2019
Whether you’re in need of a stylish way to carry your tech and everyday essentials or a gym bag that looks smart enough to take along to a meeting, The Royal Exchange has something to meet all requirements for the modern Londoner.
BLACK OUT
Black goes with everything and Montblanc’s Sartorial Jet Duffle will happily accompany you on a weekend away or an overnight business trip. Smythson also keeps it professional with the neat-and-tidy Burlington Business Backpack, while Tiffany & Co.’s Tote will take you seamlessly from the office to post-work drinks, dinner and beyond.
Tote in black grain calfskin leather, £1,450 (embossing POA), Tiffany & Co.; Burlington Business Backpack, £1,095, Smythson; Sartorial Jet Duffle Large, £595, Montblanc; all available at The Royal Exchange
CATCH A TAN
Tan-coloured accessories are a good alternative to black when it comes to versatility, and have the added benefit of working particularly well with a multi-seasonal wardrobe. The Equestrian bucket bag from Smythson has a unique, capacious silhouette, while the subtle coral and black stripe detail of Hermès’ Saut bag adds an element of fun. The Madison Tote from Aspinal of London offers convenient options with both carry handles and a shoulder strap.
Madison Tote in smooth tan, £695, Aspinal of London; Saut bag in Faubourg calfskin, £4,300, Hermès; Equestrian bucket bag in saddle leather, £795, Smythson; all available at The Royal Exchange
BERRY NICE
For a more individual approach, deep berry red tones add the perfect autumnal accent to your attire. Hermès’ chic Mosaique 24 bag is sharp and understated, while SageBrown’s Stafford Explorer is roomy and practical. For sleek, professional sophistication, the Slim Case from Smythson is hard to beat.
Mosaique 24 Bag in Epsom calfskin, £5,270, Hermès; Stafford Explorer in dark tan, £375, SageBrown; Slim Case in crossgrain leather in mahogany, £850, Smythson; all available at The Royal Exchange
NEUTRAL TERRITORY
For minimalists looking for a compact companion to carry all the essentials in, these nude-toned cross-body bags are light, sleek and understated. The Hermès 2002 bag whispers of refinement, while the tassles of SageBrown’s Polly Woven Camera Bag add a subtle playful flair. The quilted leather of Pretty Ballerinas’ Small Handbag embodies all the luxury without being showy.
2002 Bag in Evercolor calfskin and lacquered clasp, £5,959, Hermès; Polly Woven Camera Bag in taupe, £210, SageBrown; Small handbag with chain strap in soft make up pink quilted leather, £239, Pretty Ballerinas; all available at The Royal Exchange
IN THE NAVY
Timeless and full of class, deep navy blue will always be a chic alternative to black. The soft Hobo bag from Aspinal of London is perfect for everyday essentials, while the Montblanc Nightflight backpack is practical and comfortable for the commute or a business trip. The nickel brass lock of the SageBrown Vintage Wall Street Briefcase proves this is a bag that marries style and substance.
My Montblanc Nightflight Medium Backpack, £560, Montblanc; Hobo bag in navy pebble, £350, Aspinal of London; Vintage Wall Street Briefcase in navy with silver nickle brass lock, £445, SageBrown; all available at The Royal Exchange
Discover all of the above and many more bags in all shapes and size at The Royal Exchange’s exceptional array of boutiques