Did you watch Succession? It was a brilliant show made by HBO based on the Murdochs and building a media empire.

If you did you’ll remember Tom Wambsgans delivering one of the most memorable fashion put-downs. He mocked a guest for bringing what he described as a “ludicrously capacious bag”.

Because apparently no one with impeccable taste (or bank balance to match) should require enough room for flat shoes, lunch or anything remotely practical.

The scene instantly became part of fashion folklore.

The Bag That Does It All

The irony, of course, is that in real life, a capacious bag is exactly what many of us need.

As I packed for a few days in Comporta last week, I realised there’s a gap in my wardrobe that I’ve been trying to fill for years… I own city bags. I own beach bags.

But I don’t own the one that comfortably lives in both worlds. The one you carry at the airport with your magazine selection, Pret buffet and Boots haul and then comes straight to the beach to carry towels, sunscreen and books.

A bag that can cope with a little sand, the occasional splash of seawater and a day spent outdoors. Then, when I’m back in London, I want exactly the same bag to carry my laptop to meetings or transport colour drapes and wardrobe pieces for client appointments.

It sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly difficult to find.

For me, the ‘does it all’ tote has a specific checklist…

• It sits comfortably on the shoulder.
• It should have some form of closure — a press stud, tab or magnetic fastening
• Ideally, it has both shoulder straps and shorter top handles, giving you different ways to carry it depending on what the day looks like. (My Acne Musubi Bag has this and I love it)
• Inside, I’d love at least one pocket or a removable pouch for the inevitable small essentials that have a tendency to disappear into the abyss.

Material matters just as much as the finish.

I’m drawn towards refined canvas and elevated woven fabrics but it needs an element of leather whether a trim or handle to elevate it. I’m also attracted to technical textiles that some of the best contemporary brands use.

Colour is equally important.

A neutral works easily with almost everything I wear, although I also love the idea of an all-black version with interesting texture for year-round use.

The challenge is finding something that feels considered rather than overly casual or too ‘beach’ nor do I want a structured leather work bag that’s terrified of a grain of sand.

I’m looking for the elegant middle ground… that’s all…

The more I write the more it feels like an impossible ask!

But there are brands that specialise in exactly this kind of understated practicality, alongside ready to wear brands creating beautifully designed oversized totes that can genuinely do it all.

So I’ve rounded up the bags currently on my wish list — the ones I think strike that elusive balance between city sophistication and coastal ease.

Because sometimes the most useful item doesn’t make you look your most refined.

It just goes everywhere with you.

P.S. If you’ve ever bought a beautiful bag only to realise it doesn’t actually work with most of your wardrobe or your life for that matter, you’re not alone.

Sometimes it’s not about buying another bag—it’s about buying the right one for you. Let us help. Book your call here.

Photo Credit: Vogue Runway The Row