These days, it seems like everyone is carrying The Paper Bunny or Beyond The Vines bags— they’re pretty much wardrobe staples in Singapore at this point. I don’t blame y’all as they serve as a prime example of how bags don’t have to sacrifice functionality for looks.
However, if you’re looking to stand out and try something new (but still keep to that TPB or BTV vibe), there are plenty of underrated trending bag brands out there that offer the same blend of style and utility.
Plus, they’re suitable for both girls and guys!
1. The Sophia Label
Starting strong is The Sophia Label, a lifestyle brand that is soon joining the ranks of Singapore’s pride and joy. Their bags are made with just two intentions in mind: functionality and timelessness.
Here, their Cosy series reigns supreme. The Puffy Tote (S$65.90) is essentially a dupe for the famous puffy bag that everyone knows about but it spots a more minimalistic front.
This series is so popular that it has spawned other iterations, including the Puffy Crossbody Bag (S$59.90), Puffy Clutch Bag (S$39.90), and even Laptop Bag (S$62.90).
Buy here.
2. thegreyspace.co
Another worthy competitor in the homegrown fashion department is thegreyspace.co, where you can find school or work-appropriate bags at wallet-friendly prices. Be it their tote bags or backpacks, their products are uber comfortable to wear, so don’t be afraid to tote (no pun intended!) them around for long hours.
In case you’re wondering, yes, they do have their very own interpretation of the puffy bags. In fact, they have so many versions that it’s hard to list them all here. The Aspen PU Puffer Tote (S$59.90) and Dallas Puffer Tote (S$65.90) are what I would recommend.
Oh, and they offer personalisation services for some of their products as well, such as lanyards, cardholders, laptop sleeves, passport covers, and many more.
Buy here.
3. Stand Oil
Looking for some going-out bags? Let me draw your attention to Stand Oil. The brand hails from South Korea and has been donned by K-pop idols like (G)I-IDLE’s Yuqi and Seventeen’s Joshua. There’s no doubt that these bags will be dominating our shores in no time.
Their Radio Bag (S$72) is the perfect mini bag everyone should have in their closet. It checks all the right boxes — chic, compact, and functional. Our essentials — phone, wallet and keys — fit easily inside, with plenty of space for sunglasses, makeup and more.
If you want a similar bag shape but need to free your arms, opt for the Pleats Bag (S$98) instead.
Buy here.
4. Squareline
South Korea is killing it in their bag game lately and Squareline is one example. The fashion label is a love letter to streetwear fans and you can expect to. Shop from a collection of modern yet edgy casual and dressy bags.
The Layer Big (S$72) and Iker Iker (S$79) are two bags that can fit everything and anything, and are suitable for all genders. With a similar design to Uniqlo’s viral Puffy Bag, these bags can come through at all times whether they’re used for school, work, travel or the gym.
For something trendier, the Reverie Levery (S$72) or Mario Mario (S$79) spots a rectangular shape with elongated shoulder straps — a design that all fashionistas should own for the summer of 2024.
Buy here.
5. COS
This brand needs no introduction, as one of the most popular underrated trending bag brands out there (is it ironic?). COS is the slightly more expensive sister of H&M and is known for their basics and more masculine-focused designs.
But probably their best sold product is the Quilted Bag — thanks to Blackpink’s Jennie who snapped a photo of herself wearing the Oversized Shoulder Bag (S$175). If this size is too enormous for your liking, the Micro Bag (S$69.90) will be right up your alley.
However, you should know that the small sizes tend to sell out quickly, so if i were you, i wouldn’t think twice and just grab them if you spot them in stores. Trust me, it’ll be worth every penny.
Buy here.
6. Good Totes
Good Totes went viral on TikTok and for all the good reasons. At a time when people were sourcing for practical tote bags that catered the organised freaks, Good Totes came through with their Going Places Tote (S$45.90).
Boasting two outer pockets, three inner pockets and one zipper compartment, the tote bag is for anyone who hates having to dig through their bag for small items like keys or lip balm. It’s also crafted from waterproof canvas, making it highly durable.
The brand has since expanded their range of products 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).
Buy here.
7. Doughnut Official
Doughnut Official is a Hong Kong-based company that is slowly gaining a global presence — and rightfully so. While the brand started out specialising in backpacks, they now offer a wide range of crossbody, convertible and bum bags.
For all my coquette-obsessed girlies, their Softies series will be your weakness. The Eclair Ribbon Crossbody Bag (S$60) looks as good as it sounds, spotting a croissant shape with two ribbons in the front. Choose the Chalk x Pink, Lilac x Pink and Lilac colourways for the ultimate ballet-core, or the Silver or Black to inject some chicness.
Take it from me when I say their Canele Crossbody Bag (from S$70) also makes for a pretty good dupe for the famous Chanel 22 tote bag.
Buy here.
8. DER KOFFER
This is another South Korean bag label that I’m sure will hit big very soon. DER KOFFER is for the girls (and guys!) who either go big or go home, especially when it comes to colours. So, don’t expect just neutrals here.
Their Candy Bags (from S$50) are cute beyond words and can elevate any casual outfit. Available in two materials — Canvas and Enamel, the bags come in a variety of colours, from striking Red and Blue to softer Baby Pink and Violet.
Other bags worth taking a look at are the Sugar Bag (S$97), Bucket Bag (S$79) and Halbmond (S$68).
Buy here.
9. VegieBag
Everyone loves canvas bags as they’re not only easily washable but also durable yet stylish, making them an excellent choice for those who like to throw everything and anything into their bag. And no brand makes canvas bags as perfect as VegieBag from Japan.
The VegieBag Square (S$69) is the structured tote bag that everyone needs in their life, featuring a spacious main compartment able to fit a 13-inch laptop, multiple inner pockets and even a water bottle pocket on the side.
The VegieBag Mini Square (S$55) and VegieBag Flap (S$59) are its smaller counterparts, suitable for dress-down days when you have fewer items to carry around.
Buy here.
10. The Everyday Club
I guess it’s only fitting that we end this list of underrated trending bag brands with a local brand. The Everyday Club, as its name suggests, offers products that can serve as your emotional support on a daily basis. Think soft and comfy bags that can double up as a pillow to make long travels a little more comfortable.
Their Large Pillow Bag (S$75) is designed with that exact purpose in mind. Aside from securely holding your 14-inch laptop, it can also be used for short naps at school or work (not that I’m encouraging this!).
Their Cushion Bag (S$75) and Bun Bag (S$56) are likewise super soft to the touch and feature a ton of storage pockets and an adjustable strap.
While you’re at it, why not pair your bag with their Everyday Puffy Pouch (from S$30), which you can use to store your stationeries, makeup or whatever you want.
Buy here.
With these underrated trending bag brands, you can easily elevate your fashion game by being different from the masses.
Which of these bags have caught your eye?
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