Staff Picks: Marie France Asia’s favourite bags

Accessories may complete an outfit but a bag flaunted on the nook of your arms makes for the perfect statement piece.

Whether it’s a quirky miniature clutch or a roomy functional tote, these are just some of the bags we love toting around.

Rana – Editor-in-Chief

Classic Graffiti Beirut, Sarah’s Bag, approx. SGD143

“While I love and cherish my collection of vintage Chanel minis – which are my ‘go-to’ arm candy for any event or night out – the bags I consider my favourite are those from my home-grown philanthropic and equally stylish label Sarah’s Bag.

Yes, again I’m being biased but the Beirut-based and now internationally-available label whose bags were seen on the likes of Catherine Deneuve, Queen Rania of Jordan and lately Amal Clooney, trumps all when it comes to its uniqueness, style and culture-relevance – or nostalgia if you want.

While my Sarah’s Bag collection is ever-expanding, my favourite of all has to be the Classic Graffiti Beirut clutch that displays a real-life graffiti found in the city, which reads ‘Beirut never dies’ in Arabic. Having seen the real thing and being so far from home – this is the clutch I carry whenever I feel homesick.”

Tarandip – Fashion & Beauty Writer

“Without a doubt I would fawn over a classic Chanel flap bag or a roomy Celine tote but if asked what my favourite is – one that I would pass down to my future kids – would be a specially crafted leather bag monogrammed with my initials. Now that would be special.”

Shannon – Editorial Assistant & Writer

Sac de Jour small leather tote, Saint Laurent, approx. SGD3576

“With a rather large collection of bags handed down by my mother, I won’t deny that they’re some of my collectable items. And When it comes to bags, I’m always on the lookout for something that isn’t too bulky but can still hold all of my belongings – including my MacBook Air. Stylish, sleek and ultra-versatile, Saint Laurent’s Sac de Jour small leather tote is definitely my most coveted, and cherished bag. ”

Annabelle – Fashion & Beauty Writer

Lindy Bag, Hermés, Price upon request

“I’m really picky when it comes to bags but this bag of dreams that is Hermés’ Lindy practically ticks all the right boxes in terms of shape, functionality and versatility. It balances the slouchy-yet-simultaneously-structured shape to perfection, and literally doubles as the black hole for my belongings when I’m in a rush. Simply wrap a scarf around the handles to fit the mood of the day and it will go with any outfit from your wardrobe.”

Lindsay – Fashion Tech & Lifestyle Writer/ Translator

Lucrezia embellished wool crepe clutch, Dolce & Gabbana, approx. SGD3880

“I’m so in love with this super chic and ultra-embellished handbag – perfect for chic evening outings! It is clearly on the top of my current wish list!”

Laura – Business Development Manager

Fly violet by O my bag, approx. SGD470

“My friends make fun of me by calling me the brand’s self-appointed ambassador for being obsessed by it! I just love the eco leather and its light brown shade that gives it a vintage, industrial feel! It’s so easy to match and it’s the best bag to be carrying around on a lazy Sunday stroll. It’s the most popular one of the O my bag designs but just the ‘fly violet’ model has so many material variations that you can choose one that best suits your style!”

Aline – Audience Product Manager

“Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Balmain… I can probably name more than 10 luxury bags that I like at the moment. But, in fact my (really) favorite bag has no name or rather comes from a little-known designer.

I value the product itself over brand name. So, for me the perfect one should be black, in soft leather but cut and shaped with precision.”