Bag Theory

Level One: the silly little “going out” bag. Phone wallet keys type of bag. Maybe you can add a lipstick if you’re lucky. Perhaps the greatest potential for ridiculous glamour, novelty shapes and fun texture lies here.

Level Two: I call this the weekend bag. Level two bags can fit everything in level 1, plus a notebook or novel. It’s the perfect companion to a Sunday coffee shop. This bag is the aspirational bag, the one we’d use all the time if only we could, if it weren’t for the burdens of work or school. The level two bag should reflect the essence of the weekend with comfortable shape and effortlessly chic style.

Level Three: level three bags can fit everything from a level 2, plus a laptop. This is a 9-5 bag, a lecture hall bag, a working girl bag. Bonus if you can squeeze in a snack. The utility of this bag necessitates sturdy fabrics and materials like canvas, leather or nylon. Really you should be using a backpack at this level, but where’s the fun in that.