It’s both functional *and* chic! Clare V. Marcelle Backpack Desert Stripe, $399, available at Cash And Clive.
My mom loves a practical handbag, especially for travel. If a nylon adjustable crossbody comes with 10 slightly hidden compartments, all fastened by zippers, she’ll likely scoop it up and add it to her ever-expanding collection.
I, however, forgo practicality at all costs. Give me a teeny Simon Miller Bonsai bag so small that it can only fit half my smartphone and a thin mint (literally just one) and I’m a happy camper.
Then I locked eyes with this mid-size leather backpack – it could fit a whole of box of Girl Scout Cookies! – at Clare V.’s boutique in Nolita, and things changed. I first fell for its pared-down Parisian aesthetic and then for the feel of its soft texturized leather.
Upon taking it for a test wear, I relished in how light and non-existent it felt delicately resting on my shoulders. I was sold. For once, I decided on a functional spring bag large enough to hold all my necessities and then some. My mom would be proud.
Clare V. Marcelle Backpack Desert Stripe, $399, available at Cash And Clive.