The other day I was in a shop, a regular kind of shop, and I witnessed something that made me a little bit happy. The shop assistant – a regular kind of man, early twenties at a guess, openly harranged a customer, loudly and without embarrassment, about his decision to insist on a huge plastic bag, despite his very tiny purchase (four batteries). This cheered me up no end, and for a second, I felt a glimmer of hope for humankind.
Plastic bags have become something rather shameful and old fashioned. Demanding one now seems very petulant and diva-ish, and a missed opportunity to totally accessorise your groceries. Think of the shopper bag as the forth dimension of style; a well chosen tote says more about you and your philosophy than a designer handbag ever could.
Proof positive that the plastic years will soon be consigned to history, there are loads of great tote bags around , they are widely available, and already have cult status (I'm not a plastic bag anyone?). Here are some that jumped out at me, all beautiful in their own way, well designed, and above all, useful! And just the thing for batteries.
Practical and aesthetically pleasing tote - £26
From Erin at Folksy
Looks very sturdy and has inside pockets, is fully lined, really nice simple design, matching make-up bag also available (but not included – exciting coordination opportunity!).
Chintz frenzy tote - £20
From Penny Fancy Bags at Folksy
Great shape, wonderful fabric, very deep with interior pocket and ribbon tie. A very sweet and unusual bag.
Tartan madness - £25
From The Girl From The North Country at Folksy
Love the handle, and the mixed up tartan is ace. Two inside pockets and nicely lined. Not massive but enough for the ten items or less aisle.
Woven from waterlilies $30
From Elegance Thai at Etsy
Lovely shopping bag, zips up and inner pockets – the distinctive multicoloured fibre is striking and unusual.
Blow the budget - $95
From Minus at Etsy
Beautifully simple style, and I love the slouch. Looks well crafted and designed, and takes a good amount of stuff thanks to the fold top.
Geometric psychedelic - $16
From jgnerer at Etsy
Simple bag, but nicely done and I love the fabric! A great splash of colour – feed your inner raver.
Feisty pattern, happy colours - $22
From Darumado
Designed for lunch, so a bit of a diversion, but a great replacement for smaller plastic bags. Great print, comes with matching fabric case for utensils and machine washable.
Many good bags, innovative idea
Bags of Change
From Bags of Change
Bags of change create lovely vibrant eco shoppers and totes, with a clever twist – just show your bag to participating shops and receive discounts on local and sustainable goods. A shopping bag that saves you money on shopping – inspired.
Sophy Colbert
