The Informant: The $20 Crossbody Bag I Take Absolutely Everywhere

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I love a chic bag as much as anyone. But living in New York — especially during the winter, where the weather is always a big question mark — I’ve long been on the hunt for a shoulder or crossbody bag that doesn’t look out of place in everyday settings and that can withstand the elements, at least a little bit. 

Enter the Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag. 

Full disclosure: I’d seen this bag kicking around TikTok before I actually tried it, although I’m proud to say I rarely fall for buying a viral product solely because of its hype. But one day, I passed by the SoHo Uniqlo and decided to pop in to suss it out myself. It didn’t take long for me to take a chance on it. Its crescent shape has a sleek, minimalist aesthetic; it comes in muted neutral shades that play well at the office, at brunch, at the gym, and more; its nylon exterior is both dirt-resistant and water-repellent. (According to the brand, the fabric has a water-repellent coating.)

The best part? It was only $20 — a no-brainer, even if it had ended up being a bust. I chose the beige shade, grabbed a matching wool beanie (I’m a sucker for an impulse hat purchase), and called it a day.

Since the morning I bought it on a whim, I’ve taken this bag nearly everywhere — or, to nearly all casual occasions — with me. Why? Not only can it actually withstand a downpour (I’ve carried it in the rain and its contents stayed utterly dry), but its capacity is perfect for my everyday needs. T bag is a bit of an optical illusion — it has a slim, structured profile but is much larger than it looks. I can fit my phone, a portable charger, a few makeup staples (mascara or lipstick), an Epi-Pen (peanut allergy here!), my Bose earbuds, and my wallet and still have room for more — all without it looking overstuffed or bulky. Bonus points for the two inner pockets, which are perfect for my keys or any jewelry, as well as for its slightly wrinkled finish, which doesn’t show any dirt or wear. 

It’s the best $20 I’ve spent in a long time. I’ve had it for about three months and I use it almost every day; the price per wear is negligible at this point, and it will only decrease as I inevitably tend to use it pretty much daily. I’m all for a splurge, but when a basic is this good and this affordable? I say just do it.