One of the most coveted styles of 2023, the padded bag is the accessory of the moment - so if you want your arm candy as comfy as your feather-down pillows, you’re in luck.
Loved for its cool, low-key Scandi vibe, the original puffer jacket-esque designs were made using textiles like nylon or polyester. Now, you can find elevated styles crafted using leather from luxury fashion houses or practical, wallet-friendly options from high street stores and independent labels alike.
The good news? The cosy accessory now comes in all shapes and sizes, so whichever bag silhouette you’re in the market for, your wish is our command. Tote bags? Check. Mini shoulder bags? Check. Classic crossbody bags? You guessed it - check.
From Loewe’s Puffer Goya which debuted as a part of the Spanish label’s AW22 collection, to Bottega Veneta’s Padded Cassette which has been enjoying It-bag status since 2019, to Rains’ waterproof tote and Cos’ quilted mini shoulder bag, the market is awash with choice.
So, whether you want a bag that will take you from work to the gym, a puffy crossbody for daily wear or even an XL tote for a weekend away, you’re sure to find whatever you’re looking for in our list below.
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XOUXOU Moss Padded Tote with ECONYL nylon
XOUXOU’s puffer tote is a stylish yet practical design that would work as well for a weekend away as a day in the office.
With a water-repellent outer, a laptop pouch and six handy pockets, it’s equal parts function and form - and the puffer outer doubles up nicely as a pillow on those tiring commutes.
Buy now £143.00, XOUXOU
AllSaints Nadaline Leather Quilted Tote Bag
Crafted using a smooth, supple leather, AllSaints’ quilted tote looks much more expensive than its current £188 price point. Featuring both over-the-shoulder and top handles, an internal pocket and a spacious capacity, it’s a great day-to-day bag.
Buy now £188.00, AllSaints
Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette
The bag of the moment, Bottega Veneta’s Padded Cassette is coveted by fashion editors and celebrities alike - and for good reason.
The Italian house’s signature intreccio leather construction delivers an instantly Bottega look, and the gold-tone clasp and triangle buckle only bolster the sense of luxury. Whilst it’s an eye-watering price point, it’s an investment that will stand the test of time.
Buy now £3140.00, Bottega Veneta
Holzweiler Taupe Down Ulriken Tote
A minimal tote, Holzweiler’s design stays true to the brand’s Scandi roots.
Featuring an understated printed logo, zip closure and satin lining, it’s an elevated streetwear staple - and boasts all of the practical essentials, from a laptop compartment to a waterproof outer.
Buy now £110.00, SSENSE
JW Anderson Bumper 15 Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag
First debuted in spring/summer 2022, JW Anderson’s bumper bag has gone from strength to strength ever since - and we love this season’s padded iteration.
From the structured tubular silhouette to the zip closure, the nappa lining to the gold tone hardware, it’s one of the coolest bags on the market.
Buy now £750.00, 24S
Cos Quilted Mini Bag
Channel the 90s with Cos’ mini quilted shoulder bag. A sustainably minded design, it’s made from a recycled polyester, and the orange is the pop of colour every summer wardrobe needs. If you prefer a toned down look, it’s available in black too.
Buy now £39.00, Cos
Jacquemus Bambimou padded leather shoulder bag
Luxury French label Jacquemus is well known for statement leather goods, from the mini Chiquito to the geometric, structural Le Sac Rond. This time, it’s the Bambino that’s been given a pink, padded makeover - and finished with classic gold-tone hardware.
Buy now £870.00, MatchesFashion
Rains Loop Shopper Mini
Cut from the brand’s signature rubberised PU fabric, Rains’ padded mini shopper is fully waterproof - a perfect work bag when the British weather’s involved. Expertly engineered for carrying heavy loads, it’s durable, comfortable and as functional as it gets.
Buy now £105.00, Rains
Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
New York-based label Coach has had a leather-goods comeback in recent years, thanks in part to its hypiest design, the Tabby.
Taking cues from a 1970s style from the brand’s archives, it’s packed with vintage appeal and proudly presents the signature hardware front and centre. Both the shoulder and crossbody straps are detachable so you can switch it up depending on the outfit.
Buy now £550.00, Coach
