Uniqlo is making waves once again with the return of its highly sought-after bag, which gained attention last year for its striking resemblance to a luxury design priced at approximately £620. Priced at a mere £24.90, this bag quickly sold out upon its initial release, showcasing the brand’s ability to deliver stylish and affordable options that resonate with consumers.
The Japanese retailer has established itself as a leader in providing stylish basics, and its bags have become particularly popular. One notable item is the Uniqlo crossbody shoulder bag, which retails for £15 and has garnered a dedicated following due to its practical design and generous interior space. The buzz surrounding the bag intensified when the unisex rectangular shoulder bag was launched, capturing the interest of shoppers. Now, it is back in stock, boasting a new colour option.
Popularity Beyond Price Tags
The renewed interest in the bag can be traced back to its initial marketing push. A streetwear enthusiast noted that they first encountered the Uniqlo bag through a sponsored Instagram advertisement prior to its launch. The design reminded them of a bag from Porter, a well-known Japanese brand under Yoshida & Co., famous for its military-inspired bags. The appeal of Porter’s offerings, priced between £200 and £620, highlights the allure of the Uniqlo alternative, which is significantly more accessible.
While Porter bags are available through retailers like END and Ssense, they are often sold out, leaving consumers to scour resale sites such as eBay and Vinted. The Uniqlo version, while also popular, is currently in stock across all three colour options: khaki, black, and the newly introduced beige.
The khaki shade closely resembles the Porter style, while the classic black offers versatility. The beige option has been well-received, fitting seamlessly into a minimalist aesthetic. One reviewer on the Uniqlo website expressed excitement about the bag’s return, stating, “I saw this bag when it first came out online and was desperate to get a hold of it, but just couldn’t as it was always sold out. It’s the perfect work bag and fits my 13-inch laptop with ease. Looks well made, I love it!”
Functionality Meets Style
For its size, the Uniqlo bag is impressively spacious, featuring a zip opening and an adjustable cross-body strap. This design choice not only enhances usability but also adds an element of style. One user noted their preference for cross-body bags over totes for ease of movement while cycling or walking.
While the Uniqlo bag has some differences from its designer counterpart—such as less expensive hardware and a slightly darker khaki shade—it stands out as a functional and stylish choice for various occasions. “It can fit a 13-inch MacBook, has good compartments and would fit all my daily essentials,” the streetwear enthusiast remarked.
This bag is used daily for work, accommodating a MacBook, charger, wallet, book, lunch, and more. The main compartment features handy dividers for tech items, while internal pockets provide additional storage for smaller items like keys, phones, and headphones. Even with a water bottle in tow, there remains ample space in the bag.
Despite its many advantages, one potential downside emerged: “Perhaps the only downside is that I wouldn’t be able to fit in anything from the supermarket on my way home,” the user added, pointing to the balance between style and practicality.
As Uniqlo continues to meet consumer demands with fashionable yet functional products, the return of this bag underscores the company’s commitment to delivering quality at an affordable price. Shoppers eager for a stylish and practical accessory are likely to find this bag a worthy addition to their collection.
