fashion

'I found the ultimate summer work bag that doubles as a chic beach tote.'

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There's a ritual we don't talk about enough. It's one that has been weighing on my mental load.

Every Friday night after the work week is done, I begrudgingly scoop my wallet, keys and lip balm out of my work handbag and transfer it into a bag of a slightly smaller stature and softer make.

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When I air these grievances, people say to me, "Lucy, get a bowl to keep your items in, then just pop them in whatever bag you're using!"

And to that I say — in no world do I want even more clutter than I already have. And also, who wants a random bowl in their room?!

Luckily, I've found the solution, and it doesn't include accidentally leaving my headphones in another bag.

I've found her. The perfect bag that is equal parts office as it is beach, markets and other wholesome weekend activities.

Her name, you ask? The Mimmi Terra Woven Traveller Tote Amarena, $159.

I've ditched my worn-down work bag and have been wearing it in the office for the past few weeks. Here's what I can report.

Split image. Writer taking selfies in the office lift holding Mimmi Terra tote bag.My bag and I at the office. Image: Supplied.

Not only is she beautiful (and brings me lots of compliments), but she is the perfect size to hold a laptop. Or my yoga mat. Or both?!

It's super large (without looking comical on your body) and fits absolutely everything. I've even used it as a super chic looking overnight bag when I'm staying at the boyfie's house, packing in PJs, makeup and work gear for the next day.

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Plus, the red colour is surprisingly versatile with every outfit. But if that's not your style and you're after something a little simpler, it also comes in a bajillion gorgeous summery colours, like pink, black and multicolour, as well as a smaller size if you're after something a little less 'statement'.

Writer in workout attire holding drinkbottle and handbag with yoga mat inside.My bag and I going to pilates. Image: Supplied.

Not only is the woven style super on trend at the moment, but the material is water-resistant, so you can have peace of mind when popping it down on the wet sand.

So, I'm happy to announce I've finally retired from the dreaded bag-swap routine. All that needs to be done is to ditch the lunchbox for my hat and sunscreen and voilà! A beach bag was born.

If you too would like what I've now deemed a 'chameleon bag', allow me to introduce you to my lineup of the best summery bags that are suitable for any time of the week.

Mimmi Terra Woven Traveller Tote Amarena, $159.

Model lower half holding red Mimmi Terra tote wearing white skirt and silver flats.Image: The Iconic.

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Poppy Lissiman Lio Tote, $210.

Model in yellow bikini holding blue and white checkered tote bag with Poppy Lissiman logo.Image: Poppy Lissiman.

Kmart Weave Tote Bag, $29.

Black woven neoprene bag.Image: Kmart.

Prene The Holiday Large Woven Tote, now $129.

Cream woven neoprene bag with big checkers.Image: The Iconic.

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The Somewhere Co. Keepsake Adventure Bag, $129.

Dark red canvas bag with bright red straps, red and white stripes in the middle with red tag. Sitting on wooden bench with rope.Image: The Iconic.

Big W &me Women's Beach Bag, $20.

Natural coloured straw bag with tan straps.Image: Big W.

& Other Stories Leather-Detailed Straw Tote, now $118.30.

Model holding natural straw tote with brown leather lining and long brown leather straps.Image: The Iconic.

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Mimco Blondie Boxy Tote Bag in Iceberg, $199.95.

Blue and white spotted boxy tote bag with light blue MIMCO label across the bottom.Image: Myer.

Bon Maxie Everyday Tote Bag, now $129.

Tan coloured canvas bag with two light pink stripes and straps.Image: Bon Maxie.

For more helpful style advice and shopping recommendations, subscribe to the weekly Nothing to Wear Substack, listen to the Nothing to Wear podcast or watch Nothing to Wear on YouTube.

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work handbag

Feature image: Supplied.

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