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When people find out that I'm a Glamour shopping editor, they always want to know my favorite products (and best gifts to give). My answer is consistent: The Uniqlo bag because it (crucially) fits my beloved Kindle—and everything else I ever need.
To understand my love for the Uniqlo mini round shoulder bag is to understand my love for my e-reader. One doesn't exist without the other. In 2020, I bought an Amazon Kindle on Prime Day after realizing I'd only finished something like three books the year before. Now, I read over 100 per year because of how portable it is—and what a joy it is to get lost in good stories, no matter where I am. I take the tablet with me everywhere—moments spent waiting for a train, a friend at a bar, or in the post-office line, are no longer wasted staring into space. The only (and I mean only) frustrating aspect of this Kindle lifestyle is that, unless I want to lug around a big tote or backpack, most bags aren't the right size or shape to hold the tablet. Fanny packs and belt bags are wonderful, but usually too small. I wind up leaving the Kindle home when it doesn't fit in my purse—and longing for it hours later.
A couple of years ago, I began a quest to find a carrier that was lightweight enough for running around town, spacious enough for both my prized possession and essentials, and stylish. Friends, TikTok, and New York street style brought the Uniqlo bag to my attention. It's a crossbody bag designed in a crescent shape that snugly lies under my arm and across my chest, and it's made of a water-repellent nylon that stretches to fit so much stuff. Though it's compact, its storage capacity mimics that of Mary Poppins' magical carpet bag. It can accommodate my wallet, earbuds, phone, sunglasses, emergency kit of Band-Aids and Advil, handheld fan, multiple tubes of lip gloss, small water bottle (or mini umbrella), and my Kindle. All at once! Two inside pockets add organization, but otherwise, it's a minimalist dream. It comes in a bunch of trendy colors (like brown, butter yellow, and pastel blue), and each season, there are new style drops. I wear it for every occasion and all levels of dress—with leggings and sneakers while traveling, a blazer and knee-high boots to the office, or a pretty dress for an evening out.
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Original photo courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs
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Original photo courtesy of Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs
I've saved the best news for last: The Uniqlo mini bag is only $20. Seriously! I own three because they're so affordable: beige for everyday, a straw crochet style for summer, and black corduroy for fall (which is currently on sale for $6). There's a new larger-size quilted version that has puffy-coat vibes and is currently sitting in my cart. There's no end to my adoration of the Uniqlo bag, especially because it keeps my Kindle—and my reading goals—well within reach.
Psst: If we're friends and you need a winning gift idea for me, please peep the above.
