No Sherpa Required

Tania Kohut

Having it all can literally mean, well, having it all. Running shoes, gym clothes, iPod, perfume mini, make up bag, Zip drive, manila folder, account files, Blackberry, nutrition bars, lunch, and at least three lip glosses. Just leaving the house requires strategic planning to assure all daily essentials are at hand. Keeping ourselves in order takes many important items, and the one to carry them all is just as crucial. Regardless of how far you commute, there is absolutely no excuse to commit the wardrobe sin plaguing young fashionables: the backpack.

The tote was all over the runways this season. Models for Marni and Dolce & Gabbana clutched brown leather; Dior showed crimson, cream and black. Past season trends such as metallic, patent, and boho fringe are still holding on tight on runways from New York to Milan. The season’s hottest colours are deep, earthy blues, greens, and purples, creamy off-whites, all shades of brown, and inky black. Hardware is bold, with chain straps and chunky detailing.

L.A.M.B., considering the schedule of designer Gwen Stefani, appears to have perfected the multi-tasker’s carryall. L.A.M.B.’s lightweight designs are sporty and eclectic. The Ombre Patent Manchester Bag ($495), available in Rainforest and Sunrise, and the Mandeville brown tote ($395) are chic enough to make the transition from daytime commute to after work cocktails. Available at Holt Renfrew, www.holtrenfrew.com .

Gap, after 20-some years in business, has perfected the leather tote. From soft and buttery to roughly textured, every colour of the season's palette can be found in bags of varying sizes and shapes. The tough hardware will hold up for years, and the fashionable styles will remain classic enough to last more than one season. Pockets within the bag will aid organization of smaller items. The totes ($198 – 220) can be found at one of the chain's nearly 100 stores across Canada.

Some bags have a separate pocket for an extra pair of shoes. If not, shoe bags are lightweight and use up little, if any, precious purse space. Inexpensive and machine-washable, the thin bag (typically drawstring) will stop any dirt from your soles messing with your gear.