Despite being a shopping editor who spends an inordinate amount of time scouring new arrivals and watching trends with the solemnity of a full-time job (because, well, it is), there are still brands—iconic ones, even—that manage to elude my wardrobe entirely.
Case in point: STRAND. You might know it as Strandbags, the longstanding Australian luggage stalwart you’ve probably panic-shopped in before a long-haul flight. It’s been around since 1927—heritage with a capital H—and while I always knew it existed, I never really looked at it.
But here’s what I didn’t know: STRAND has its own in-house line of bags and accessories that feel unexpectedly cool. Evity, their private label leather collection, is one of those stealthy brands that’s been quietly circulating on the shoulders of people with great taste.
I clocked it on Instagram. I paused on it on TikTok. But I hadn’t actually tried one of their bags—until recently.
Enter the Evity Clara Grab Bag. Unboxing it, I got it immediately. Not just the quality (which is genuinely solid), or the subtly directional shape—it was the wearability. It looked right with everything. And more importantly: it felt like something I’d already owned forever, in the best way.
The shape hits that elusive midpoint between structured and slouchy. The leather is pebbled (read: forgiving) and has that nice lived-in potential that’ll only improve over time. The gold hardware is minimal but intentional, and the design? Let’s just say there’s a certain Puzzle-adjacent silhouette happening—without the designer price tag.
Now, I’m someone who defaults to black every time—but I was genuinely tempted by the other colourways: a rich chocolate brown, and an olive green that reads more “elevated neutral” than “adventurous statement that I might later regret.” Clearly STRAND understands that good colours shouldn’t feel like a risk.
Functionally, it passed the test of city life. The Clara is compact but roomy enough for daily essentials (note: no, it won’t fit your 13” MacBook, but your Kindle/phone/keys/personal pharmacy? Yes).
I especially love that you can open the magnetic clasp one-handed—blessings to anyone who’s ever tried to wrestle a zipper open on a crowded train with a coffee in hand. For extra peace of mind, there’s also a full length zip.
The real proving ground, though, was a recent long weekend in Melbourne. I travel carry-on only (7kg max) so every piece has to earn its place. I needed a bag that could handle daytime schlepping and still work with my nice “evening” outfits.
This one delivered. Crossbody for exploring, shoulder strap for dinner, and yes—you can tuck or detach the straps entirely and carry it under your arm in a purposely nonchalant way if you’re a clutch purist like me.
Surprisingly, I haven’t swapped it out much since. And that never happens. But this bag has quietly become a staple—unfussy, practical and understated. Plus, at under-$200, it hits that rare sweet spot between feeling expensive but actually isn’t.
If you’re in the market for a bag that’ll go the distance (without looking like it’s trying too hard), Evity—specifically the Clara Grab Bag—deserves a look. I’ve already bookmarked a few other styles for you to check out below.
The Best Bags To Shop At STRAND, According To maire claire:
Evity Clara Leather Grab Bag
$179 at STRAND
We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: this compact leather bag (16 x 26 x 11 cm) packs way more than its size suggests.
The adjustable, removable crossbody strap and grab handle mean you can switch up your look without missing a beat. Inside, zip and organiser pockets keep your essentials organised, while the magnetic snap and zip closures keep everything safe.
Evity Josie Leather Tote Bag
$179 at STRAND
For those who need a reliable tote, the Evity Josie Bag is the perfect partner for everything from desk to dinner plans.
Spacious yet sleek (26 x 34 x 10 cm), it features twin compartments, a back zip pocket, and internal organisers to keep your life in order. Two flat shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry, while a secure zip closure keeps your essentials safe.
Evity Mira Leather Shoulder Bag
$199 at STRAND
The Evity Mira Leather Shoulder Bag brings effortless style with its on-trend hand-woven leather design.
It’s compact size (17 x 28 x 11 cm), features an adjustable, removable crossbody strap and a grab handle for whatever your day demands. Inside, a zip pocket keeps your essentials secure, while the magnetic snap closure offers easy access with peace of mind.
Evity Luna Leather Flap Crossbody Bag
$189 at STRAND
Designed to keep up with your busy life, the Evity Luna Leather Flap Bag is crafted from supple leather and measures a perfect 17 x 28 x 9 cm—compact yet surprisingly roomy.
With an adjustable, removable crossbody strap and a handy back zip pocket, this bag could take you almost anywhere. Inside, zip and organiser pockets keep your essentials perfectly in place.
Evity Clara Leather Charm Tote Bag
$199 at STRAND
Crafted in your choice of supple suede or smooth, structured leather, this oversized tote balances form and function.
Designed to accommodate everything from your laptop to a spare pair of shoes, it’s the kind of piece that moves seamlessly from weekday to weekend. A detachable charm offers a subtle nod to seasonal styling—without disrupting the timeless silhouette.
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