A Bag for Every Occasion: My Obsession with Bags and Backpacks

Written By Heather Hebson

Let's talk bags. I have a bit of a collection—okay, maybe more than a bit. It all began when I was a teenager, earning my own cash from babysitting gigs. I'd save up every penny to splurge on a Coach purse. And splurge, I did. Every. Single. Time. By the time high school rolled around, I had amassed about 20 to 30 different Coach bags.

Fast forward to today, and my love affair with bags has only grown. Nowadays, I've got a bag for every scenario you can think of—and trust me, I mean everything. From working at a coffee shop to hiking a 14er, I've got a bag ready to go. Here are some of my top picks for every occasion:

1. Working from a Coffee Shop - Cuyana Small Easy Zipper Tote

This Italian leather carryall is my go-to for remote workdays. It's lightweight, spacious, and comes with a hidden zipper for added security. Plus, it's stylish enough to take from the coffee shop to a casual dinner without missing a beat.

2. Working from the Office - Deuter UP Stockholm

When I'm heading into the office, I need a backpack that can keep up with my busy schedule. The UP Stockholm is my top choice, offering superior comfort and ventilation for those long city commutes. Made from recycled materials and produced with sustainability in mind, it's not just functional—it's eco-friendly too.

3. Going to Red Rocks - Parker Clay Miramar Leather Backpack

For outdoor concerts and adventures at Red Rocks, the Parker Clay Miramar backpack is a game-changer. It's sleek, durable, and perfect for carrying all my essentials without sacrificing style.

4. Quick Jaunts Out in the Streets of Denver - Clare V Grande Fanny

Whether I'm running errands or grabbing brunch with friends, the Clare V Grande Fanny is my trusty sidekick. It's versatile, hands-free, and oh-so chic—everything I need for a day out in the city.

5. Night Out on the Town - Clare V Midi Sac

When it's time to hit the town, the Clare V Midi Sac is my go-to accessory. It's soft yet structured, with enough room for all the essentials—phone, keys, wallet, you name it. Plus, it pairs perfectly with any outfit for a stylish finishing touch.

6. Longer Hikes and 14ers - Deuter Future 25 SL

For longer hikes and conquering 14ers, the Future 25 SL backpack is my must-have gear. Designed specifically for women, it offers a secure fit and maximum airflow for those strenuous mountain climbs.

7. Backpacking 2-3 Days - Deuter Aircontact Ultra 35+5 SL

And when it's time for a backpacking adventure, the Aircontact Ultra 35+5 SL has me covered. It's lightweight, comfortable, and built to withstand the rigors of thru-hiking—everything I need for a few days off the grid.

So there you have it—my obsession with bags and backpacks, laid bare for all to see. From coffee shop workdays to Red Rocks concerts, I've got a bag for every occasion. Because when it comes to bags, you can never have too many, right?

Heather Hebson

Studio Gwendolyn, formerly Gwendolyn PR, is the creative studio of Heather Hebson—a branding and communications specialist rooted in storytelling, aesthetic strategy, and soulful execution. What began as a boutique PR consultancy has grown into a full-service studio helping brands articulate who they are, why they matter, and how they show up beautifully in the world.

From brand voice development and content strategy to web copy, campaigns, and digital presence, Studio Gwendolyn blends emotional intelligence with strategic clarity—inviting founders, creatives, and lifestyle businesses to fall in love with their brand again (or for the first time).

This isn’t just branding. It’s artful alignment.

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