School-style satchels

Satchel style bags seem to be very popular right now - whenever I have one for sale at any of my market stalls they're snapped up right away. These are usually 1970s or 80s era fashion bags, made for women and mostly made from tan coloured leather. This one by the Cambridge satchel company is great because it's true to a traditional school satchel bag, no fussy styling, but comes in the perfect choice of colours both traditional and bright. At around $150 aud inc postage for the smallest handbag size it's pretty good value for a unique everyday bag.

The best 80s style gym bags

TRKFLD

This Philly-based company make a classic barrel-style gym bag in rainbow-bright colours. I like my accessories plain and simple, so I'm not as into the striped fabric used on most of their other designs but the 'Maile' is a TRKFLD winner.

American Apparel

Having recently opened their first stores in Australia, American Apparel are probably best known for their t-shirts, though they deserve serious kudos for some great accessories at affordable prices. AA's strong anti-sweatshop philosophy is also to be applauded.

Warning: those born post-1980 may have bad acid-wash flashbacks. I'm fine with it in very small doses (above, far right).

Jack Gomme

Order & Progress is hands down my favourite fashion shop in Melbourne, but even if you're not a hipster Melburnian you can now buy their fine goods 'from Brasil & beyond' online. Jack Gomme bags are beautifully made, roomy, and come in black, black, black and silver. They have the best printed lining featuring the smiling cartoon faces of the designers Paul & Sophie.