Ever since moving on to a permanent home office, my wardrobe has shifted big time to practical pieces that I can grab and go with.

I still love the occasional aspirational piece (a girl is still a girl), but it’s been nice to settle down with comfy, versatile pieces. And no, I’m not the type to dress up at home–I could literally stay in my pyjamas in front of my desk all day.

The latest addition to my summer wardrobe is the Spläshini from Gaston Luga, which hails from Stockholm, Sweden. The brand bridges the gap between form and function with minimalist bags, with a lifetime warranty included. Most of their backpacks lean towards an androgynous, utilitarian silhouette that might drown out smaller frames, but the Spläshini hits a sweet spot that pairs well with athleisure-inspired looks (more on that later). If crossbody bags are more your jam, check out the smaller Spläsh with a 1.9L capacity and six colourways.

The Spläshini reminds me of a more compact and casual version of the Tory Burch Small Perry Tote, one of my most-used bags ever. It sports the same triple-compartment layout with a magnetic flap closure over the top and the option to transform from a top handle bag into a crossbody. But because it’s crafted in an entirely vegan waterproof material, it’s much lighter, and I don’t have to baby it. Somehow, the top-handle silhouette combined with its velvety matte texture makes a delightful juxtaposition for modern outfits that call for a mix of high-low fashion (which is, really, my favourite).

I went with the aptly named “cloud cream”, an ecru shade that pairs well with my summer wardrobe but feels less mainstream than the classic black (which my Tory Burch is already in). With boxy interiors, the Spläshini fits my Kindle, makeup bag, portable charger, AirPods, sunnies, cardholder and keys. I could also swap the makeup bag for a slim Muji water bottle or a petite Japanese foldable umbrella. Surprisingly practical despite its 2.6L size, huh?

The shorter top handle comes in the same material as the bag and slips through the buckle on one end and hooks onto the other.. The details are where Gaston Luga’s Scandinavian craftsmanship really shines through: the strap has not one but three loops, which means it stays in place all day without a rogue end poking out, and the blind logo embossing on the front of the bag and hooks which don’t scream “Look at me, I’m branded”.

The crossbody strap is a lightweight canvas with metal swivel clips to attach to subtle hooks on the inside of the bag. I realise my favourite handbags (the Celine Frame, Loewe Puzzle, Chloe Tess) all come with wide straps because they’re much more comfortable and balance out the proportions nicely when set to the shortest length on the shoulder.

Both straps are adjustable and detachable, and it takes just half a minute to go from hand-held to crossbody. Or you could go strap-free and tuck the soft, boxy shape under your arm. While it’s not meant for dressier outfits, it goes quickly from day to night and makes for a perfect travelling companion if you don’t require carrying around a lot.

The Spläshini has definitely been growing on me–I’ve yet to put it away after two weeks, and I keep reaching for it when running errands or rocking an athleisure co-ord look.

If you decide to treat yourself (or a loved one) to something at Gaston Luga, my discount code “CARMENHO15” will give you 15% off any purchase.

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