The Celine Luggage Tote, the Gucci Dionysus, the Balenciaga City Tote… the list of “it-bags” throughout the ages goes on and on. While it all started with Hermes’ Jane-Birkin-namesake “Birkin Bag,” a dozen new bags now dominate street style and blogs every season. Last summer, the Cult Gaia Ark was one such bag… and of course, I hopped on that train and purchased it along with everyone else.
I need to be honest and admit that I had huge reservations before ordering the Ark. I wondered about the size, if it was something just for girls on Instagram and not for daily life, and, most importantly, was the bag a fad? Now, almost a year since the bag found its way into my wardrobe, I can safely say that NO, the Cult Gaia Ark is not a fad. In fact, it has elicited dozens of copycats, with some being simply “inspired” like this one from Asos and others just being blatant rip-offs… *cough cough* PrettyLittleThing… But, back to the original…
I have the small size, which is perfect because I tend to carry very little around with me. One thing to note, though, is that this bag can only be carried in your hands. You might be able to tuck it under your armpit, but for the most part it’s for your hands only, so bear that in mind if you need a practical, hands-free bag. I got mine in the classic bamboo, but there are a dozen other fun colors and materials (personally, I like the pink and white acrylic). Plus, I don’t think this bag is just for summer. Styled the right way, this bag can take you right through fall, which was important for me because I want year-round wearability. I mean, if you’re going to spend good money on something, you better get lots of chances to wear it, right? Luckily, this bag has provided me many such opportunities and I suggest you also believe the hype and get this bag (or a dupe) ASAP. You won’t regret it!
Photos by @stephanie_rita
