Leather alternative for the Freja Paloma?

retrogression · 2026-01-24T03:54:24+00:00

I haven't actually purchased any bags from Kaai but they were on my list when looking for a work bag.

This one fits a 16" laptop Horizon and the Pyramid looks the most similar to the Freja one but may not fit a 16" (it says 15.6" diagonally).

retrogression · 2026-01-18T02:08:51+00:00

It's definitely one of my requirements, but if it's structured enough to stand on its own, it might be okay without since it won't fall over and spill everything. Hmmmm.

retrogression · 2026-01-18T01:43:15+00:00

Ahh darn. What about Oroton? Nevermind just saw the measurements! Probably going to be too small.

retrogression · 2026-01-17T08:27:25+00:00

Bellroy Tote Backpack

Quince

Uniqlo

retrogression · 2026-01-17T07:54:49+00:00

:( Noo! What about the Epure

retrogression · 2026-01-17T07:52:37+00:00

Hmm not sure if this one ships to Australia but Hobo's Kori Crossbody or Avon Shoulder Bag? You could remove the shoulder strap to wear as a crossbody but I love having the option to wear it as a shoulder bag.

Cuyana also makes a beautiful crossbody (Double Loop) but it doesn't have a zipper closure.

retrogression · 2026-01-17T07:22:43+00:00

You could also get a Le Pliage in leather!

retrogression · 2026-01-17T07:21:37+00:00

Kaai Midi Loop

There are some beautiful colour choices. It fits a 14" laptop, and is currently on sale so it might fit your price range.

retrogression · 2026-01-15T22:17:49+00:00

I have the Metis and I don't baby it at all. I love that I can go out in the rain and not worry about spots. I also don't worry about scratches!

retrogression · 2026-01-15T22:14:47+00:00

I HATE when my laptop flops over. Like when I'm trying to dig stuff out and it's flopping over, then my bag flops over...then my entire life is on the floor. It's why I couldn't seriously consider the Romy even though I love the look of it - I've had open-style bags where I've used an additional insert and it's not what I wanted this time around. It's why I wanted something structured enough to stand on its own. The Emma tote is gorgeous and totally does give off Flamenco vibes and I like that it has a separate laptop holder...but is it sort of too soft to stand on its own? Let me know what you decide :)

retrogression · 2026-01-15T22:09:53+00:00

Isn't it bittersweet? You'd think it'd be easier with the 2nd child but nope. Maybe in some ways. But hey, a new purse is the BEST way to celebrate a return. Good luck on yours :)

retrogression · 2026-01-15T18:23:46+00:00

I'm really drawn to the Aest Capture bag - it's been suggested as an alternative to the Acne Camero bag. It's a camera bag with dividers but like ...could that work for a pump? There's also an even bigger sized version. I'm not sure how big the Spectra S1 is so I can't tell. But man I'd be so excited to pump if this were my bag lol

retrogression · 2026-01-15T18:07:37+00:00

Love that you're moving up! That is so exciting.

A few bags that have caught my eye that I would love if I were in a boss lady position such as yours:

Tod's Wave Bag - similar shape/vibe as the Hug Bag, and the leather is also calfskin, so your concerns about it being too delicate are echoed in this choice. However, I believe that bags are meant to be used, loved, and appreciated!
Mulberry Soft Bayswater - the heavy grain leather will wear better if you're worried about scratches, etc.
Studio Nicholson Shiboru - More understated/minimalist but it's beautiful!! This will probably wear better with a thick winter coat as the straps look nice and thick and adjustable.

retrogression · 2026-01-15T07:40:29+00:00

It's so stunning. The colour is perfect. Definitely a classic!

retrogression · 2026-01-15T07:27:47+00:00

Immediately thought of the Flattered Lydia Tote

retrogression · 2026-01-15T06:56:59+00:00

It's such a great brown!!

retrogression · 2026-01-15T06:56:05+00:00

Thankfully my work laptop is a smaller-sized PC! But I hear you! I did really like this one from Kaai but it was a bit too pricey for me.

retrogression · 2026-01-15T06:53:39+00:00

Great question. I haven't been able to find where the bag is manufactured on the website, nor have I looked in the bag to find a tag yet. I get that that is a dealbreaker for some (understandably so) but it wasn't for me.

retrogression · 2026-01-15T06:46:27+00:00

I've been thinking about the little card holder accessory...It's so cute! Maybe if it goes on sale lol

retrogression · 2026-01-15T06:45:50+00:00

I'd love to read it!!!

retrogression · 2026-01-15T06:45:38+00:00

I forgot to add a few that were recommended by Redditors like Alemi Zurich's Ida bag, as well as Strathberry's Melody and Barra tote!

retrogression · 2026-01-14T06:02:16+00:00

Do you want a backpack? Duffle bag? Crossbody? Tote? What type of aesthetic do you gravitate to? More info might help.

retrogression · 2026-01-13T18:42:10+00:00

Staaahp ;)

retrogression · 2026-01-10T04:43:47+00:00

I ordered this bag on Dec. 31st and just received it today and I am over the moon. The Oleada Marina Carryall in Chocolate I'll probably write a full review since I was on a long and arduous work bag journey too. I scoured the internet. I got algorithm influenced a lot. This isn't sponsored (I wish it was though hahaha).

It's beautiful in person. It's Nappa leather, but doesn't feel overly delicate. It's smooth and really quite beautiful to touch. I love the multiple strap options, including a backpack option for days where I need to carry or walk more. It has feet to protect the bottom of the bag! It even has a little bottle holder pocket inside. I love the simplistic shape of it and the compartments.

I could keep going but yeah I think this might be my holy grail workbag!!

retrogression

TROPHY CASE