Arguably the buzziest accessory of last year, you couldn’t walk down the street without seeing the £14.99 Uniqlo crossbody.

With 30.5 million views and counting on TikTok, the shoulder bag is famous for fitting in all your essentials. Practical thanks to its hands-free design and discreet enough to work with any outfit, the bargain bag has gone down in fashion history (fashion index Lyst even named it the hottest product in the world, beating brands like Prada and Miu Miu).

Now, the Japanese label has launched its latest viral hit: the puffy bag. Unlike the off-duty crossbody, the new iteration has space for your laptop, book, make-up bag and more. Part of Clare Waight Keller’s collection for Uniqlo, the bag is infused with the British designer’s timeless yet contemporary ethos. Crafted from a soft faux leather material, the shoulder bag has a smooth finish, premium feel and interior pocket.

Already racking up more than four million views on TikTok, the sleek bag comes in three colourways (black, cream and khaki) to suit your everyday wardrobe. The best part? It will set you back just £24.99.

How I tested the Uniqlo bag

The khaki puffy bag with our laptop inside (Daisy Lester)

Naturally, I got my hands on Uniqlo’s new viral bag to see how it fared against the original cult buy. Testing just how much I could pack into the bag, as well as its quality, day-to-day versatility and how easily it slots into my existing wardrobe, here are my thoughts.

Uniqlo puffy bag

Colourways: Black, khaki, cream

Why we love it

Affordable

Spacious

Versatile colour options

Take note

Black colourway looks a little cheap

According to the fashion world, micro bags are done. Now, it’s all about roomy and XXL silhouettes that are actually practical (for once). Enter Uniqlo’s new puffy bag.

The spacious style has more than enough room for all your essentials. I managed to pack in my 15in laptop, water bottle, make-up bag, hefty book and chargers for a day at the office (the crossbody could never!). There’s also an interior pocket for keeping cards and miscellaneous items safe.

Crafted from a faux leather material, the bag has a sleek smooth finish and padded texture that gives you extra peace of mind when carrying valuables. While the black admittedly looks a little cheaper than the other two finishes, the minimalist shade will slot easily into your existing wardrobe and is a good choice for those playing it safe.

As for the cream, it’s ideal for the spring months, but just try not to scruff it up too much as I predict it’ll get dirty fast. But my favourite has to be the khaki. The deep green tone looks far more premium than its price tag suggests, yet remains understated enough to go with just about everything in your wardrobe.

Sitting comfortably on your shoulder thanks to the wide, soft strap, the zip keeps your items secure. Costing just £24.99, it’s a steal compared to this season’s other trending XL bags (I’m looking at you Cos) – plus, it comes in a choice of three colourways for every taste.

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The verdict: Uniqlo puffy bag

In case you hadn’t guessed, I’m sold. Pleasingly affordable at just less than £25, Uniqlo’s puffy bag is spacious enough for all your essentials, including your laptop, book and more. Coming in three neutral colourways, each finish will easily slot into your existing wardrobe. Comfortable to carry and far more practical day-to-day than the smaller crossbody bag, it’s going viral for good reason.

Looking for more bag inspiration? We also love the Cos crossbody accessory