It’s July and we’re looking out of the window at - you guessed it - the rain. Luckily for us, we came to work with an adjustable, waterproof cross body bag made by Rotterdam based brand Susan Bijl, and a large recycled plastic zip top tote bag so our essential items are all nice and dry. We also made sure to pack sunglasses, an umbrella, wellies, snow jacket and a sundress just in case (JK, kidding - though maybe not).
Take your cues from us this Summer, with these six items designed for the UK weather, and never be caught out when the weather suddenly changes.
1. The Waterproof Backpack by Susan Bijl
The New Backpack from Susan Bijl has a compact design and is ideal for work, holidays and any other day-to-day activities. The minimally designed backpack has an inner sleeve to protect a laptop, various additional inside pockets and tight pockets for holding a phone or a folded shopping bag on the side.
The waterproof backpack is made from recycled ripstop nylon and has adjustable straps, handles on top and an easily accessible large front pocket that closes with a subtle magnet. Available in a range of stylish, yet neutral colours, this backpack will be all you need this Summer and beyond.
2. The New Bum Bag by Susan Bijl
Crossbody, over your shoulder, on your bike or attached to the pram, the New Bum Bag is an all-time unisex favourite for your daily essentials. This small bag has a box-like shape, making it very spacious, despite its size.
There are so many features to love about the bum bag - it is waterproof, made from recycled fabric, has an adjustable and removable strap, inside pocket, and comes with detachable velcro straps to secure the bag onto objects such as bikes or prams.
About Susan Bijl
The Dutch know how to dress for the rain with style and function, and Rotterdam based Susan Bijl creates accessories exactly for that reason. Susan Bijl produced her first prototype in 2000, recreating the humble plastic bag into a more functional product and reducing the waste that is involved with their use. Known for their iconic flash stripe changing colours with the seasons, Susan Bijl stays focused on creating products that the team really want to use themselves on a daily basis.
3. The Mezcalita Recycled Plastic Tote Bag by Herd London
The Mezcalita Recycled Plastic Tote Bag is big enough to carry everything you need, and brings a hint of holiday to the everyday, so even if you’re having a staycation this Summer, you can still feel the holiday vibes.
The large bag is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, is super strong, wipe clean and has two handle lengths for whether you want to carry it in your hand or over your shoulder. It has a zip closure and internal zip pocket to keep your valuables dry. Ideal for beach trips, park days and day trips - take this bag everywhere you go.
About Herd Bags London
Whitley Bay native, now London dweller, Nancy, launched Herd in 2019 to prove that great design can be both a source of joy and a solution to the waste age in which we live. Their mission is to make life easier for herders - those who carry everyone’s hopes and dreams (and their clobber).
4. The Recycled Insulated Lunch Bag by Black + Blum
The Insulated Lunch Bag is ideal for carrying your lunch with you, whether you plan to eat it al fresco or not. It is made from recycled PET, and is big enough to carry all your food and drink on-the-go items. The sealed construction will keep the contents cool for up to 2 hours; it is also water repellent and easy to wipe clean.
The roll top construction makes it easy to carry in your hand, strap it to another bag, or onto bicycle handlebars. Add a lunch box, water bottle, fruit, and snacks and get out and about this Summer.
About Black + Blum
Black+Blum is a UK-based eco-design company, specialising in high-quality and durable food containers, drinkware and accessories. Each product is designed in London, where every detail is carefully considered for repeated lifelong use, and every material sourced to the highest standard for durability.
5. The Cotton Smiley Face Cap by Things Between
This cotton happy face cap is a year round best friend, whether days are sunny, windy or rainy, it will offer something for that weather. The cap has a unisex, adjustable fit and embroidered smiley face on the front. Perfect for wearing to the beach, the gym or to add some effortless cool to your everyday outfit.
About Things Between
Designed with everyday ease in mind, LA based Things Between offer a harmonious line of elevated comfort and casual-cool garments. Their items are made to wear during the little moments in life, where you find joy and hope in the Things Between.
6. The Roma Recycled Plastic Polarised Sunglasses
The unisex Roma Sunglasses by CHPO are a year round staple - always carry them with you, no matter the weather. Named after the eternal city, Rome, these sunglasses have a thin frame, black lenses and metal details on the arms. They offer full UVA and UVB protection and are polarised, so they’re perfect if you’re getting out on the bike or water this Summer.
About CHPO Brand
CHPO is a watch and eyewear brand founded in Sweden in 2013, inspired by skateboarding, music and art. They offer great looks, great quality and great social values at prices anyone can afford, and the majority of their products are made from recycled materials.
Pack these items away in your Summer luggage or use them in your daily activities and have the best July and August.