This $88 Bamboo Bag Has a Cult Following on Social Media

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Surprise! I first saw the Cult Gaia Ark bag ($88) on Instagram, like everything else I lust over and subsequently purchase. I don’t remember who posted it, or from what account, but I know the bag was the only thing I was paying attention to in the photo — mostly because I had to double-check to make sure it was an actual bag used to carry things. Turns out it is, indeed, an actual bag used to carry things! And it’s probably my favorite bag I’ve ever owned.

The bags themselves are all made of bamboo, held together by super flexible plastic, allowing the top to open and close as you press the sides together. When I’m not using it — a.k.a. when I need to carry anything more than my ultimate essentials — it sits up on its own on top of my bookshelf. I know what you’re thinking: $88 for a bag that doubles as chic home decor? A steal.

I sprung for the small version, which is $10 less than the large ($98), because I wanted it to be my go-to summer-weekend-stroll, out-for-drinks bag and didn’t want it to take up too much space. But if you’re worried about how much it can actually carry, don’t be. It’s accompanied me on many a night out since I bought it, and I can attest to its ability to comfortably fit my wallet, phone, the repurposed Aesop drawstring bag I use to carry my keys and makeup, and a small bottle of Hennessy. Like I said, my ultimate essentials.

Also, okay, sure: It definitely gives off that “did you know I work in fashion?” vibe, but minus the cult Instagram following and “It girl” qualifications, it’s just a really fun, unique bag for anyone — whether you work in fashion or not.

Plus, I did mention that it’s under $100, right? Because it is, so like the product page says, “Get it now or regret it later.”