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"My old work/travel bag died a few months back, and I had a hell of a time replacing it. Then I found the tiny LA brand Not Rational. The line was launched by Fabiana Trosman about 15 years ago and first made a splash with its cool diaper bags. I ordered my tote via Fabiana's Etsy store, which offers all sorts of customization options: colors, stripes, and monogramming if that's your thing (prices range from $375 to $550).
The tote is amazing for a few reasons. The leather is super-soft and thick, the bag is sturdy and lined but also very light. It fits a ton; on a recent trip, I crammed it with a Macbook, a charger, a leather jacket, and oversize wool scarf, my lunch, a book (All the Light We Cannot See, great read) and various other odds and ends. It also has two pockets for your phone or sunglasses on one side, and a zip pocket on the other.
I also tossed my trusty L:A Bruket hand lotion into the bag; I always bring this with me when I fly. The scent, #102, is a bergamot and patchouli blend. It's incredibly moisturizing — flying always dries me out — and I love the little metal tube, sized small enough to be TSA approved. I bought mine at Coming Soon, a boutique on the Lower East Side, but you can also find the Swedish brand online."
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Not Rational tote, from $375; L:A Bruket hand creme, $26
About Leslie
Get to know our editor-in-chief.
Hometown: I'm from the suburbs of Philly but have lived in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Hard to pick a favorite.
Best vacation of all time: Probably the trip I took to Berlin a few years ago. The Liquidrom is amazing, as is the Boros Collection.
On my playlist right now: I've been enjoying Pandora's "'90s Alternative Radio" channel, nostalgia overload.
Most recent Instagram follow: Pumpkin the Raccoon, "the story of a rescued Bahamian raccoon called Pumpkin and her friends, Royal Bahamian Potcake rescues Toffee and Oreo."