Women ditching handbags for clothing storage
New research indicates a significant trend among young UK women to forgo handbags, opting instead to use their clothing to carry essentials.
Trust 58Craft 80Hype 30How this was reported ▾
Sources named (GK Barry, brand manager) and figures linked to a commissioned study give moderate corroboration.
How well corroborated and evidenced the reporting is. Higher is better.
Clear relevance, quotes, specific data, next steps, but reads like a promotional press release.
Context, balance and separation of fact from comment. Higher is better.
Mildly promotional language but not overt sensationalism.
How far presentation runs ahead of substance. Lower is better.
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From the archive. This story was written up on 29 July 2026 from reporting first published on 20 July 2026, which is the date shown above. We took up the back catalogue of the local titles we read when this site launched, so the events are older than the page.
A recent study indicates a growing number of young women are opting to leave their handbags at home when going out. Research involving 2,002 UK women found that 28% of those aged between 18 and 29 now choose to forgo a bag entirely. The findings, as reported by the Harrow Times, also suggest that 81% of women believe Gen Z represents the most hands-free generation to date.
Creative Storage Solutions
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With women's clothing often lacking sufficient pockets, many have developed creative methods for carrying their necessities. Almost three-quarters of women surveyed, specifically 73%, admitted to using their clothing to transport their mobile phones during a night out. This trend extends to other items, with 64% tucking bank cards into their attire, 63% doing the same with photo identification, and 61% carrying keys in this manner. Furthermore, 51% reported finding space for lip gloss or lipstick.
“Women’s clothes never have proper pockets, bags ruin your outfit, and sometimes you just want to be hands-free with your friends and your drink.”
GK Barry, presenter and podcaster
Presenter and podcaster GK Barry commented on the common experience of going out without a bag, only to find oneself holding multiple items. She highlighted the lack of practical pockets in women's clothing and the desire for a hands-free experience. This sentiment is echoed in the survey, where 55% of women believe their lives would be simpler if tops included proper compartments. The research also found that 94% of women would wear a stylish fashion item that offered practical storage.
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Innovative Fashion Item
In response to these findings, drinks brand Echo Falls has collaborated with GK Barry to introduce a limited-edition item called the Echo Falls Carry-All. This specially designed top features integrated compartments for a phone, bank card, photo ID, keys, lip gloss, and gum. It also includes two cup holders, intended for a 125ml serving of Echo Falls Blue Raspberry and a separate drink, such as water. The design draws inspiration from the electric-blue colour of the Echo Falls Blue Raspberry beverage.
The Echo Falls Carry-All was unveiled through a promotional film featuring GK Barry and QVC presenter Sarah Searle, who demonstrated its features in a light-hearted, shopping-channel style. Taran Dhillon, brand manager for Echo Falls, stated that the concept was inspired by listening to customer experiences of going out without handbags. UK residents aged 18 and over can enter a competition to win one of the Carry-All tops or a merchandise bundle by calling a provided phone number. The competition is set to close at 11:59pm on 29 July 2026, with no purchase necessary.
Questions this report answers
+Why are young women choosing to go out without handbags?
A new study found that 28% of UK women aged 18-29 are leaving handbags at home because they prefer to carry essentials in their clothing. The survey showed that many women use pockets in tops and dresses to hold items like phones and bank cards instead.
+What clothing features are women looking for to replace handbags?
The research revealed that 55% of women want tops with proper compartments to make life simpler. In response, a new top called the Echo Falls Carry-All has been created with built-in storage for phones, cards, keys, and even drink holders.
+How can I win one of the new Echo Falls Carry-All tops?
UK residents aged 18 and over can enter a competition to win a Carry-All top or a merchandise bundle by calling a provided phone number before 11:59pm on 29 July 2026. There is no purchase necessary to enter the giveaway.
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