There was a time when your toiletry bag was just that—a glorified Ziploc to stuff your toothpaste, conditioner and mini La Mer into before zipping through TSA. But then came social media and the rise of trends. And then came that woman—the viral fashion commentator turned accidental archivist—who said, with all the conviction of someone who’s been personally victimized by airport luggage, “Whose idea was it to wear Louis Vuitton toiletry bags as actual bags?” It was ours, girl. And we look good doing it.
Vanity bags have officially entered their streetwear era. What was once relegated to suitcase interiors is now being tucked under arms, slung across shoulders and flaunted like a new Jacquemus. The girls and boys are not just outside—they’re outside with their toothpaste pouches turned luxury clutches. Call it quiet luxury’s rebellious little cousin or the ultimate soft-launch of Y2K practicality, but either way, we’ve witnessed the transformation of the humble toiletry bag into a high-fashion statement piece.
Blame the culture shift on social media, where repurposing is practically a religion. That once-random bag you got from a PR drop? It’s now a conversation starter. Gen Z didn’t just blur the lines between daywear and clubwear—they bleached them out completely. Today’s vanity bag might carry setting powder, a spare lash glue, and a credit card… but tomorrow, it might hit the club with a matching kitten heel and vintage Mugler.
Let’s not pretend this is just a Gen Z thing. From Euphoria-core fashion to street style moments snapped outside fashion week, we’ve all seen the girls and guys turn a utilitarian pouch into a flex. Even heritage houses are leaning into the moment. Louis Vuitton’s Nice BB vanity case is no longer just a travel essential—it’s a status symbol. Meanwhile, Macy’s stocks chic, under $50 options that could pass for something you’d spot on Rihanna’s nightstand. The point is: there’s a bag for every price range, every vibe and every night out.
While the original TikTok might’ve come from a place of light judgment, the cultural response was anything but defensive. It was defiant. A toiletry bag? To the club? Absolutely! Because who says your carry-on can’t carry the culture?
Whether you’re looking to drop a couple hundred on a leather vanity from Louis Vuitton or want something sleek, clear, and under $40 that slides into your weekend rotation, EBONY has rounded up a few of our favorite picks. Think classic black quilted numbers, monogrammed moments that’ll make your luggage jealous, and even translucent options for that peak-early-aughts aesthetic. The only rule is to pack it with pride.
After all, in 2025, your toiletries deserve a night out too.
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