My choice of handbags has progressively tended towards the plain and minimal in recent years – smooth leathers, simple shapes, and minimal, if any, branding – and my obsession with the simple horizontal Celine Cabas tote in black nappa leather is probably the pinnacle of that aesthetic evolution.

Every element of the Céline Cabas is purposefully designed and scaled back to its most primitive form. It is unlined, intentionally revealing the natural velvety underside of the buttery lambskin. The construction is visibly simple – ‘Cabas’ simply means ‘shopping bag’ in French. There are no buckles, clips or zips (save for the small inside pocket). With such a simple design concept, the most identifiable feature of the Celine Cabas inevitably becomes the tiny gold embossing between the handle straps which simply spell out: ‘Céline Paris’ and ‘Made in Italy’. Only Céline could achieve, with so little pomp and ceremony, such a universally recognisable trademark which instantly causes women everywhere to salivate uncontrollably.

In terms of the simple shopper tote, the choices are plentiful indeed. The Ann Taylor Gallery Tote, the Michael Kors Jet Set Traveler, and the Madewell Transport tote are just a fraction of the price of the Céline, and the Mansur Gavriel tote with its trademark customisable interior is also altogether affordable. So why, then, when there are so many other more affordable alternatives, would one choose to spend four figures on a Céline Cabas?

To me, the Céline Cabas’ simple elegance and ultra-luxe feel is not easily matched. You might balk at the price for such a simple bag, but quality and craftsmanship speak for themselves. It’s the marshmallowy softness (and amazing smell) of the leather chosen for the Cabas; It’s the placement and height of the double straps which not only provide versatility and comfort, but also allows the bag to fall naturally into its signature inverted trapeze shape when held; It’s the cleanly finished seams which are in no need of concealment.

As for the apparent downfall of the Celine Cabas – that it has no structure to speak of, I think this is something to be appreciated for what it is. The slouchy chic quality of the Celine Cabas is an integral part of its Parisian charm. Leave structure to the other Celine bags, I say, like the Box or the Trapeze. Even though the Cabas has had many incarnations over the years, and some of them have featured thicker leather to allow the bag to hold its own shape, I still much prefer the original; the way that it flops in every which way when set down – this is a bag that’s got nothing to prove to no one.

And it goes completely without saying that this is probably the most practical and functional bag that was ever made. It fits everything all at once (although for fear of the leather stretching, I would keep it within reason) and doesn’t require any fumbling with flaps or buckles to stow and retrieve. It’s simplicity makes it versatile enough for any occasion or purpose, especially travel.

Where to buy the classic Celine Cabas? Current season Celine only offers the Small Vertical Cabas which does not tickle my fancy. I purchased mine from Japanese pre-owned designer seller, Atlantis Tokyo on eBay. I’ve also seen the Cabas come up occasionally on Vestiaire Collective, though unfortunately very rarely. I hope you find yours too!