Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag vs Marc Jacobs Scene Small Shoulder Bag

The Uniqlo Round Mini is the practical pick: lightweight nylon, a 4L body that holds a phone, wallet, keys and a small bottle, and a soft shape that packs flat. The Marc Jacobs Scene Small is the step up in materials and finish, with cow leather, a zip closure and oversized gold-tone hardware that reads as a dressier bag. Owners of the Uniqlo praise how much it swallows for its size; leather bags in this class draw more comments on scratching and care. Buy the Uniqlo for everyday carry and travel; buy the Marc Jacobs when the bag is part of the outfit.

• Choose the Uniqlo Round Mini if you want a light, roomy everyday bag you can wipe clean, stuff into a tote and not worry about.
• Choose the Marc Jacobs Scene Small if you want a leather shoulder bag with gold hardware that works for dinners and dressed-up days.