Boston - July 25, 2007

Never Felt Better

Etcetera Media Bags

We all need a little structure in our lives.

Vacation is grand — as long as that week in the mountains doesn’t bore you by Wednesday. Empire-waist shirts? Blessedly comfortable until people begin to wonder when you’re due.

The same goes for bags — just ask Kelly Smith. After years as an architect, she started taking orders from her coworkers for sleek, simple laptop bags made of imported German industrial felt. The fabric comes in bright red, summery green, and muted neutrals. And at 3 mm thick, it’s padded enough to protect your electronics and stiff enough to hold its shape.

Smith has since branched out with a flirty clutch (just big enough for essentials: digital camera, keys, cash, lipgloss), a square tote, and iPod cases. She created her newest bag, the Stockholm, for her honeymoon to the city.

And that’s inspiration you can build on.

Available at Urban Living Studio, 58 Clarendon Street, South End (617-247-8150). To see styles, go to etceteramedia.com.