although the term quiet luxury has divided opinion, it’s propelled brands with an onus on quality and refinement into the forefront. sartorialists may be all too familiar with the likes of fashion critic tan leather guy and his (signature but wince-inducing) deconstruction of leather goods and he’s likened many mid-priced brands to their counterparts boasting on some occasions five times the price point. of course, many brands have a heritage to compete with but as someone who studies materials and compositions meticulously, I’ve come to realise that pricing isn’t necessarily synonymous with high quality, proving you needn’t spend upwards of a thousand to acquire a handbag to span a lifetime. keep reading for eight handbag brands I’ve come to know and love.
mosaic nano brown, strathberry
husband and wife duo leanne and guy are at the helm of edinburgh-based brand strathberry. favoured by royals and sartorialists alike it’s amassing quite the acclaim. its signature t-bar adornment graces each design, of which there are a plethora to suit a myriad of occasions and styles.
mini tote du jour black grained, manu atelier
pictured on a plethora of tastemakers from julia fox to gigi hadid, it’s safe to say that this turkish label is gaining esteem in the fashion world. with a smorgasbord of sleek style complete with a minimalist aesthetic, it’s a bag brand you can count on for timeless styles.
polène is growing exponentially as a result of its recognition in the likes of emily in paris, subsequently resulting in the expansion of its stores in paris. it’s best known for directional shaping inspired by architecture and natural elements.
tondo large textured-leather shoulder bag, savette
conceived by amy zurek, savette is majorly informed by renaissance art and womanhood. each piece is constructed in Italian leather at a warehouse situated a stone's throw away from florence.
phoenix baguette leather shoulder bag, neous
ludwig mies van der rohe’s “less is more” approach extends to premium leather goods. upon first glance, you’ll pique how neous pieces are concave, with near-on invisible stitching and polished gold elements (namely their iconic egg-shaped hardware).
large leather basket dark brown, little liffner
this scandinavian accessories brand marries contemporary designs with quality craftsmanship, resulting in uniform pieces that withstand trends. zeroing in on the simplistic approach, little liffner offers understated styles and dips into trends with longevity, thus creating pieces you’ll wear in the crock of your arm for seasons if not years to come.
this award-winning producer of british handbags boasts an array of shapes fabrics and finishes, so you’re bound to find something that speaks to your personal style. founder mireia llusia-lindh places grave emphasis on procuring sustainable materials, alongside a means of production that is ethically sound.
alva shoulder bag suede sand, flattered
avalon is a london-born editor and creative writer based in paris. since graduating with an english degree in 2013, she’s written for some of the uk’s most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, including who what wear, refinery29, eliza and stylist.
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