High-quality materials, carefully considered details, artisanal craftsmanship, innovation… In recent years, premium brands have been drawing inspiration from the excellence of the biggest luxury houses to create designs that are as beautiful as they are high-quality.
Adopted by those who dream of owning a high-end piece without spending thousands of dollars, as well as by it-girls on the lookout for the most fashionable designs, these handbags skillfully echo the codes of luxury. Here is a selection of iconic it-bags that showcase the leather goods divisions of major premium and affordable brands.
The M Bag by Maje
With its ultra-recognizable bohemian chic look, the Sac M stands out for its elegance and retro accent. In line with the luxury houses’ quest for sustainability, this Maje model is made from responsible suede leather certified by the Leather Working Group. It has a cotton lining and an adjustable, removable shoulder strap so it can be carried by hand, on the shoulder or across the body. But its uniqueness lies in its fringes on the sides, its square shape and its rectangular covered handle. While the camel version is one of the best known, the brand offers different styles of bags for women. We love the black leather model with silver eyelets, the metallic anthracite gray, and the ecru color trimmed with faux fur.
The Numéro 10 bag by Polène
Made from certified Italian grained calfskin selected from European tanneries and lined with 100% microfiber velvet, the Numéro 10 bag is a symbol of the Polène brand. The label, whose popularity continues to grow, was inspired by the timelessness championed by luxury fashion houses. Its rounded shape and half-moon design echo the equestrian codes of saddlery. The Numéro 10, available in camel, taupe, olive, chalk, and black, is made by leather craftsmen in Spain and Portugal. It comes with two adjustable shoulder straps for varying lengths.
The mini candy bag by Mansur Gavriel
There’s no need for unnecessary frills when designers achieve the holy grail of the perfect cut. Simple and effective, the mini candy bag by Mansur Gavriel has all the makings of a luxury it-bag thanks to its graphic silhouette and circular shoulder strap for carrying on the shoulder or by hand. The traditional discreet triangle shape is reinvented with organic lines. We love its small size and U-shaped zip closure. Made from calfskin, it is crafted in Italy in natural shades ranging from sky blue to sage green and jasmine beige. The perfect bag for a night out!
The Moon bag by Staud
More daring, the Moon bag by Staud features a sculptural half-moon shape and a curved handle, with topstitching that contrasts with the smooth material. It is made from cowhide leather lined with suede. For added comfort, the top of the bag is covered with a magnetic clasp delicately engraved with the brand name. This it-bag is also available in raffia and even wicker for summer.
The Refaeli bag by Duret Paris
While more and more customers are looking for ethical or even vegan materials, Duret Paris continues to work with exotic leathers. This is evident in the Refaeli model in crocodile in a deep burgundy color, “largely sourced from renowned French tanneries,” as the brand mentions, and trimmed with a peony pink goat lining. Designed by Mickael Benarroch and entirely hand-stitched with peony pink linen thread, the interior is custom-made to the customer’s specifications and preferences.
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Featured photo: © Polène
