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A sleek handbag has always had the power and potential to elevate any outfit—throw it on over a plain white T-shirt or lived-in pair of jeans and expect success each and every time. And these days, thanks to a new class of contemporary bag brands, this elevation has never been more achievable. From DeMellier and Anine Bing to Neous and Savette, a healthy mix of well-established and emerging labels are finding cult status amongst an audience that is style conscious, minimally minded, and, most importantly, sustainability-focused.
What does each of these contemporary bag brands have in common? All are designed with intention—and the intention being to last forever in your wardrobe, not just seasons. Each brand is committed to crafting sensible and stylish pieces meant for daily life and everyday wear, blending in beautifully with your other wardrobe essentials, say a cozy cashmere knit or a crisp button-up. Lately, a pared-down but never boring handbag from the likes of Wandler or Nothing Written has become somewhat of a status symbol—a non-trend trend, if you will. Other anonymous It bags can be found courtesy of Little Liffner, Hereu, and Aesther Ekme. Then—and because it’s fashion we’re obsessed with, after all—there are those irresistible, trend-forward styles from By Far and Marge Sherwood, which have single-handedly put the moon bag back on the map.
With price points mostly under $1,000, many of these contemporary bag brands have been brought on by luxury retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Net-a-Porter, MatchesFashion, and more, all of which share the common goal to encourage the modern woman to develop her own unique personal style. We’re highlighting 20 bag brands that fall into this new class of contemporary–makers of designs that will certainly become the centerpiece of your closet.
DeMellier
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Founded by Mireia Llusia-Lindh, DeMellier London is committed to doing things differently. Each bag is crafted ethically and sustainably in Italy or Spain and sourced with the highest quality materials. The result? Effortlessly elegant handbags that whisper ‘chic’ wherever you take them.
Anine Bing
Look to Los Angeles-based brand Anine Bing for the latest in casual coolness. Bing’s designs are thoughtfully sourced—made to last forever in your wardrobe and not just seasons. For the modern woman looking to err on the edgier side of fashion, you’ve arrived at the right place.
Neous
UK label Neous is known for its minimalist approach to all designs, whether ready-to-wear or accessories. Handcrafted in Italy, each handbag comes in unique silhouettes inspired by modern art. Its ‘Phoenix’ handbag in a burnt burgundy is especially covetable.
Little Liffner
With a ‘less is more’ mantra, Little Liffner’s minimalist designs reflect the brand’s Scandinavian roots. Its bags, however, are perfectly playful, featuring delightful details like sculptural shapes and macaroni gold hardware. To tote a Little Liffner handbag is to make a subtle yet striking statement.
Savette
Founded by designer Amy Zurek, Savette honors traditional leather craftsmanship done in a more modern manner. Each handbag is made with longevity in mind—the intention being to pass it down from generation to generation. With such sleek silhouettes, challenge accepted.
Porto
Porto’s line of fine leather pouches is the definition of quiet luxury. ‘The Pouch’ is roomy enough to fit your essentials, making it the perfect work bag, while the Mini Pouch is a chic choice for nights out.
Wandler
Elza Wandler founded her eponymous label to encourage women to find their unique personal styles. While the classics can be found, like sleek shoulder bags in black and chestnut, other options, like its ‘Carly’ splattered leather bag, are defined as the perfect city companion.
Hereu
With roots in the Spanish Mediterranean, each Hereu handbag simultaneously incorporates artisanal traditions with contemporary designs. With details such as braiding and cool canvas, a Hereu tote is the ultimate piece of resort wear no matter the season.
Boyy
New York-based brand Boyy was founded in 2006 by designers Jesse Dorsey and Wannasiri Kongman with the intention being to create fresh and forward-thinking designs. The label’s signature oversized buckle is just one of many unique details not to be missed.
Nothing Written
Designed in Seoul, Nothing Written is committed to crafting sensible and stylish pieces meant for daily life and everyday wear. Each minimalist bag beautifully blends in with your other wardrobe essentials, say a cozy cashmere knit or a live-in pair of denim.
Aesther Ekme
Aesther Ekme’s sculptural aesthetic can be felt throughout each and every one of its designs. Each bag is perfectly polished—and made with the highest quality materials, which makes all the difference when choosing your handbag of choice.
ATP Atelier
Two close friends, Maj-La and Jonas, founded ATP Atelier out of an obsession with the finest leather, precious details, and expert craftsmanship. While some designs lean more structural for a more unique customer, others are perfectly classic and timeless.
Marge Sherwood
Marge Sherwood’s designs are known about town, seen toted by fashion darlings and street stylers alike. Fun fact: the brand’s name is born from the heroine in the film The Talented Mr. Ripley and each design is made to reflect her sought-after sophisticated style.
By Far
By Far is an accessories brand that is constantly reinventing the classics. Founded by a set of sisters in 2016, the label has become a staple in any cool-girls closet. Of its biggest supporters, you might ask? None other than Hailey Bieber.
Dragon Diffusion
There’s no secret to the allure of basket bags in the summer season and no one is doing it better than Dragon Diffusion. Each of its handwoven bags is crafted with the intention—to make a subtle statement and to do so sustainably. Coming in an array of neutral colorways, a Dragon Diffusion tote is a certified closet staple.
Edas
New York-based brand Edas’ designs are rooted in craftsmanship and innovation. With playful shapes and pops of colors, an Edas handbag packs the perfect punch.
Staud
There’s no denying the appeal of Sarah Staudinger’s designs, whether it’s her culty ready-to-wear collections or her minimalist handbag selection. When it comes to the brand’s bags, each one reflects (you could even say starts) the latest trends. Our favorites include its modern moon bags, sleek shoulder bags, and funky bean bags.
Brandon Blackwood
Brandon Blackwood’s handbag collection is a surefire way to make a statement these days. Coming in an array of textures, like denim and croc, no design is the same–and for the better. Wear yours with a muted fashion foundation to make sure that the bag shines the brightest.
Cuyana
Female-founded brand Cuyana is committed to offering fewer but better collections that embody timelessness, sustainability, and expert craftsmanship. For the more minimally minded, a Cuyana tote is the perfect accessory to invest in.
Elleme
Paris-based brand, Elleme, defines the French-girl aesthetic we all know and love. Its simple yet chic designs are made with the modern woman in mind. Wear yours with a simple knit and a pair of jeans for maximum effect.
