5 Affordable Emerging Bag Brands You Need to Know
Get these up-and-coming labels on your radar.
Luxury handbags have long been a status symbol in fashion, with many people saving up over time to acquire coveted designer bags to elevate their daily looks. From iconic and insanely high-priced pieces like Hermès’ Birkin to cult-loved silhouettes like Dior’s recently re-introduced Saddle bag and Fendi’s Baguette bag, there’s no denying the power of a high-end bag.
With luxury pieces remaining almost out of reach for the vast majority of us, splashing out on a more bag from a contemporary label is a more affordable reality. Additionally, with so many exciting emerging brands across the world, you could be on to the hottest new trend without even realizing it and you’re less likely to be caught with the same arm candy as everyone else come fashion month. We rounded up some of our favorite up-and-coming handbag bands to keep an eye on next time you want to treat yourself.
Read on for our top picks and in related news, check out our roundup of affordable suits to pair your new bag with.
Medea
SSENSE
Medea’s speciality is sleek and practical tote bags that at first glance, appear like chic but nondescript shopping bags. Peer closer and you’ll see they’re crafted from smooth, matte leather and feature subtle metallic Medea text branding on the top. Launched by sisters Giulia and Camilla Venturini in Milan just a few years ago, the label has racked up some impressive stockists including Dover Street Market and Selfridges. If you’re still a fan of the micro bag trend, be sure to check out its adorable tiny bag charm.
Where to buy: Available at retailers like SSENSE
MANU Atelier
Moda Operandi
Another sister-led brand, MANU Atelier is the brainchild of Turkish siblings Beste and Merve Manastır. As the daughters of one of Istanbul’s oldest handcraftsman and leather goods manufacturers, good, high-quality design is in their blood and it shows through the label’s timelessly stylish accessories. Its boxy Micro Bold and Mini Pristine bags are already street style-staple and with its foray into footwear, you can expect this family-run brand to become a mainstay on the fashion circuit.
Where to buy: Available at retailers like Moda Operandi
Danse Lente
Moda Operandi
Translating from French as “slow dance,” Danse Lente is a London-based accessories brand focusing on handbags and small leather goods. Its versatile Josh bag is a personal favorite, however there’s a silhouette to suit pretty much every taste. The mini Johnny takes on an edgy, hexagonal shape whilst the Margot, Phoebe and Adele feature a more traditional and practical style. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the new Coco bag which is a unique take on the the bucket silhouette – it boasts a sturdy, cage-like structure and smooth leather finish.
Where to buy: Available at retailers like Moda Operandi
Cult Gaia
MYTHERESA
Cult Gaia shot to fashion fame with its signature bamboo-crafted Ark bag a few years ago and has steadily continued to put out stunning, sculptural masterpieces at affordable prices. The original clutch bag is still available in a variety of finishes and the lineup has progressed to include the circle-shaped Luna, the ring-covered Jasmin and the ultimate statement-maker – the Cupola Mini acrylic tote. If you’re a fan, you can get the full Cult Gaia look – the label also has a full line of ready-to-wear and footwear.
Where to buy: Available at retailers like mytheresa.com
Yuzefi
Moda Operandi
Designer Naza Yousefi is the mastermind behind London-based brand Yuzefi. Using her years of experience in ready-to-wear design as well as a passion for interiors and artefacts, Yousefi’s label is luxe without pretence. The standout silhouette for us this season is the Dolores which is a half-moon shaped bag with a simple foldover flap and adjustable shoulder strap. The subtle detailing like the golden stamped text logo and the smooth knot in the top handle elevate the accessory – get ready to see these on the arm of every It Girl this fashion week.
Where to buy: Available at retailers like Moda Operandi
