by Matt von Holtz.
British fashion history is a rich tapestry woven from centuries of cultural evolution, royal influence, and innovative design. From the Victorian era, where fashion was dictated by the rigid social norms of the time, to the flamboyant and rebellious spirit of the Swinging Sixties, British fashion has always reflected the changing tides of society. The early 20th century saw London emerge as a fashion hub with designers like Charles Worth pioneering haute couture, while the 1920s introduced a more liberated style with flapper dresses and shorter hemlines. The post-war period brought about a new wave of creativity with the likes of Norman Hartnell dressing the royals, and later, the youth culture of the 1950s and 60s, led by figures like Mary Quant who popularised the mini skirt, influencing fashion worldwide.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries have been marked by British designers who have left an indelible mark on global fashion. Vivienne Westwood’s punk rock ethos, Alexander McQueen‘s dramatic flair, and Stella McCartney’s commitment to sustainability illustrate how British fashion has set trends. The establishment of London Fashion Week in 1984 further solidified London’s status as a fashion capital, showcasing emerging talents and established names alike. Today, British fashion continues to be a blend of tradition and modernity, with designers like Burberry redefining classic British elements like the trench coat, while new voices like JW Anderson and Molly Goddard push boundaries with their progressive designs. This legacy of innovation, combined with a respect for craftsmanship, ensures that British fashion remains at the forefront of the global stage, continually evolving yet always echoing its storied past. Let’s take a look at the best of British handbag brands!
Mulberry
Mulberry Bayswater Black Cherry Heavy Grain
£1,295
The Mulberry Bayswater in Black Cherry Heavy Grain is a true icon of British fashion. Priced at £1,295, this shoulder bag showcases Mulberry’s craft heritage through its quality leather. The signature Postman’s Lock is a distinctive feature, while the adjustable belted sides inside allow you to customise the space according to your needs. It features silver hardware, two top handles for easy carrying, and one main compartment along with one internal zip pocket and two slip pockets for organisation. A hanging leather fob with a hidden padlock offers an extra layer of security, and the microfibre lining ensures durability. The bag is finished with four metal feet at the base, ensuring it remains pristine and upright.
Mulberry
Bayswater Black Cherry Heavy Grain
£1,295
Mulberry Small Amberley Satchel
£795
Inspired by the charm of British countryside pursuits, the Amberley bag takes its cues from traditional equestrian styling. This compact version is crafted to be worn either on the shoulder or hands-free across the body. The geometrical Rider’s Lock closure offers a contemporary twist on the iconic Postman’s Lock, establishing a bold and modern signature for this collection. Featuring a foil embossed Mulberry signature, the bag has a front flap secured by the Rider’s Lock closure, a buckle-adjustable shoulder strap, and refined belt detail on the side. It includes an internal slip pocket, is lined with suede, and finished with Mulberry’s soft gold hardware.
Mulberry
Small Amberley Satchel
£795
Aspinal of London
Aspinal of London The London Tote
£521
The London Tote from Aspinal of London, priced at £521 is handcrafted from the finest full-grain leather. Its semi-structured shape is instantly recognisable, featuring two stitched ‘A’ panels on the sides and adorned with our signature gold Bee & ‘A’ charms with subtle branding on the front. Designed for longevity, this essential leather tote can be carried by the soft top handles or slung over one shoulder. Inside, it offers a main compartment divided by a central zipped pocket, along with an additional zipped pocket and two slip pockets, all set against a luxurious grosgrain lining.
Aspinal of London
The London Tote
£521
Aspinal of London Midi Mayfair 2
£521
Handcrafted from responsibly sourced full-grain leather, this compact bag brings a bold aesthetic with its sleek shapes and three-dimensional gussets, forming an angular statement silhouette that proudly carries the signature Mayfair 2 hallmarks. An exaggerated, chunky chain introduces strong lines, complemented by a streamlined shield lock. Inside, the luxurious grosgrain lined interior offers a spacious compartment along with a practical zipped pocket for organisation. You can carry the Midi Mayfair 2 with the top handle for a classic look or attach the bold chain strap for an over-the-shoulder style. The leather is sourced from a bronze-rated LWG certified tannery, ensuring quality and sustainability.
Aspinal of London
Midi Mayfair 2
£521
Radley
Radley Sloane Street Ziptop Crossbody
£143
This boxy crossbody design features three compartments, shiny push-lock hardware, and distinctive inverted edge seams, echoing the signature style found across the Sloane Street collection. Crafted from grained leather, it includes a crossbody strap with dog clip ends for ease of wear, and a slip pocket on the back for quick access. The interior is thoughtfully designed with a triple compartment setup, including a central zipped section, and additional interior zip and slip pockets for organisation. Metal feet protect the base, while a detachable Scottie dog key fob adds a playful touch.
Radley
Sloane Street Ziptop Crossbody
£143
Radley Dukes Place Large Ziptop Workbag
£167
The Dukes Place Ziptop Workbag has become a favourite due to its minimalist design and durable grained leather. This spacious work bag is ideal for those on the go, offering three compartments inside, which makes locating items like keys a breeze. It’s crafted from grained leather, with twin shoulder straps for easy carrying. The interior features a triple compartment design, including a central zipped section, all lined with fabric, and includes additional zip and slip pockets for organisation. The bag is adorned with a foil print logo and comes with a detachable leather and metal Scottie charm, adding a playful touch to this practical handbag.
Radley
Dukes Place Large Ziptop Workbag
£167
DeMellier
DeMellier The Tokyo Clutch Off-White
£255
This clutch features a graceful envelope silhouette, highlighted by the collection’s signature magnetic gold arrow lock and a distinctive bombée detail on the flap, adding a unique character to the piece. Versatile in styling, it can be carried by hand for a classic touch or slung over the shoulder with its intricate gold chain. The interior, lined with sustainable cotton, is spacious enough for essentials like your phone, card holder, keys, and other small items.
DeMellier
The Tokyo Clutch Off-White
£255
DeMellier The Paris Stone Grey Lizard-Effect
£475
This top handle bag showcases meticulous craftsmanship and a newly introduced trunk-inspired gold-plated lock. Each piece is handmade, featuring a bombée trim that’s as eye-catching as the Parisian skyline. Its versatility is enhanced with a detachable and adjustable leather strap, allowing for multiple styling options. Inside, the soft cotton lining is divided into two compartments with an additional zipped pocket for organisation. This bag draws inspiration from the City of Light.
DeMellier
The Paris Stone Grey Lizard-Effect
£475
Strathberry
Strathberry Mini Tote Bottle Green
£425
Strathberry responds to popular demand by introducing a new, indispensable size between the Nano and Midi. This bag is perfect for daily use across all seasons. It features an understated silhouette, with the signature Strathberry bar closure elegantly folding over the top handle to secure its contents. Crafted entirely by hand in Spain from 100% smooth calf leather, it boasts a soft microfiber lining, gold hardware, and includes a detachable chain with a leather insert. Additional features include the signature bar, leather top handle, an interior pocket, and protective feet.
Strathberry
Mini Tote Bottle Green
£425
Strathberry Lana Hobo in Black
£395
The Lana Hobo in black reimagines the iconic Lana Bucket Bag with a softer, more relaxed profile. Handcrafted in Spain, this hobo-style bag introduces a non-adjustable shoulder strap highlighted by the distinctive Music Bar hardware, with an equestrian-inspired aesthetic through thick contrast stitching. It closes with a magnetic popper and features an internal zip pocket for essentials. With minimal reinforcement, this bag is designed to soften and adapt over time, creating a unique, personalized shape that comfortably holds your daily necessities. Made from 100% grain calf leather with gold hardware and leather feet.
Strathberry
Lana Hobo in Black
£395
Burberry
Burberry Small Rocking Horse Tote
£2,050
The Small Rocking Horse Tote showcases the brand’s signature ‘b’ closure and is adorned with the iconic Equestrian Knight Design embossed on the back. Features include rolled leather top handles, an exterior slip pocket secured by a magnetic closure, and an interior zip pocket. The bag’s details are refined with hand-painted edges and brushed metal hardware. It comes with a dust bag for protection. Crafted in Italy from crocodile-effect leather, lined with soft suede.
Burberry
Small Rocking Horse Tote
£2,050
Burberry Mini TB Bucket Bag
£1,050
The Burberry Mini TB Bucket Bag is a charming piece crafted in Italy from the iconic Burberry Check. This softly structured bag features a cotton lining and is accented with the Thomas Burberry Monogram. It secures with a drawcord closure, and the hand-painted edges along with brushed metal hardware make it pop.
Burberry
Mini TB Bucket Bag
£1,050
Alexander McQueen
Alexander McQueen Mini T-bar Bag in Light Pink
£2,000
The Mini T-bar Bag in light pink is crafted from grainy lamb leather and its structured body boasts pleated sides, adding a unique texture to its design. The bag is highlighted by a statement circular T-Bar handle in silver tone metal, engraved with the McQueen logo. This mini bag can be carried by hand or worn crossbody with its detachable silver tone metal chain strap. Features include McQueen metal lettering, magnet fastening, and silver tone hardware for a cohesive look. Inside, there’s one central compartment and an internal card slot with a metal D-ring, all lined in light pink nappa leather. This piece is made in Italy.
Alexander McQueen
Mini T-bar Bag in Light Pink
£2,000
Alexander McQueen The Biker Mini Jewelled Satchel in Black
£1,750
This bold satchel from McQueen is crafted from black calfskin leather, with biker-inspired leather strap that can be adjusted to various lengths thanks to silver-finished press studs. The bag features an antique silver-finished handle adorned with crystal-encrusted rings. Inside, there’s one main compartment and a card slot, all lined in leather. The brass hardware with its antique silver finish complements the edgy aesthetic. Made in Italy.
Alexander McQueen
The Biker Mini Jewelled Satchel in Black
£1,750
Vivienne Westwood
Vivienne Westwood Medium Hazel Handbag Black
£490
The Vivienne Westwood Medium Hazel Handbag makes a striking return with a shiny leather finish and a croc-embossed design. This season’s iteration includes the brand’s iconic broken pinstripe lining, a distinctive reinterpretation of the classic pinstripe first introduced in the Autumn-Winter 2015 Gold Label collection. It secures with a magnetic stud fastening and offers practicality with three internal card slots and an internal mirror. The protective base feet ensure the bag’s longevity.
Vivienne Westwood
Medium Hazel Handbag Black
£490
Vivienne Westwood Mini Betty Handbag Purple
£490
Rebellious spirit? Look no further than the Mini Betty Handbag by Vivienne Westwood – with its bondage-inspired details, nods to the iconic ‘Erotic Zones’ collection from Spring-Summer 1995. This miniaturized version retains the classic orb branding on the front flap. It features a magnetic stud fastening for security, an internal compartment for essentials, and a top-handle for ease of carry. The bag includes extendable gussets for added capacity, an unlined interior for a raw, authentic feel, and comes with a detachable chain strap. Crafted in Italy, this Mini Betty reflects a bold reinterpretation of tradition.
Vivienne Westwood
Mini Betty Handbag Purple
£490
Anya Hindmarch
Anya Hindmarch Mortimer Crossbody Bag
£850
This Mortimer crossbody bag radiates charm with its oblong shape and turn lock closure. Crafted from zebra-print calf hair, it’s accentuated by an adjustable, ink-green strap made from shiny calf leather. Inside, there’s ample room for essentials like a wallet, phone, small notebook, and makeup. The interior features the signature Anya Hindmarch logo and a gold bow, all in leather, enhancing the bag’s character. This crossbody combines unique materials with thoughtful design.
Anya Hindmarch
Mortimer Crossbody Bag
£850
Anya Hindmarch Neeson Square Tote in Chalk
£1,250
This is a masterpiece of artisanal work, taking up to 12 hours to hand-weave and stitch each piece from chalk capra leather. This spacious bag is designed to accommodate daily necessities like a laptop, books, makeup, gym gear, and more. Its shoulder straps can be adjusted to your preferred length for comfort. The interior includes a large leather slip pocket for safely storing cards and headphones, alongside the signature Anya Hindmarch bow and logo embossing. Externally, it features adjustable handles, a D ring for attaching accessories, and the iconic woven bow.
Anya Hindmarch
Neeson Square Tote in Chalk
£1,250
Jimmy Choo
Jimmy Choo Diamond Hobo S Black Shoulder Bag
£950
Jimmy Choo bolsters the iconic Diamond family with its butter-soft leather and distinctive stitched panels that create a unique Diamond-shaped form. This hobo bag features a self-lined leather interior for a seamless look and feel. The bag is secured with a magnet closure and adorned with Diamond hardware. Crafted in Italy.
Jimmy Choo
Diamond Hobo S Black Shoulder Bag
£950
Jimmy Choo Micro Bon Bon Ruby Red Tinsel
£675
The Micro Bon Bon in Ruby Red Tinsel really is a captivating piece. This miniature version of the iconic Bon Bon bag features a festive tinsel material, offering a bucket profile crowned with a metal bracelet handle. Its versatility is enhanced by a chain drawstring closure and an additional chain strap, allowing you to carry it or wear it crossbody. Inside, there’s a handy pocket for small essentials. Made in Italy.
Jimmy Choo
Micro Bon Bon Ruby Red Tinsel
£675
Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney Falabella Tiny Tote Bag Black
£775
The Falabella Tiny tote is a downsized version of the brand’s iconic design. This bag boasts a slouchy silhouette accentuated by the signature diamond-cut chain, crafted from grained vegan Shaggy Deer fabric for an eco-conscious touch. It features a logo-patterned lining made from recycled materials. The midnight black colourway is versatile and practical, comfortably accommodating your phone, wallet, and other essentials. The Falabella tote is adorned with an engraved ruthenium logo medallion charm, and the lining is made from recycled polyester.
Stella McCartney
Falabella Tiny Tote Bag Black
£775
Stella McCartney Frayme Whipstitch Small Shoulder Bag
£895
The Frayme Whipstitch Small is a reimagining of classic Stella McCartney aesthetics, pushing for a sustainable fashion future. This bag features a distinctive rounded, crescent silhouette, crafted from UPPEAL™, a pioneering vegan material made from apple waste, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather. The panels are laced together with whipstitching, adding texture and character to the design. It comes with a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap for versatile wear. The interior includes one main compartment for secure storage, plus a slip pocket for those emergency items. This piece, made with waxed GOTS-certified organic cotton lacing, showcases Stella McCartney’s commitment to ethical fashion.
Stella McCartney
Frayme Whipstitch Small Shoulder Bag
£895
Paul Smith
Paul Smith Dusky Swirl Leather Medium Round Hobo Bag
£610
The Paul Smith Dusky Swirl Leather Medium Round Hobo Bag, priced at £610, is crafted from calf leather, showcasing the brand’s signature faded ‘Swirl’ print across its surface. This medium-sized bag features a practical main zip compartment (to keep your belongings secure) with a tonal cotton lining. It includes an internal slip pocket for small items and comes with a comfortable leather shoulder strap. The combination of 100% calf leather with cow leather trim, alongside the 100% cotton lining, makes this hobo bag a great addition to any wardrobe.
Paul Smith
Dusky Swirl Leather Medium Round Hobo Bag
£610
Paul Smith Signature Stripe Coated Canvas Tote Bag
£350
The Paul Smith Signature Stripe Coated Canvas Tote Bag, priced at £350, introduces a fresh silhouette for the season, crafted from a durable cotton-blend coated canvas. It’s highlighted by Paul Smith’s iconic ‘Signature Stripe’ pattern, with tan leather trims accentuating the base and opening. This tote comes equipped with two tan leather handles for easy carrying and features an internal leather zip pocket for secure storage. A gold clip faster is a nice touch, while the bag is fully lined in black twill fabric for a polished interior. The leather-protected base provide durability.
Paul Smith
Signature Stripe Coated Canvas Tote Bag
£350
JW Anderson
JW Anderson Loafer Bag
£1,150
The J.W. Anderson Loafer Bag redefines traditional bag design with its unique loafer-inspired front panel accented by white topstitching. The back panel features discreet logo embossing for subtle branding. Access to your contents is via a top zip, complete with a branded puller for ease of use. Inside, there’s a leather pocket, also embossed with the logo in a subtle manner. This Loafer top handle bag comes with a detachable leather strap and is crafted in Italy.
JW Anderson
Loafer Bag
£1,150
JW Anderson Small JWA Corner Bag
£750
The Small JWA Corner Bag is an lovely leather crossbody that features the brand’s distinctive tonal chain link design. It includes a detachable leather crossbody strap, while the outer panel sports an embossed logo, subtly declaring its heritage. The bag secures with a zip closure that has a branded puller and inside, there’s a practical leather pocket for your essentials. All hardware is in silver tone, enhancing the bag’s sleek profile. This piece is crafted in Spain.
JW Anderson
Small JWA Corner Bag
£750
Also check out “10 Essential Mini Handbags You Need”
*Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
