Seven Editor-Approved Indie Handbag Brands to Have on Your Radar
by Avalon Afriyie.
My preference for shopping small extends to handbags and when it comes to fashion, I prefer nothing more than discovering independent brands. Luxury fashion houses are the makers of highly coveted shapes, heritage and revere that you can’t deny – from Chanel’s Classic Jumbo, and Hermès Birkin, to modern cult favourites from The Row and Loewe, however independent brands are direct competitors with designers, with many coming up trumps in comparison. Controversial as it may be, 2023’s “quiet luxury” rhetoric favoured craftsmanship over label, which paved the way for many independent premium brands. The slew of independent brands introduced over the last decade has been wetting the whistle of eco-conscious shoppers amongst us and it’s only been growing stronger, so continue reading for seven indie handbag brands that are worth familiarising yourself with.
Naru
Novel Tote Bag
Naru first came to my attention in 2023 due to the radical transparency of the manufacturing process, foremost. Marketed as a luxury-conscious handbag brand, it has a capsule of three versatile styles (a tote, crescent bag and satchel shape), in three neutral colourways. I’ve examined its three styles up close and each one features smooth leather, considered compartments and polished hardware. Following the prominence of sustainability, Naru offers bag rentals — whether you’re a potential customer of its bags or someone looking for fresh inspiration.
DeMellier
London The Paris
DeMellier London’s arsenal comprises a capsule of supple suede bags, to boxy structured silhouettes suited to fashion-conscious women on the go. Its shapes share a likeness with Hermes’ structured totes with a mini top handle, whilst offering competitive price points. The Paris is one of its latest releases and the held-in structure with a puckered cotton canvas makes a great option for the summer months if you’re looking for a change from the typical wicker basket shape.
Manu Atelier
Le Cambon 35
Beste and Merve Manastır co-founded Manu Atelier in 2014 and it’s since cemented its place as a Satorialist favourite worldwide. The Manastır sisters’ father owns one of the oldest leather goods manufacturers in Istanbul, so fashioning quality leather goods is in the blueprint of the family. You’ll find buttery suede handbags, directional cylindrical shapes and even heeled sandals amongst its roster.
Muuñ
Les Sophie Lace
Wicker basket bags have been celebrated by European women for decades as they pose a solution to sweltering forecasts and practicality. There’s been a significant increase in the regard of rattan styles since Loewe’s entry-level leather-trimmed woven raffia tote (now a declared cult item) in 2019 and the many designer styles that followed in its wake. Although JW Anderson’s iteration comes highly recommended, I prefer independent brands when shopping for wicker bags and Muuñ’s credentials are admirable. Muuñ was founded in 2004 after founder, Audrey’s inspiring trip to West Africa. Comprising six fabrications including — elephant grass, leather, wool, cotton, linen and jute, there’s a clear emphasis on eco-conscious, natural fibres, which is highly commendable.
Wandler
Penelope Shoulder Bag
Wandler is perhaps my most recommended handbag brand and in particular, its Penelope Shoulder Bag. Its bags are understated, robust (in structure) and available in a host of unique and earth-toned colourways spanning mushroom taupe (above) to deepened natural greens to mimic nature. It’s certainly made with a modern consumer in mind.
Mashu
Irene Black Saffiano
Founded by Greek designer Ionna Topouzoglou in 2017, Mashu is an accessories brand with sustainability at the forefront, whilst not compromising on playful designs with modelled adornments (case in point with the Saffiano’s chain-link handle). All of its handbags are PETA-approved and vegan. Rest assured that your bag purchase is for life, as Mashu offer a lifetime repair guarantee.
Little Liffner
Large Leather Basket
Combining advanced Scandinavian design with traditional craftsmanship and weaving techniques, Little Liffner is an independent brand worth celebrating for progressive fashion, whilst paying homage to heritage and culture. Its pieces highlight sculptural shaping, quality fabrications and timeless iterations. You’ll find a selection of suede, smooth leather and woven handbags from which to take your pick.
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