This blog post shares over 25 of the best luxurious and unique handbags from designer to under-the-radar crafted leather styles to inspire you.
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By now we can all agree that handbags are an essential part of any wardrobe.
They not only serve as a functional item to carry personal belongings but also as a fashion statement.
With the New Year, many of us are taking the time to invest in quality pieces, especially in our leather goods.
While some may aspire to own the status symbol of designer bags like Hermès and Chanel, others are collecting quite luxury pieces that help their style stand out.
Working behind the scenes in fashion, certain handbags have distinguished themselves with premium materials and distinctive details.
Most of which aren’t followed by an outrageous price tag!
Keep reading below to discover the best luxurious and unique handbags that every fashionista should know about.
The Best of Top Tier Quiet Luxury Handbags
Whether you are a handbag enthusiast or not, there is no denying that top-tier luxury handbags are undeniably beautiful and desirable.
These bags are often made with the finest materials and craftsmanship, making them timeless pieces to pass down for generations.
As trends grow, we’re seeing a move away from flashy or noticeable logos and are embracing subtlety and elegance.
These are true ‘if you know, you know’ bags.
Celine Teen Classic Bag
Celine is a brand that has been around for decades but has recently regained its popularity.
The Teen Classic Bag is one of their most iconic pieces, with its structured silhouette and minimalistic design. Made from luxurious calfskin leather, this handbag comes in various sizes and colors to suit any outfit or occasion.
Saint Laurent Manhattan Shoulder Bag
Saint Laurent (commonly known as YSL) is another brand that has always maintained its luxurious appeal.
The Manhattan Shoulder Bag is an example of their quiet luxury craftsmanship.
Reminiscent of the Hermès Birkin, this subtle design is perfect for those who want that ‘Old Money’ aesthetic.
Gucci Jackie Shoulder Bag
While Gucci is known for its flashy logos and designs, they also have an understated line of handbags that scream luxury without being too loud.
The classic Jackie Shoulder Bag has a timeless design with a curved silhouette. It has gained popularity again in recent years.
The Row Sofia Nubuck Shoulder Bag
The Row is a relatively new brand, but their handbags have quickly become sought after by fashion enthusiasts.
The Sofia Nubuck Shoulder Bag has a simple and elegant design with luxurious Nubuck leather.
It’s perfect for those who appreciate understated luxury and want to make a statement without being too flashy.
Boyy Wonton Leather Top Handle Bag
A brand that has garnered much attention in recent years, thanks to their unique and modern designs.
The Wonton Leather Top Handle Bag is a perfect example of their signature aesthetic – combining functionality with fashion-forward design. This handbag features a sleek top handle, spacious interior, and edgy buckle detailing.
Mid-range Luxurious and Unique Handbags
In addition to the high-end luxury brands, mid-range brands offer equally luxurious and unique designs at a more affordable price.
These bags may not have the same name recognition, but fashion enthusiasts are discovering their quality and craftsmanship and are eagerly adding them to their closets.
Mulberry Darley Satchel Bag
Mulberry is a British brand that has been making luxury leather goods since 1971. The Darley Satchel Bag is a modern take on the classic satchel design.
It has a similar vibe to the Celine Teen Classic, with its clean lines and versatile size.
A.P.C. Grace Baguette Bag
A.P.C. is a French brand known for its minimalistic designs.
The Grace Baguette Bag is a classic baguette shape with a modern twist. It features leather-trimmed edges and their signature gold-tone hardware and is another I would consider a dupe for the Celine.
Oroton Quinn Leather Hobo Bag
Oroton is an Australian brand that has been around since 1938 and is best described as accessible luxury.
The Quinn Leather Hobo Bag is a perfect example of their craftsmanship, with its supple leather and easy everyday style. It gives off a Gucci aesthetic with its premium bamboo handle for a truly luxurious and unique handbag.
Aspinal of London Lottie Bag
Aspinal of London is a British brand that has been making luxury leather goods since 2001.
The Lottie Bag is a modern take, and in my opinion, a budget-friendly option for the Chanel classic flap. It has a diamond quilt pattern and is made of 100% leather with a classic gold chain. Perfect for an elegant everyday piece.
Sandro Quilted Yza Bag
Sandro is a French brand that has been around since 1984, known for its chic and effortless Parisian style.
The Quilted Yza Bag is a perfect example of their aesthetic with its quilted leather, chain strap, and elegant metal closure. It gives off an effortless yet sophisticated vibe and can easily be dressed up or down, and is another Chanel dupe option.
Polène Numéro Dix
A brand that has taken off this past year, and for good reason.
It’s a French brand that focuses on minimalist, high-quality leather bags at an affordable price point. T
he Numéro Dix is their bestseller and was a top reason the curve bags remain in such high demand. The careful stitching detail makes this one of the best options for luxurious and unique handbags.
Marc Jacob’s Curve Bag
Sticking with the curve theme, Marc Jacob’s Curve Bag hits all the marks of style and function.
It has a detachable chain and a roomy interior to help give you flexible styling options. Plus, it’s one of the few unique handbags that come in a bold color option.
Furla Primavera Bag
Furla is an Italian brand that’s been around since 1927.
Their Primavera Bag, which means “Spring” in Italian, is one of their unique luxury bags that also feature the trendy curve design. Subtle accents make this another easy-to-wear, everyday handbag.
Demellier London Tokyo Bag
Demellier London is a brand that prides itself on sustainability and giving back.
Each bag sold provides lifesaving vaccinations to children in need through the charity SOS Children’s Villages.
All of their bags are crafted in Spain where many of the top luxury brands produce their bags as well. Their Tokyo Bag is a fan-favorite for those wanting a sleek, modern, and sophisticated bag.
Aspinal of London Midi Mayfair Bag
Another top pick from this British luxury brand. Their Midi Mayfair Bag has been making waves in the fashion world thanks to its elegant design and spacious interior.
The classic croc leather bag has also been worn by royals such as Kate Middleton.
Strathberry Nano Metal Bar Tote
This Scottish brand gained popularity when Meghan Markle was spotted carrying their midi tote back in 2018.
The sleek and minimalist design of this bag makes it a versatile option for any occasion and out of most of the picks, this brand features one of the most unique metal closures.
Strathberry Crescent Bag
Another popular style from this brand, the Crescent Bag features a unique half-moon shape with their signature bar closure.
It’s the perfect blend of modern and classic design, making it a must-have for any luxury bag collection.
Songmont Luna Bag
One of the newest under-the-radar brands that is quickly gaining traction is Songmont.
Female founded, and inspired by their Orient cultural heritage, Songmont focuses on practical, stylish designs for modern women.
Their Luna bag grabbed attention by offering their customers FOUR ways to wear this one bag by its interchangeable handle. One of the most inventive and unique handbags that have come in a while.
Mlouye Wave Bag
Known for their geometric designs and unique color combinations, Mlouye has quickly become a favorite among fashion influencers.
Their Wave Bag is a standout piece with its wave-like silhouette and buttery soft leather material. It’s the perfect statement bag for those who want to add a touch of creativity to their outfit.
Charles & Keith Crossbody
With a focus on creating high-quality and affordable bags, Charles & Keith has become a go-to brand for those who are more budget-conscious.
Their crossbody bags are the perfect combination of style and functionality. The sleek designs make it easy to dress up or down, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
The Return of Oversized Totes
As we head further into the year, extra large totes, or totes meant to carry EVERYTHING in them are going to be in high demand.
Here are a few favorite unique handbags that should make it into your daily wardrobe rotation:
Staud Moon Large Tote
A style that grabbed most people’s attention on the 2023 Runways.
The Staud Moon Tote has become an instant classic. With its unique half-moon shape and sleek design, it’s perfect for those who want to make a statement while also keeping all their essentials within reach.
Anine Bing Kate Tote
Anine Bing is known for her effortlessly cool and edgy designs and the Kate Tote is no exception.
Made from luxurious Nappa leather, this tote can handle all your daily essentials and then some. Plus, the bold typography print and intermixed hardware handle give it a unique design touch.
Mansur Gavriel Soft M Leather Hobo Bag
A luxurious sculptural handbag that subtly forms the letter ‘M’ for Mansur. This designer handbag gives all of the ‘It Girl’ aesthetics we want for 2024.
A Few More Favorite Tote Options:
Unique Bow Accents
Stemming from Balletcore and the rise of the Coquette aesthetic, bows are going to be everywhere throughout 2024.
Aside from clothes and hair accessories, one place you’ll find this design feature will be in handbags.
Some unique designs to keep a look out for are:
Cuyana Mini Bow Bag
This mini crossbody bag features a knotted bow detail on the handles, adding a feminine touch to the sleek design. Made from Italian leather, it’s both durable and stylish.
Acne Studios Knotted Leather Shoulderbag
This shoulder bag from Acne Studios features a unique knotted bow detail on the front, adding a playful touch to the simple design. Made from smooth leather, it’s perfect for adding a fun design detail to any outfit.
If you’re not wanting to invest in a trendy handbag,
But still want to partake in the trend, here’s my simple styling tip. Get a printed satin scarf or hair bow and tie it onto your bag. You’ll look right on trend without breaking the bank!
More Unique Styles to Discover:
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