The Smart Beauty Edit

In an earlier post, I talked about no longer falling for slick marketing and the game luxury brands play that I used to be so susceptible to. I still love beautiful things, particularly handbags, but I now look at them through a different lens.

I have learned to ask myself: why do I love this bag, will I genuinely still love it in five or ten years, does it not scream seasonal trend, does it suit my lifestyle and am I not overpaying for something because of the brand name?

Having answered these questions, there are certain bags that I keep coming back to. In my opinion, these are timeless styles whose price points sit well below the ‘luxury bag’ margin, and whose quality and design appeal to the type of woman who doesn’t want her accessories to do the talking but still wants to look effortlessly polished.

I only own one of these, but I’ve spent a long time paying attention to materials, proportions, and how these bags are worn in real life — which tends to be more revealing than first impressions.

• Toteme T-Lock Bag

Understated and beautiful, this bag is versatile and works well with your wardrobe. I own the smaller version in a buttery caramel colour which I can wear as a clutch, cross body and shoulder bag.

That said, the clasp is slightly fidgety, which is less ideal when you’re in a hurry. It’s not a dealbreaker for me, but it’s something you become aware of over time, and worth considering if ease of use is important to you.

• DeMellier Stockholm Bag

This one is structured, minimal and polished. I love the chocolate brown suede and taupe leather iterations. Although I am not a fan of the term ‘quiet luxury’, this bag truly feels under the rader and yet incredibly elegant. I think it makes for a great day bag.

• Strathberry Kite Hobo Bag

I can’t remember a time that the hobo style hasn’t had its place in fashion. It reminds me the Saint Laurent 5 À 7, but without the obvious logo and at a fraction of the price. Fun fact: this brand is a favourite of the Princess of Wales and is known for its superior quality.

• Savette Symmetry Pochette Bag

This leans more directional and sculptural. Its design feels surprisingly unique and streamlined. This would be a great bag for evenings or dressy occasions, although I do wonder whether I could muster the patience for the flap closure with top handle. Perhaps, this is a question of lust over practicality?

• Michino Paris Lutece Bag

This bag is classic, lady-like, yet practical. Its designer, Yasu Michino, used to work for luxury houses like Sonia Rykiel en Delvaux and is said to use the same high-quality leather that houses like Hermès do. I can imagine wearing this style well into the future without tiring of it.