There is no feeling quite like that of when you’re sporting a handbag you love.
Whether you’re a designer handbag fanatic or not, the perfect cross-body, clutch, tote or otherwise is always a welcomed addition to any wardrobe.
And while it’s easy to become consumed with one day owning your own Chanel Boy bag or Hermès Birkin, there are plenty of affordable, quality handbag brands that won’t break the bank to distract you in the meantime.
Below, we’ve rounded up ten under-the-radar handbag labels worth having on your radar—and hopefully in your wardrobe.
Brie Leon
Founded in 2014, Brie Leon makes both jewellery and handbags, which is slightly overwhelming because we want every. single. piece.
Shop here.
Bobby Universe
If you want to invest in a handbag that’s not only stylish and sustainable, but also doing more for the world around us, look no further than Bobby Universe. The brand’s stunning designs are not only created using ethical practises, but proceeds from every sale go to charity. A favourite of Vanessa Hudgens and Shanina Shayk, don’t sleep on this timeless Melbourne brand.
Shop here.
Georgia Jay
Who can go past a baguette bag in emerald green? Or a top handle in pale yellow? New Zealand-based label Georgia Jay knows what women want—and it’s literally everything they sell.
Shop here.
YU MEI
Started in Wellington, New Zealand, Yu Mei creates unique handmade leather handbags and wallets which the Kiwis are obsessed with. Mark our words, it won’t be long before Yu Mei makes a splash across the ditch, so it’s worth getting in before the crowds.
Shop here.
Rylan Studio
Founded by influencer Brooke Testoni, Rylan’s minimalist offerings instantly became a favourite within Australia’s fashion industry. The best part? They won’t break the bank.
Shop here.
Sans Beast
Founded by Cathryn Wills, Sans Beast was born of the Melbourne-based designer’s twin passions for good design and the ethical treatment of animals. Featuring strong geometric shapes, bold colours and eye-catching hardware, Sans Beast’s collection of clutches, cross-bodies and totepacks—a cross between a tote and a backpack—are your next must-have to take you from the office to the cocktail bar.
Shop here.
Helen Kaminski
Known for their hand-woven raffia and soft-as-butter leather, Helen Kaminksi’s dreamy line of tote bags, cross-bodies are perfect for taking you from the office to the beach.
Shop here.
For The Ages
Founded in 2019, For The Ages combines novelty fabrics and nostalgic shapes into vegan handbag designs. With their two distinctive silhouettes—the Yoko Tote and the Ineva Baguette—each handbag is offered in a range of unexpected fabrications with a streamlined and minimal look that’s both wearable and versatile.
Shop here.
Respiro Studio
Sister brand of Reliquia and VALET, Respiro features an eclectic collection of resin clutches and handbags designed to add an eccentric finish to any outfit. Think pastel colourways and statement shapes, topped off with detachable chains that you can mix and match to customise your design for effortless outfit coordination.
Shop here.
Ashya
Founded in 2017, the New York-based label pours immense attention to detail on their utilitarian-inspired bags. Loved by celebrities like Beyoncé Knowles, Ashya is the brand to keep on your radar if you’re looking to pick up a versatile accessory that can be worn and loved all year round.
Shop here.
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