Handbags have never really been my thing. Being a shoe designer, I will invest in a beautifully designed pair of shoes but a bag….meh. Having said I do want to carry a nice bag that’s not crazy expensive with branding all over. Over the years I’ve explored a lot of bags, and then ended up selling them on eBay or The Real Real because I realized, I do have a particular style of bags that I like ( I prefer more structured bags), not a fan of logos, and not interested in spending $2000 on a handbag.

Here are three accessory brands I’ve discovered that have lovely designs, great quality, and are priced reasonably. Oh, and no logos!!!

ATP ATELIER

Swedish brand ATP Atelier is a shoe and accessory line I have been following for years. In 2019, I purchased a couple of bags, which I wear often. I love that there is no branding. They have a signature flap which many people comment on when I wear my bags. The leather is vegetable tan chrome free leather. If you don’t know much about chrome free leather. You can read about it here or here.

In addition to high quality leathers they also have stand out hardware that wears well.

They have beautiful colors in their collection with stand out details. Check out the strap above and this fun feather detail below.

There bags retail between $400 and $800. I’ve seen them sold mainly on their website. They also design shoes which have more classic styling. I can’t vouch for the shoes, but the bags I would definitely add more to my small bag collection.

Beatriz Furest

When I lived In Barcelona, Spain from 2005-2007, I discovered Beatriz Furets thru a Catalan friend. At the time, they only had bags, small leather goods, and a few shoes. Since then, the brand has expanded into apparel, and have lifestyle stores in Barcelona.

Why I love these bags? The bags have interesting design details, shapes, and color combinations. The leathers are high quality and the brand plays with different leathers, and textures. They’re also more reasonable priced in the $250 range.

Surprisingly enough, most of the bags are more casual, and have a soft construction compared to ATP Atelier or brands like Mansur Gavriel. The bags fit a different objective which is a more casual vibe. A few years back I purchased a Clare V bag and it did not wear very well which is why I have an aversion to soft constructed bags. However, these bags by Beatriz Furest wear extremely well, and don’t get sloppy after several years of owning the bags. I highly recommend this brand. I purchased this bag a few months ago. I regret not buying this one because even though it looks quite simple, it was beautiful on the shoulder, and was a little more structured. The pebbled leathers looks super elevated in person. I also love this one, and was also my favorite but I wanted a leather strap not a metal strap.

Polène

I want to clarify that I do not own a handbag from this brand. However, I’ve been following them for a few years and was excited to hear they have a store in NYC . I’m heading out to NYC at the end of January and will be definitely stopping by. I heard in Paris they have super long lines and so hoping I can get into the shop in NYC.

Why I love the bags? Great styling, colors, nice bag shapes, and the leathers look nice but can’t confirm, yet. I have to wait to see them in person. I also think the price point is great. The brands gives me a Mansur Gavriel vibe with better pricing.

I’ll give a full review after my trip to NYC and hopefully I’ll come back with a bag when I return.

Do you have a bag from them? Can you give any feedback?

Three Handbag brands to keep your eyes on

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