Modernist Málas: 11 ways to bag a simple statement piece
No more logomania, over-ornamentation or insurance policy just to carry your bits and bobs.
Let’s keep it simple.
Low-key leather bags: someone heard our call.
With ostentatious IT and trophy brethren firmly in the rearview mirror, we can now look forward to bags fulfilling their manifest destiny.
No more logomania, over-ornamentation or insurance policy just to carry your bits and bobs.
Nothing ‘ludicrously capacious’ (thank you, Succession) or so small, it functions only as a bagatelle.
We want something unassuming yet functional with plenty of pockets, hidden keyrings and easy-to-reach nooks.
Something of average size but peerless quality with a timeless aesthetic that says ‘glossy discretion’ – or matte.
We’re not fussy. We’re discerning – like these 11 modernist bags. Chic and fit for purpose.
1. ‘Teca’ two straps bag in cream, Landa, €375
2. ‘Winona’ leather bag – coal, Soeur, €395
3. Leather crossbody bag with interwoven strap – khaki, Massimo Dutti, €149
4. Mini ‘Montreal’ leather bag with braided handle – black, DeMellier, €445
5. ‘Sully’ gold edition leather bag – eggplant, Ateliers Auguste, €450
6. Mini Anchor bag – ash, Oleada, $485; approx. €457
7. Rectangular Nappa leather crossbody bag – blue, Massimo Dutti, €79.95
8. ‘Demi-Lune’ leather bag – vino, A.P.C. €450
9. 'Sling' leather bag – bourbon, Carla Rockmore, €186.95
10. ‘Fia’ leather shoulder bag - tan, Sómas, €160
11. 'Mara' leather bag - smooth chocolate, Sézane, €370
Female-founded accessories company Oleada wins big with practical pieces like the ‘Anchor’. Small but mighty with a four-way strap, this scratchproof bag is made from stain and water-resistant top grain Italian Re-plate leather recycled from the food industry and is roomy enough to hold an iPad mini, iPhone and essentials. Oleadanyc.com
Cork brand Sómas puts ease into the everyday (as Gaeilge) with chic purposeful bags sourced from Italian leather artisans. Somasstudio.com
Similarly, (Silvana) Landa’s passion for sophisticated contemporary design (think multiple straps and accordion silhouettes) is inspired by that of her Italian cobbler grandfather. Landabags.com
Spanish high street retailer Massimo Dutti has dipped into the ‘nineties back catalogue for their latest leather bag capsule. Fuss-free and uncluttered or a simple clasp closure – take your pick. Expect smooth Nappa leather at affordable prices that’ll beg the question, ‘Is that designer?’ Massimodutti.com
DeMellier delivers on its vision to create bags that help women feel empowered while giving back to people in need. Ethically made in the south of Spain from responsibly sourced leather certified by the European Leather Working Group, for every piece sold, the brand funds vaccines and treatments for children. Demellierlondon.com
