WORDS BY AMELIA BELL
When it comes to the best of this season’s bags, the names on everyone’s lips aren’t necessarily the ones you’d expect. From Simon Miller, newly-crowned king of the bucket bag to the Mehry Mu box bag every fashion girl wants to get their hands on, these are the names to know for 2018. The hype is real...
Best Designer Bamboo Bags
Who?
Jasmin Larian - the brains behind Cult Gaia - knows all about the power of an ‘It’ bag. After starting her career designing flower crowns, Larian went on to create the Ark Tote Bag, which is a genuine fashion rarity - a slow-burn style statement. After a modest success on launch, it’s developed into a must-have right now.
Why we’re obsessed
The aim is to make you look twice…and look twice you will. A striking Cult Gaia piece is a work of art made to be treasured forever. The innovation factor plus longevity, a sure-fire winner.
On our Wish List
Made out of bamboo, this new season Cult Gaia Ark Bag is the most stylish beach accessory you could wish for.
Shop the look: Cult Gaia Beach Tote, Ark Bag, Lilleth Tote, Ark Mini Tote Bag
Best Round Handbags
Who?
American-born, London-based and all-round globetrotter, it’s little wonder that designer Tara Zadeh’s travels are the creative force behind her eponymous label. Her vision celebrates multiculturalism and individuality, with geometric designs imbued by the palaces, mosques and mosaics of Iran.
Why we’re obsessed
Part jewellery, part functional handbag… Zadeh’s bracelet bags are doubling to become the statement accessory of the season.
On our Wish List
The Red Azar Bracelet Bag - because not every day can be sunny, and a pop of bright red is the mood-boosting gift you deserve.
Shop the look: Red Bracelet Bag, Blue Bracelet Bag, Yellow Bracelet Bag, Black Bracelet Bag
Best Mini Bags 2018
Who?
Naza Yousefi says she fell into the leather goods industry by a fluke, something that’s hard to believe when you spot her experimental designs slung across the arms of every Insta-star. Yousefi began creating pieces to shoot for editorials, but didn’t begin her own line, Yuzefi, until some years later. We can’t believe she waited so long...
Why we’re obsessed
Yousefi thrives on employing alternative leather craft techniques that are typically concealed in bag design - resulting in an all-new and unexpected aesthetic.
On our Wish List
The Delila Mini Bucket Bag – it’s exclusive for one thing, and comes in iridescent silver. What more could a girl ask for?
Shop the look: Brown and Orange Delila Bag, Blue Delila Bag, Silver Delila Bag, Asher Box Bag
Best Designer Crossbody Bags 2018
Who?
Creators Beste and Merve Manastir have their father to thank for the conception of their sleek label Manu Atelier; inspired by his work as a leather craftsman, they decided to launch a line of handbags in 2014. Needless to say, it took off.
Why we’re obsessed...
Their pristine model is the kind of handbag that ticks all the boxes - a time-honoured piece with modern sensibility.
On our Wish List:
This season’s offerings include staple backpacks and new cross-bodys to lust over. But if you twist our arm… the Mini Suede Fernweh Backpack.
Shop the look: Pristine Leather Bag, Demi Small Tote, Pristine Crossbody Bag, Triangle North Tote
Best Patterned and Printed Bags
Who?
Günes Mutlu’s quirky label was borne out of her discovery of vibrant ikat fabrics while wandering through the alleys of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. Today she seeks inspiration from Moroccan palaces, rugs, and jewellery for her unique bag designs.
Why we’re obsessed...
Simple form + vibrant Eastern pattern and tactile fabrics for extra pizzazz = a piece that will instantly elevate your look.
On our Wish List:
The Tambourine Bag - also known as an SS18 trophy.
Shop the look: Small Bamboo Box Bag, Pink Bamboo Box Bag, Blue Suede Box Bag, Black Pom Pom Bag
Best Bucket Bags 2018
Who?
David Corrigan and Chelsea Hansford are the duo behind cult label Simon Miller. And despite starting off as a menswear denim brand, it’s the little ‘Bonsai’ bag that’s shot the name to stardom.
Why we’re obsessed...
Simplicity is the key to their success. The striking top handle is instantly identifiable and instantly envy-inducing.
On our Wish List:
The Mini Bucket bag. More in demand than ever.
Shop the look: Black Bonsai Mini Bag, Birch Tote Bag, Yellow Birch Tote, Cream Bonsai Bucket Bag
More Bucket Bags
Who?
Designer Sarah Staudinger quips that own her personal style resembles that of an uncool school teacher. Her best-selling bags beg to differ. The aim of her label, Staud? To create practical (and stylish) handbags with a no nonsense attitude.
Why we’re obsessed...
These pieces are accessible and innovative. Even more exciting? The new season promises plush velvet, croc effect, and shiny new shapes. Just look at the constant stream of photos on Instagram from the likes of Alexa Chung.
On our Wish List:
The Mini Pink Moreau Bucket Bag.
Shop the look: Moreau Macrame Bucket Bag, Pink Bisset Bucket Bag, White Vitti Bucket Bag, Blue Bucket Bag
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