The best handbags from Australian and New Zealand labels
image via @georgiajaybags/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY HANNAH COHEN and fashion journal
High quality bags to carry you through your day.
Leaving the house without the Big Five (phone, wallet, keys, headphones, lip balm) would be criminal, right? To make sure you’re never without these essentials, we’ve compiled a list of the best independent labels making our favourite designer bags.
Whether you’re looking for a capacious leather tote for work, a going-out handbag made from upcycled belts, or a brown suede bag for daily errands, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to local bag labels.
For more style suggestions, head to our Fashion category.
As we know, our impact on the planet extends far beyond the tops and pants we choose to purchase – we can make a difference by mindfully selecting our accessories, too. With this in mind, this list features some labels that are not just pleasing to look at, but are locally and sustainably made.
Yu Mei
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No one does understated luxury quite like Yu Mei. The cult New Zealand-based label has been around since 2015, when founder Jessie Wong set out to make a quality leather bag that could carry a laptop and everything else she needed in a day. While Yu Mei bags are predominantly crafted from ultra-soft deer nappa, the Utility range is made from light, durable regenerated nylon, making it perfect for travel.
St Agni
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Byron Bay label St Agni knows good bags. From large leather totes to woven shoulder bags, they’re utilitarian, sleek and big on the small details. Though they’re an investment, St Agni makes the kind of bags you’ll still be using years from now.
Brie Leon
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Looking for a leather bag but want to bypass animal products? Brie Leon’s vegan leather bags are PETA-approved, and arrive in completely recyclable packaging. The Australian accessories label experiments with unexpected hardware and the dreamiest hues – think pale yellows, creamy whites, dark olives and tonal browns.
Georgia Jay
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Sculptural, pared-back and made to last, Georgia Jay’s handbags are designed and handmade in the label’s Auckland studio. The brand is known for its playful approach to shape and colour, with distinctive silhouettes made from supple Italian leather. From statement handbags to wallets and pouches, there’s a Georgia Jay piece for every mood, and quite possibly every colour of the rainbow.
Karlaidlaw
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You can spot a Karlaidlaw bag from a mile away. Which is a good thing – carrying one of Melbourne designer’s bags means you have impeccable taste. The label’s iconic slouchy silhouettes come in a range of fun shades, from classic brown leather and olive green to metallic silver and cobalt blue suede. Always finished with the signature K buckle. IYKYK.
Poppy Lissiman
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An Australian cult classic, Poppy Lissiman’s cruelty-free, vegan bags are made of high-quality faux leather or suede and come in a wide array of vibrant designs. If you’re looking to avoid animal leather goods, Poppy’s bags provide a brilliantly coloured alternative.
Deadly Ponies
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Founded in 2005, Deadly Ponies is the New Zealand-based label loved for its premium leather accessories and classic design aesthetic. Made from luxurious, quality materials like goat leather, bovine and python, styles range from glossy cherry micro-bags to cheetah-print baguettes and chocolate suede carry-alls.
July
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Designed to elevate your travel experience, July merges innovation with practicality. The Melbourne brand’s suitcases are made with considered features like eggshell corners and scratch-proof textures, while its smaller designs – including totes, weekender bags and gorgeous leather handbags – will hold everything you need throughout the day.
Elas
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Started as a hobby between mother and daughter, Melbourne-based label Elas offers custom and handmade crochet pieces. Each product reflects the designers’ Brazilian roots, using vibrant yarns to make colourful handbags, accessories and swimwear.
Simetrie
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Melbourne-based label Simetrie is all about balancing style with sustainability. Its kangaroo leather goods are designed and made by local craftswomen who use all-natural materials. Simetrie prides itself on a slow business model to combat the exploitation and waste we see too often in the fashion industry. From tote bags to pouches, expect minimalist designs that will be a timeless addition to any outfit.
Tough Auto
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Luxury designed to be lived in. An emerging label from Auckland, New Zealand, Tough Auto is an expert with all things leather. Currently offering two bags and two wallets, Tough Auto’s pieces are built to last (and reel in the compliments). A label to watch.
Saben
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New Zealand label Saben has been in the bag business since 2002, balancing playful design with the kind of functionality that makes a bag genuinely useful. Founded by Roanne Jacobson, Saben’s collections are built around beautiful soft leathers, considered details and silhouettes designed to become everyday staples. From chocolate shoulder bags to punchy ink-blue carry-alls, you’ll find the sort of bag you’ll reach for long after the trend cycle has moved on.
Rylan Studio
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Rylan Studio’s bags are a classic addition to your capsule wardrobe. Designed in Sydney and crafted from luxurious, smooth Italian calf leather, its timeless designs include suede mini totes, large woven totes and buckled satchels that take you from day to night.
For more sustainable bag labels, head here.
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