As a fashion editor with a serious case of handbag-obsession, uncovering new bag styles on the market has become a bit of a weakness for me. I may be the only person among my friends who sets an alarm for release dates, and if there's a limited edition drop to be found, you can guarantee I've already added it to my wish list; but my real passion comes from finding bags that look like they cost the earth but are really much more affordable finds.
In the wake of Walmart's trending take on the Hermés Birkin, or should I say the "Wirkin", there is conclusive proof that shoppers are looking for a bag that comes in at no more than three figures but has the same eye for detail as any other luxury fashion house offering. I myself have a couple of designer bags from the likes of Loewe and JW Anderson, and secondhand steals from Fendi and Louis Vuitton that I will cherish for a lifetime due to their craftsmanship, but when it comes to the styles I use time and time again, the right bag is a premium quality, yet modestly priced piece that will go with everything I own—enter DeMellier.
Regular readers will know just how much Who What Wear editors love
London-based brand DeMellier, and it's easy to see why. From their contemporary take on timeless silhouettes to their commitment to sustainably sourced materials, they are not only a hot topic in our group chat, but are also regularly spotted on the arms of Instagrams best dressed. Just when we thought it couldn't get better than the brand's now iconic New York tote, I stumbled across a brand new style in the new-in section—the Hudson handbag, and I am convinced that once word gets out, this bag is about to be everywhere too.
The Hudson collection compromises of three colours (so far), and is a tall, structured top-handle roomy enough for all of your essentials. In true DeMellier style it comes in a grained leather and a (gasp!) luxe suede iteration too—perfectly designed to sit in crook of your arm, be carried from the top, or even slung over your shoulder with the hidden shoulder strap. Could this be a stronger contender for "the perfect everyday bag"? I'm inclined to say so.
(Image credit: DeMellier London)
As the proud owner of not only the DeMellier Tokyo bag but also the Capri basket, the Hudson is next on my hit list (should it stay in stock for long enough). So consider this your warning—good bags don't come along often, and if you're in a "new year new bag" kind of mood, keep scrolling to see and shop DeMellier's Hudson bags in every colour, and to see more of our favourite styles from the brand too.
Shop the DeMellier Hudson Tote Bag:
DeMellier
The Hudson | Mocha Suede & Mocha Smooth
DeMellier
The Hudson | Black Small Grain
Doesn't the black look like it cost at least three times it's price tag?
DeMellier
The Hudson | Tan Small Grain
Okay, this has "quiet luxury" written all over it.
Shop More of Our Favourite DeMellier Bags:
DeMellier
The New York Shoulder | Black Small Grain
I fell for the East/West silhouette from the moment I saw it.
Demellier
The New York Shoulder | Off-White Small Grain
There's something so dreamy about this style in cream.
Demellier
The Midi New York | Burgundy Small Grain
The New York looks even better in burgundy.
Demellier
The Midi New York | Black Small Grain
But who am I to argue with classic black?
Demellier
The Vancouver | Black Smooth
A cute, mini crossbody for the busy days you need your hands free.
Demellier
The Vancouver | Off-White Smooth
I'd wear this with a grey blazer, white tee and blue jeans.
Demellier
The Montreal | Deep Toffee Smooth
Such a delicious shade of buttery toffee.
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