Just bag this: Eye candy for your arm
Editor’s note: Whether you are looking to carry your whole world in it, out at work or for that statement piece that will be talked about much after you have left a party—this list of handbag and wallet brands by the splainer fam has you covered.
Chiaroscuro: The splainer fam loves this brand of leather handbags, wallets and accessories! Shilpa says it is “sturdy, gorgeous and durable”. Inderpreet has been using them for over a decade and has never had a “bad bag day”—and would “buy all the designs if she could”. She especially recommends the Neela Kantha Caro. Other fans include Preeti who bought their wallets and Joyjayanti—who is all about a handcrafted, customisable “woman-led” brand. (Price range: Rs 2, 650 to Rs 13,450)
The Burlap People: The brand comes highly recommended by Lavisha—who swears by their backpack. But, she says they have great handbags too! They are made out of jute, have extended warranties, and can be customised. The good news: They’re super durable: “I know of people who used them for 8 years,” she says. (Price: Rs. 5,670)
Lukka Chuppi: Shikha’s pick is this quirky homegrown brand—and its box yellow clutch for ease of use and versatility (see below). If you are looking for a wallet, the Money Clip is best. (Price: Rs 2,699)
Mai Soli: Prachi loves good shoulder bags for just how spacious they are. They serve everyday purposes with ease. She’s always opted for Da Milano ones but has recently started using one from the homegrown brand. They are of excellent quality and affordable too! (Price range: Rs 2,209 to Rs 9,999)
Tan and Loom: Jahnavi loves this homegrown brand that works with both Western and Indian apparel. She loves the everyday Espresso Gamechanger which “fits multiple things. Has space for an iPad, a Kindle, and a wallet”. Plus, it’s a structured bag. (Price: Rs 7,200)
Zouk: This brand has become the go-to for office-goers who want to fit their entire lives into a bag. Asawari likes that they come in a range of Indian prints—be it an oversized tote or a pretty backpack. (Price: Rs 1,499)
Grassroot by Anita Dongre: Snehal loves the functional and stylish bags that she describes as “literal pieces of art”. She specifically recommends the Root Core tote bag because: “It's vegan but also plastic-free. Perfectly sized. Accommodates a lot but doesn't look too big. Has a closure and zipped and open pouches inside which a lot of totes don't have.” Also on her fave list: hand-painted Pichwai clutches (see below). (Price range: Rs 7,500 to Rs 15,000)
Behno: The Indian brand is well-known for its statement pieces. Prachi can’t get enough of her structured gold baguette that fits her party essentials and elevates any outfit. The quality is great and the prices are affordable for a luxury brand. (Price range: Rs 5,000 to Rs 18,000)
The Postbox: Prachi recommends this brand for literally everything; from wallets to handbags and backpacks. Designed well, with clean lines they are both durable and affordable—and offer canvas and leather options. We also appreciate the functionality of the mobile swing below. (Price range: Rs 4,000 to Rs 10,000)
Fave picks from generic big brands…
Textured Oversized Structured Shoulder Bag from Mango: Though it is a fast fashion brand, Arunima speaks highly of this Mango tote bag, which has become her constant. “It’s classy, spacious and fits my laptop. It’s comfy, chic with a structured design and a leather look.” (Price: Rs 3,190)
Round Mini Shoulder Bag from Uniqlo: A handbag list wouldn’t be complete without the cult favourites. Pankhuri and Bhavna swear by Uniqlo’s U-shaped or mini round shoulder bag. It’s deceptive in size but fits nearly everything they need. It also has many colours and works with every kind of outfit. (Price: Rs 1,490)
Longchamp: Ruchika favours this Parisian brand for handbags “that are water resistant, lightweight and foldable. So, easiest to pack into a carry-on or suitcase”. She recommends the La Pilage M with the long shoulder strap. (Rs 14,199)
Oklahoma 02 sling bag from Hidesign: Aarthi recommends this Oklahoma sling bag that has compartments to fit everything from her wallet to phone chargers and even a tiny water bottle! (Price: Rs 7,495)
Coach: Ruchika says the Coach wristlets are great: “Easy to hook to your wrist and carry around as is outside of a bag, many colours and prints available.” (Price range: Rs 11,500 to Rs 39,500)
