Suddenly, the Most Stylish People I Know Are Carrying One of These Understated, Anti-Trend Handbags

One of the perks of being a fashion editor is the privilege of discovering independent businesses. Now and again, I find myself wilfully entangled in a narrative that endears me to a brand. Its infancy, how it laid its roots to blossom (which, in the case of handbag brand Strathberry, was quite literally on the kitchen floor), the community, concept and how the handbags (in this instance) were conceptualised. From the very start to the completed product on the shelf, I'm hooked. Strathberry may be a little-known brand amongst luxury handbag players, but since celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2023, it's been firmly establishing itself in the UK and overseas markets as a name to know for bags with understated elegance and architectural shaping.

Strathberry was founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife duo Leanne and Guy Hundleby, and despite being a relative newcomer when compared to the long-established brands that dominate the leather goods category, Strathberry manages to speak a language of heritage and heirloom. Each style features its distinguishable bar closure, foil-embossed Strathberry emblem and hand-painted piping, demonstrating the impressive attention to detail. Its factory also oversees the production of Loewe’s leather goods, so these bags are in good company.

Jodie Comer carries the Strathberry Mini Tote.

With the prevalence of quiet luxury and the growing discernment of the average consumer, it's fair to say that we're all collectively prioritising quality items—the pieces that we'll have for years, will retain their beauty and may even be passed down through generations. And whilst many associate quiet luxury with high-end fashion houses, I think it's best attributed to brands like Strathberry, where quality precedes and the USP is thoughtfully crafted, lifetime pieces.

The brand's fanbase includes the likes of Meghan Markle and Jodie Comer, and it also has the royal stamp of approval from Catherine, Princess of Wales, who is often pictured carrying a Strathberry bag when on engagements. Plus, with prices in the main collection ranging from £195 (for pocket-sized leather goods) to £695 (for sizeable totes), this is luxury of the far more affordable kind.

Intrigued? Scroll on to see and shop some of my favourite Strathberry handbags.

The 8 Best Strathberry Handbags

1. Strathberry Mosaic

Style Notes: Convertibility is a prevalent theme in Strathberry's bags, and the Mosaic is the ultimate design for day and evening wear. Multiple panels of leather are stitched together, forming a meticulous construction inspired by Scottish mosaic artists. Available in multiple sizes, colours and finishes, this cult handbag is one of Strathberry's bestsellers for good reason. Clasp the top handle and carry it, or add the crossbody strap for a hands-free experience.

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2. Strathberry Lana

Style Notes: Perfectly slouchy yet incredibly refined, Lana is arguably the best Strathberry bag for everyday use. It's spacious and versatile, with an adjustable strap that can be worn crossbody or slung over the shoulder. Top tip: pick it up in pebbled leather if you plan on carrying it everywhere with you, as this grained finish is typically more durable than smooth leather.

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3. Strathberry Tote

Style Notes: The Strathberry Tote was first released the same year the brand was founded, making it a true original. The Midi Tote was catapulted to popularity when Meghan Markle carried it on a royal walkabout in Nottingham in 2017, and since then, Strathberry has gone on to release many iterations—including the more compact Mini and Nano Tote. Each version boasts the same boxy silhouette, iconic Music Bar and multi-strap design.

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4. Strathberry East West

Style Notes: Many celebrities—including Katie Holmes and Meghan Markle—have been seen with a version of the East West bag. Its defining characteristic is an elongated bar across the front flap, though most iterations also have a chain strap and rectangular shape. Handcrafted in Spain from top-quality leather, this sleek handbag expertly balances wearability with standout details, making it a valuable example of what Strathberry does best.

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5. Strathberry Crescent

Style Notes: The Crescent collection can be divided in two; Crescent Moon is a sculpted handbag with a zip closure and curved strap, while Box Crescent is—as the name suggests—a more structured design with an arc-shaped bar on the front. United by a shared elegance and attention to detail, each offers a different aesthetic which ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Crescent Moon is slightly roomier, if that's important to you.

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6. Strathberry Charlotte

Style Notes: One of Strathberry's most recent releases, Charlotte became an instant bestseller. Its contemporary pouch design is elevated by impeccable craftsmanship—hallmarks of a brand that has mastered the art of understated luxury. Transition your Charlotte from day to night by unclipping the long strap and using it as a clutch.

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7. Strathberry Osette

Style Notes: Osette is less structured than Strathberry's other handbags, with a fluidity that draws from traditional sculpture. An update on the classic bucket bag, it features a drawstring closure and the brand's signature Music Bar. Tan and black iterations are staples of the core collection, with fresh colourways released each season. There's also a shopper version, for those who prefer a roomier companion.

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8. Strathberry Multrees

Style Notes: Multrees takes its name from the location of Strathberry's first store in Edinburgh—so it goes without saying that this is a significant design for the brand. Kate Middleton carrying the chain wallet version only solidified its importance. The signature bar secures a wide flap, making it the perfect city bag; whether you favour the Multrees in sand, tan or classic black.

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This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.