We asked Emily Blumenthal, the genius behind the Independent Handbag Designer Awards, to find 12 bags worth carrying, whether you’re going all glammed out or having a low-key dinner with friends to ring in the new year.
Handbag Designer2 NYE bags
-
BiniChic
“Created by a mother-daughter duo out of Menorca who have had years of experience creating patterns and textiles for ABC Carpet and Bergdorf Goodman, these two women passionately create bags that have whimsy and fun.”
-
By Navira
“The craftsmanship of the Abramo laser cut lambskin speaks for itself. Created by Navira Abbasi, a self-taught designer, she started making handbags for her friends in 2011 and after traveling the world in 2012, decided it was worth doing full-time.”
-
Elyse & i by Cheet London
“Architecturally-inspired, the Suki clutch has an interlocking, coiled knot sculpted onto the flap made from leather piping. Just in case you don’t want to rock a clutch, there is a woven strap stashed inside for moments when being hands-free to hold that cocktail is needed. British designer Emily Cheetham, who now resides in Singapore, has taken this label from her kitchen table to making women happy with their handbags around the globe.”
-
Dapper Diction
“This Mini Luv satchel boasts rose gold accents and luxe gray python embossed panels. All made with buttery leather and unique hardware, the juxtaposition of the hard and soft will make this your go-to item for beyond just the holidays.”
-
Dareen Hakim
“Le Barcelona may be petite in size, but the sleek brass covering the front metal flap ensures that it won't go unnoticed. Throw it over your shoulder as a reflecting head turner or carry it as a shining clutch. The bag was created by Dareen Hakim, a Harvard Business School graduate, who has certainly done her research.”
-
Katherine Kwei
“With the long chain shoulder strap that can be tucked inside, this clutch is a show-stopper and loved by all. Interesting fact about Katherine Kwei bags is that she incorporates her Chinese 'Eternity' knot-inspired weave into many of her designs. Katherine was also the first winner of the Best Handbag in Style and Design for the Independent Handbag Designer Awards.”
-
Jess Rizzuti
“The Sophie Hard baguette features wood cork with gold and linen as an exterior and is lined with a complementary batik fabric print. Nominated as the 2013 Best Green Handbag, this sustainable beauty can make going green more than just something good for the environment. Designer Jess Rizzuti is a graduate of RISD and FIT, is known for her use of cork and innovative approach to material and development.”
Jess Rizzuti Sophie Hard Baguette in Natural Cork with Gold Embossed Check, $625
-
Joanna Maxham
“The Charter in black patent is a sleek envelope clutch with a raised front pocket and statement luggage lock closure. Carry it in your hand or on your shoulder with the removable chain because this patent gem features enough storage space for a phone or a medium-sized wallet. Joanna Maxham puts a little something extra in each bag; her heritage. Crafted in her hometown country of Poland, Joanna makes sure that you feel a little bit European with every bag.”
-
Laimushka
“Created by Latvian Laima Cirkova, who gave up her successful career in banking in Riga and went to get her Masters in Fashion Design in Stockholm, this bag demonstrates how inspiration can really turn into a beautiful product. This is when a throwback moment reinterpreted is done right.”
Laimushka Black Grace Leather Bag with Detachable Chain, $369
-
MeDusa
"Handmade from their studio in Tel Aviv, all MeDusa bags are made by best friends Adi and Gili. This bag was the winner of the Best Handmade Handbag category for the 2014 Independent Handbag Designer Awards and was a favorite of the judges and audience alike. Total knockout."
-
Mondrina
“The Mondrina Delphine crossbody is another option instead of going black. Made with red cognac viper snakeskin, this understated little crossbody can turn that faux fur ensemble into a 70s-inspired outfit to die for. All Mondrina bags are made in Peru by prison workers and their families are paid for their work. The bags are all transported by donkey across the hills in order to make it all the way back to you, which makes this a great socially responsible item that is definitely worthy of the investment.”
-
Moni & J
"Moni & J handbags were discovered at the 2014 Handbag Awards and were a finalist in the Best Handbag in Overall Style Design. Made by Syrian designer Manar Laktineh, who lives in Kuwait, these bags all have that high-end luxe feel that make you feel like you are part of the glitz and glam shopping in Dubai."
Moni & J Marshal Bag, $960
