Skip the big names (and logos) for these under-the-radar minimalist bags that are sleek, simple, and super versatile. Because we love our luxe bags but don’t need to shout about it.
A welcome alternative to designer handbags decked in logomania, massive hardware and bold prints, minimalist bags have been making waves in the fashion world: and we say hell yes to simple and sleek styles that stand the test of time. Minus the big names and frivolous add-ons, you get more bang for your buck with under-the-radar labels that focus on quality, craftsmanship and innovative designs that can take you from the boardroom to the bar. There’s no denying that minimalist bags are having a moment — here are our favourites…
Mansur Gavriel
Let’s start with the Godfather of minimalist bags: Mansur Gavriel. The NY-based cult brand had the fashion world lusting for its gorgeous Italian-made pieces featuring clean lines and neutral colours with contrasting interiors. Seriously coveted since its launch in 2012, the label has since expanded with more leather options and styles including its signature bucket bags, totes, crossbody bags, backpacks, shoulder bags and clutches.
Mansur Gavriel, available online and at LaPrendo, #01-10, 15 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249675, p. 64747 8337
Building Block
Nothing screams “less is more” than this go-to minimalist label. We’re obsessed with Building Block’s collection of sleek, geometric leather bags (oh hello, cylinder and drum bags) that come in neutral hues such as tan and black. The LA-based label is ace for featuring playful silhouettes and contrasting drawstrings that are enough to give a simple bag the extra oomph without going all the way with frivolous add-ons and massive logos.
Building Block, available online and at Kapok #01-05, National Design Centre, 111 Middle Road, Singapore 188969, p. 6339 7987
PB 0110
This Danish label makes the cut for its colour palette — from pastels and neutral shades like tan and black, to bold eye-catchers like cherry red and royal blue. Its collection of user-friendly minimalist bags provides a clean slate, allowing you to fashion it with all types of outfit. Catering for men, women and children, its practical essentials are made from linen and veggie tanned leather and includes satchels, shopping bags, bucket bags and gym bags.
PB 0110, available online and at Reebonz, #01-496-499, North Atrium, Suntec City Tower 2, 3 Temasek Boulevard, Singapore 038986
Linjer
Besides its line of beautiful, minimalist watches inspired by the clean outlines of the Oslo Opera House in Norway, Linjer is better known for their quality leather bags and accessories. The Norwegian design studio started out by reaching to consumers via crowdfunding and created the highly-sought soft briefcase, constructed with high-quality leather, a rare find in the market. Linjer has since expanded to produce soft totes, bucket-inspired tulip bags, crossbody bags and more.
Linjer, available at Kapok, #01-05, National Design Centre, 111 Middle Road, Singapore 188969, p. 6339 7987
Erin Templeton
If you’re all about shopping consciously, you’ll be buzzin’ to fill your closets with Erin Templeton’s line of minimalist arm candies. Her collection of handbags and accessories are handmade in-house from recycled leathers and feature minimal hardware for that simple, timeless look. With a variety of sizes and styles, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Erin Templeton, available online
Daphny Raes
Say goodbye to massive, screaming logos. With simplicity in mind, Daphny Raes carefully curated natural leather bags are designed with essentials and colours that are timeless and versatile with all sorts of outfits — prints or otherwise. These luxe leather bags won’t breaking the bank either.
Daphny Raes, available online
Creatures of Comfort
Aren’t we all? Offering sleek, modern fashion pieces minus all the fuss and massive logos, Creatures of Comfort’s playfully elegant designs are reflected on its collection of suede crossbody bags, leather totes and cotton malia bags in a myriad of colours. It’s perfect for anyone to spice up their minimalist wardrobe without going overboard with crazy prints and bold juxtaposition of colours.
Creatures of Comfort, available online
The Horse
This Aussie brand is hot for its leather lifestyle goods. We’re fans of its minimalist timepieces known as ‘The Original’, as well as leather bags in classic, timeless designs and modern styles such as the moon clutch, the envelope clutch and tote bags in the gorgeous hues of nude, olive, tan, grey, black and more.
The Horse, available online at authorised stockists including Little Man and The Goodluck Bunch
Status Anxiety
Another Australian favourite, Status Anxiety is jam-packed with handbags, backpacks, clutches, travel bags and totes that are designed to be deceptively functional — think plenty of pockets and compartments hidden within its minimalist facade. As opposed to massive logos, its teeny, tiny label is used sparingly across its range of premium leather handbags — great for fans of the clean look.
Status Anxiety, available online and at multiple stockists including The Wallet Shop, Red Dot Design Museum and Yacht 21
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