Indie Handbag Independent Bag Brands Clutched UK
TRENDS

Call Off The Search — These Are The Indie Bags With Real Cult Status

by Clutched.

Independent Handbag Bags

There’s a difference between a handbag everyone’s seen and a handbag people ask about. The former floods your feed. The latter turns heads on the street and sparks quiet DM requests for the brand tag. That’s the kind of recognition these indie handbag labels are earning, not through hype machines or splashy logos, but by doing something very right, very well, and very intentionally.

From Seoul to Stockholm, these are the names fashion insiders are already carrying, not because they’re trying to be first, but because they’re paying attention. Whether it’s Savette’s heirloom-level precision , Neous’ sharpness, or Dragon Diffusion’s woven cult classics, these brands all have that rare, unforced credibility that earns real cult status..

 

 

The Quiet Icons

 

Savette

Savette was established in 2020 by Amy Zurek, a designer with a proven track record in the luxury fashion sector. Zurek’s previous roles include designing for high-profile brands such as Coach, The Row, and Khaite, where she developed a reputation for creating covetable and functional handbags. The brand’s name is a personal tribute, derived from Zurek’s mother’s maiden name, reflecting a deep connection to heritage. Savette’s design philosophy is rooted in modern and Renaissance art influences, aiming to create handbags that transcend seasonal trends and stand the test of time. The brand’s vision is to produce pieces that can be passed down as heirlooms.

 

Savette Slim Symmetry Suede Tangerine Pochette

Savette

Slim Symmetry Suede Tangerine Pochette – £1,350

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Savette Symmetry 19 Herringbone Linen and Smooth Leather Trim

Savette

Symmetry 19 Herringbone Linen and Smooth Leather Trim Bag – £1,600

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

DeMellier

Founded in 2010 as Milli Millu and rebranded in 2017,DeMellier it was first noticed by fashion editors for its designer-looking bags at lower prices, a move that set it apart from the usual high-end suspects. The brand’s founder, Mireia Llusia-Lindh, brings a background in luxury fashion, with advisory roles at Burberry and LVMH. DeMellier resonates with women who care deeply about fashion as a personal and social statement.

 

DeMellier The Siena Poppy Red Small Grain Leather Hobo

DeMellier

The Siena Poppy Red Small Grain Leather Hobo – £475

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

DeMellier The Midi Hudson Black Small Grain Leather Bag

DeMellier

The Midi Hudson Black Small Grain Leather Bag – £495

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Polène

Polène, founded in 2016 by Parisian siblings Antoine, Mathieu, and Elsa Mothay, has become a go-to for minimalist yet distinctive handbags, handcrafted in Ubrique, Spain, using premium Italian leather. With prices starting at £320, iconic styles like the Numéro Un, Cyme, and Numéro Dix, in shades like camel and chalk, have won over fashion insiders and celebrities like Yeri and Kanna Hashimoto, boosted by a strong Instagram presence and stores in Paris, New York, Tokyo, Seoul, and London.

 

Polène Mokki Mini Camel Leather Shoulder Bag

Polène

Mokki Mini Camel Leather Shoulder Bag – £480

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Polène Cyme Mini Cognac Canvas Shoulder Bag

Polène

Cyme Mini Cognac Canvas Shoulder Bag – £350

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Cult Classics with a Twist

 

Dragon Diffusion

Dragon Diffusion earned a cult following for its hand-woven leather handbags, crafted in India from buffalo and cow leather. With prices starting at £250, styles like the Triple Jump and Santa Croce, in hues such as dark brown and forest green, offer accessible luxury that’s caught the eye of fashion insiders like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

 

Dragon Diffusion Bamboo Triple Jump Big Woven Forest Green Leather Tote

Dragon Diffusion

Bamboo Triple Jump Big Woven Forest Green Leather Tote – £395

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Dragon Diffusion Bali Woven Mint Leather Tote Basket Bag

Dragon Diffusion

Bali Woven Mint Leather Tote Basket Bag – £410

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Neous

Celebrities like Elle Fanning have been spotted with Neous bags, notably the Phoenix Baguette, in places like London’s Notting Hill and New York’s SoHo. Neous, founded in 2017 by Australian-Egyptian designer Vanissa Antonious in London, started with footwear before launching handbags in 2020, quickly gaining a foothold in luxury fashion. Neous has cementing its status as a cult favourite among fashion editors. Most notable bags include Neptune Hobo, Phoenix Baguette, Scorpius Tote, and Dorado Crossbody, all handcrafted in Italy with LWG-certified calf leather, in hues such as dark taupe, ivory, and black.

 

Neous Phoenix Off White Leather & Raffia Tote

Neous

Phoenix Off White Leather & Raffia Tote – £645

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Neous Taurus Leather Trimmed & Woven Neutral Raffia Tote

Neous

Taurus Leather Trimmed & Woven Neutral Raffia Tote – £665

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

JW Pei

The all vegan leather handbag lineup ranges from the Gabbi Ruched Hobo to the Joy Shoulder Bag. Gigi Hadid, Megan Fox, Emily Ratajkowski, and Hailey Bieber have been seen with the Gabbi, spotted everywhere from LA’s Melrose Avenue to London’s Shoreditch. Founded in 2018 by Chinese-American couple Yang Pei and Stephanie Li in Los Angeles, JW PEI has carved out a niche in the affordable luxury market, with a viral presence on Instagram and TikTok.

 

JW Pei Yara Deep Burgundy Shoulder Bag

JW Pei

Yara Deep Burgundy Shoulder Bag – £115

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

JW Pei Ziva Metal Lock Black Tote Bag

JW Pei

Ziva Metal Lock Black Tote Bag – £135

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

 

Customisable Colour and Character

 

O Bag

Italian brand founded in 2009 by Full Spot, has carved a niche with its modular, customisable handbags and accessories, crafted from lightweight XL Extralight® material. The brand offers bags like the O Bag Classic, O Bag Square, and O Bag Mini, which can be personalised with interchangeable handles and inner linings in colours such as black, navy, and coral, like the Classic Black with rope handles. While celebrities like Italian influencer Chiara Ferragni have been linked to the brand, their bags are generally spotted in European street style, particularly in Milan and London. The brand’s vibrant, mix-and-match aesthetic remains a draw.

 

O Bag Beach Freesia Canvas Fabric Combo Bag

O Bag

O Bag Beach Freesia Canvas Fabric Combo Bag – £90

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

O Bag O Bag Mini Combo in Sand

O Bag

O Bag Mini Combo in Sand – £99.60

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Liffner

This Stockholm-based brand by Paulina Liffner von Sydow, offers minimalist handbags handcrafted in Italy, including the Tulip Tote, Mini Bucket Bag, and Croissant Bag, in shades like black, cognac, and sage green. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner have been spotted with its bags in cities like Los Angeles and Paris. Initially a niche label, it has grown into a cult favourite, with a focus on clean, Scandi-inspired designs that resonate with fashion editors globally.

 

Liffner Mega Sprout Tan Suede Tote

Liffner

Mega Sprout Tan Suede Tote – £645

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Liffner Buckled Black Leather Bucket Bag

Liffner

Buckled Black Leather Bucket Bag – £575

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Mashu

Crafted in Athens using plant-based materials like apple leather and Piñatex, include the Amaryllis top-handle, Eos bucket bag, and Nemesis shoulder bag are available in shades like black, olive, and cream. Founded in 2019 by Greek designer Ioanna Topouzoglou in London, the brand has made waves in the sustainable luxury space, earning PETA approval. Its ethical ethos caught the eye of fashion insiders, with the Amaryllis spotted on influencers in London’s Mayfair and Paris’s Le Marais.

 

Mashu Nicole Natural Raffia Shoulder Bag

Mashu

Nicole Natural Raffia Shoulder Bag – £270

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Mashu Aphrodite 2 Sade Shoulder Bag

Mashu

Aphrodite 2 Sade Shoulder Bag – £260

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

 

The New Sustainable Vanguard

 

Atomy Studios

Founded in 2019 by Anna Szopa-Kim in Gdańsk, Poland, Atomy offers handbags like the Atom Linda baguette, Atom Mini Arc, and Atom Libra Tote, made from Italian nappa or vegan leather in colours such as black, hazelnut, and vanilla, all produced with a focus on sustainable practices. The brand’s designs have been spotted on influencers in Warsaw’s Praga district and throughout Europe. Atomy Studios is steadily gaining ground in the eco-conscious luxury market, driven by its commitment to small-scale, environmentally aware production.

 

Atomy Atom Dia Fortuna Cherry Shoulder Bag

Atomy

Atom Dia Fortuna Cherry Shoulder Bag – €419

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Atomy Atom Sirena Black Shoulder Bag

Atomy

Atom Sirena Black Shoulder Bag – €529

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Anema

Anema, born in Naples in 2020, has quickly gained traction with its vegan handbags, crafted from organic hemp, apple fibre, and cactus leather. The brand’s sustainable focus has landed it in the spotlight, with its bags seen on influencers during Milan Fashion Week and Naples’ chic Posillipo district. Anema’s profile rose further with its 2025 Parthéa bag collaboration with Ohoskin, earning nods from Leather & Luxury for its eco-forward approach in the luxury market.

 

Anema Sibilla Cruise Top Handle Bag in Azzurra

Anema

Sibilla Cruise Top Handle Bag in Azzurra – €210

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Anema Nea Medium Croco Brown Bag

Anema

Nea Medium Croco Brown Bag – €265

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Aspassia Tagliente

Handbags from Aspassia Tagliente, founded in 2019 by Italian-Greek designer Aspassia Tagliente in Brussels, Belgium, include the Kety bag, Mini Kety, and spacious Sirenuse tote, all crafted in Italy using high-quality leather and inspired by mermaid mythology. The brand has been spotted on actress Bella Thorne, featured in a L’Officiel Monaco shoot, and on influencers in Milan and Monaco’s fashion scenes.

 

Aspassia Tagliente Gea Scarlet Crossbody Bag

Aspassia Tagliente

Gea Scarlet Crossbody Bag – £828

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Aspassia Tagliente Antonia Letterina in Blue Marine Textured Evening Bag

Aspassia Tagliente

Antonia Letterina in Blue Marine Textured Evening Bag – £693

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

 

Playful Icons and Statement Pieces

 

Braccialini

Graziella Braccialini began as a small atelier crafting leather handbags and has since evolved into a bold player in luxury accessories, known for its playful, art-inspired designs. The brand’s current collection features bags like the Beth hobo with removable pouches, the embellished Giselle in eco-leather, and the sleek Penelope. Italian actress Monica Bellucci and model Bianca Balti have been spotted with Braccialini bags at Milan Fashion Week and Florence’s Pitti Uomo. Braccialini continues to thrive in the high-end market for their quirky creativity with Italian tradition.

 

Braccialini Audrey Jaguar Top Handle Bag

Braccialini

Audrey Jaguar Top Handle Bag – £1,320

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Braccialini Deva in Pink Ostrich-Effect Leather Top Handle Bag

Braccialini

Deva in Pink Ostrich-Effect Leather Top Handle Bag – £880

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Chylak

Made in Poland, these bags use premium Italian leather with finishes of glossy black, cream, and black ostrich-embossed. The brand’s offerings include the structured Flap Bag with Sculptural Seal, the roomy Shell Bag, and the versatile Shopper Bag. Its Summer 2025 collection, inspired by Warsaw’s historic Wilanów district, introduces floral motifs and textures. Spotted on celebrities like Suki Waterhouse in London’s Soho and Alexa Chung in Paris, Chylak’s bags have also appeared in Vogue Polska and Elle, cementing its status as a cult favourite.

 

Chylak Glossy Black Shoulder Bag with Flower Buckle

Chylak

Glossy Black Shoulder Bag with Flower Buckle – £490

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Chylak Patchwork Black Mini Tote

Chylak

Patchwork Black Mini Tote – £345

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Objets Daso

The luxury handbag collection from Objets Daso, conceived in South Korea and launched in London in 2021, features designs like the Hye, a sleek top-handle bag, and the Vivian, a refined bucket bag, all crafted in Italy using LWG-certified leather. Spotted on influencers in London’s Mayfair and Seoul’s Gangnam district, the brand has gained traction with fashion editors for its minimalist, distinctive aesthetic.

 

Objets Daso Josephine Tan Leather Top Handle Bag

Objets Daso

Josephine Tan Leather Top Handle Bag – £1,430

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Objets Daso Vivian Ivory Leather Bucket Bag

Objets Daso

Vivian Ivory Leather Bucket Bag – £1,470

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

 

Parisian Minimalism and Architectural Cool

 

Maison Rinceau

Maison Rinceau, originally launched as Basile in 2020 by French founder Basile Rinceau in Paris, rebranded to its current name to reflect its architectural-inspired leather goods, with handbags like the Le Sac Dianna and Le Petit Apollon. The brand’s designs have been spotted on French influencers in Paris’s Le Marais and at Versailles’ Notre Dame Market Square.

 

Rinceau Le Sac Mona Bordeaux Shoulder Bag

Rinceau

Le Sac Mona Bordeaux Shoulder Bag – £301

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Rinceau Le Mini Apollon Olive Grain Shoulder Bag

Rinceau

Le Mini Apollon Olive Grain Shoulder Bag – £192

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

ATP Atelier

ATP Atelier produces handbags like the Assisi Shoulder Bag, Montalcino Mini, and Corsina Tote, made in Italy with leather in black saffiano, brandy, and lemonade hues. Their designs have been spotted on actress Alicia Vikander and influencers in Stockholm’s Södermalm and Copenhagen’s Nyhavn.

 

ATP Atelier Silea Ecru Cannella Canvas Leather Mini Hobo Bag

ATP Atelier

Silea Ecru Cannella Canvas Leather Mini Hobo Bag – £470

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

ATP Atelier Gaiba Ecru Cannella Canvas Leather Mini Tote Bag

ATP Atelier

Gaiba Ecru Cannella Canvas Leather Mini Tote Bag – £470

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Cuyana

Cuyana’s handbag and accessory line, crafted in Argentina, Turkey, and Italy with LWG-certified leather, includes the Classic Structured Tote, System Tote, Hobo Bag, and Easy Tote, available in shades like black, stone, and cappuccino, alongside apparel like cashmere sweaters and silk dresses. Meghan Markle was spotted with the Classic Structured Tote at Wimbledon 2019, while Jessica Alba carried the System Tote in Los Angeles. Founded in 2011 by Karla Gallardo and Shilpa Shah in San Francisco.

 

Cuyana Paloma Natural Linen Tote Bag

Cuyana

Paloma Natural Linen Tote Bag – $658

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Cuyana Mini Paloma Black Shoulder Bag

Cuyana

Mini Paloma Black Shoulder Bag – $398

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

 

Global It-Girl Essentials

 

Brandon Blackwood

Brandon Blackwood, launched in 2015 by Jamaican-Chinese designer Brandon Blackwood in New York, has become a presence in luxury accessories, with bags spotted on Beyoncé at Paris Fashion Week, Kim Petras in New York’s SoHo, and Olivia Rodrigo in Los Angeles. The brand expanded into clothing with Studio by Brandon Blackwood in 2024. Its 10-year anniversary collection in 2025 and pop-up events in NYC underscore its growing influence in fashion.

 

Brandon Blackwood Mini Cara Yellow Nylon Bag

Brandon Blackwood

Mini Cara Yellow Nylon Bag – £175

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Brandon Blackwood Jordi Black Oiled Leather Shoulder Bag

Brandon Blackwood

Jordi Black Oiled Leather Shoulder Bag – £250

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Elleme

The Paris-based brand Elleme, founded in 2015 by Jingjing Fan, produces handbags like the Baozi, a dumpling-inspired bucket bag, the Raisin with its hand-stitched handle, and the Trousse, a boxy pencil-case style. Actress Léa Seydoux has been spotted with the Baozi in Paris’s Saint-Germain-des-Prés, while influencers have showcased the Raisin in New York’s SoHo.

 

Elleme Trousse Woven Cognac Leather Shoulder Bag

Elleme

Trousse Woven Cognac Leather Shoulder Bag – £390

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Elleme Raisin Natural Raffia & Taupe Leather Beach Bag

Elleme

Raisin Natural Raffia & Taupe Leather Beach Bag – £405

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Aesther Ekme

Launched in 2016 by Stephane Park in Paris with a nod to Copenhagen’s design ethos, Aesther Ekme produces leather handbags including the Demi Lune, Sac Large, and Ora Hobo, all crafted in Spain from calf leather or suede.

 

Aesther Ekme Cabas Supple XL Chestnut Grained Leather Shoulder Bag

Aesther Ekme

Cabas Supple XL Chestnut Grained Leather Shoulder Bag – €805

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Aesther Ekme Lagune Black Grain Leather Bowling Bag

Aesther Ekme

Lagune Black Grain Leather Bowling Bag – €615

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Hereu

Hereu, born in 2014 in Barcelona by José Luis Bartolomé and Albert Escribano, channels Mediterranean spirit into handbags like the intricately braided Bombon, the Cala Tote, and the compact Molta box bag, all handcrafted in Spain using locally sourced leather. Spanish actress Úrsula Corberó has been seen with the Bombon in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, while model Elsa Hosk carried the Cala Tote at Paris Fashion Week 2024. New collections emphasise raffia and mesh, securing its spot as a go-to for artisanal luxury.

 

Hereu Calella Squared Natural Raffia & Tan Leather Trim Tote Bag

Hereu

Calella Squared Natural Raffia & Tan Leather Trim Tote Bag – £490

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Hereu Arta Mini Tan Raffia Shoulder Bag

Hereu

Arta Mini Tan Raffia Shoulder Bag – £430

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

 

Wandler

Wandler has become a notable name in luxury accessories by offering handbags like the Hortensia Mini, Georgia, Ava, and Penelope. The brand’s bags have been spotted on model Kaia Gerber in Paris’s Le Marais and on influencers in Amsterdam’s Jordaan district. Wandler holds a strong position in the contemporary luxury market, driven by its designs.

 

Wandler Hortensia Mini Black Leather Top Handle Bag

Wandler

Hortensia Mini Black Leather Top Handle Bag – £720

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

Wandler Penelope Slouch Acai Crust Leather Shoulder Bag

Wandler

Penelope Slouch Acai Crust Leather Shoulder Bag – £450

Shop Now Clutched 600

 

 

*Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.

 

 

Styling Guide – How to wear them now

  • With Tailored Linen – Match a woven raffia tote from Hereu or Neous with a boxy linen blazer and flat leather sandals. Think low-effort, high-impact.
  • Summer in the City – Carry a structured Savette or DeMellier crossbody with a monochrome tank dress and low heels. Clean lines, no fuss.
  • Art School Cool – Pair a sculptural Objets Daso or Aesther Ekme bag with wide-leg trousers, a fitted tee, and chunky sunglasses. Add personality with colour-pop earrings.
  • Beach Day, But Elevated – Try a canvas or plant-based leather bag from Mashu or Cuyana with an oversized shirt, straw hat and gold accents. Natural fibres only.
  • Evening Edge – Let a Chylak mini or Brandon Blackwood piece do the talking with a satin slip dress and strappy mules. Understated but with intent.
  • The Off-Duty Uniform – Reach for JW Pei or Atomy Studios when denim’s involved — especially baggy jeans or a raw-hem skirt. Style with a ribbed vest and ballet flats.

 

 

Our seasonal handbag colour trends edit can help you find the perfect bag to suit your needs and personlity.

 

You may also like...

Popular Articles...