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 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. Having just celebrated its ten-year mark, Strathberry is establishing itself in the UK and overseas markets and becoming renowned for its refined styles, understated elegance and architectural shaping.
Founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife duo Leanne and Guy Hundleby, Strathberry is predominantly a leather-goods brand that epitomises the essence of heritage and heirloom. With each style featuring its distinguishable T-bar closure, foiled Strathberry embossed emblem and further comprising hand-painted piping, the attention to detail is inspired. Its factory also oversees the production of Loewe’s leather goods, so they’re in good company!
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 acquirements—the pieces that will live alongside us, through our lifetime, retain beauty and may even be passed through generations. Whilst many associate the coined term “quiet luxury” with luxury fashion houses, I best attribute it to brands like Strathberry, where quality precedes and the USP is providing customers with lifetime pieces and an imitable experience to boot.
The Crescent Satchel in the latest colourways.
Favoured by the likes of Megan Markle and Sarah Jessica Parker, the brand amassed an ever-extending friends list of tastemakers who are frequently wearing its styles. Strathberry also has the royal stamp of approval from Catherine, Princess of Wales, who is often pictured wearing Strathberry on her royal duties. Consider us convinced!
Plus, with prices in the main collection ranging from £155 (for pocket-sized leather goods) to £625 (for sizeable totes), you can rest assured there’s something for everyone. Intrigued? Scroll on continue to see and shop some of my favourite Strathberry handbags. Enjoy!
I adore the Multrees Hobo bag and the newest deep cocoa colourway boasts a refined look that’s reminiscent of bags three times its price point. Look closely for the contrast stitching, which adds a further suave appeal.
The plush Lana Pouch is one of Strathberry’s newer styles. Many of Strathberry’s styles are structural, though the Lana Osette pouch is a softened leather with a buttery hue to match. Pair this mini pouch with a cocoa-hued dress!
Convertibility is a prevalent theme in Strathberry’s bags. The Mosaic style comprises elements that make it suitable for day and evening wear. Clasp the top handle and wear it like so, or add the crossbody strap for a hands-free experience. I’ve been layering this bag over woollen coats this winter.
The Stylist is a slim, compact silhouette that can be worn one of two ways. Featuring a barely there link chain and discreet hooks, you can don this envelope style as a grasp clutch or wallet on a chain.
Canvas styles always boast a vintage lilt, therefore the printed monogramming is a welcomed addition to the Lana Osette family. Complete with a navy trim and mini gold t-bar, the Strathberry theme continues in this supple design.
The crescent satchel bag is said to be the city dwellers’ luxury companion. It’s roomy enough for daily essentials and then some. This style features an arched version of Strathberry’s iconic gold bar to mimic the curvature of the design.
There’s an undeniable luxe appeal about a gold chain and it complements the midnight black outer of the East West Design. The boxy silhouette is compact and therefore well-suited for eveningwear.
This olive hue is new to the already-established Box Crescent family. The lizard-embossed style bears a resemblance to vintage bags but the vivid colourway adds a modern feel.
The Lana Osette also comes in this cashmere fabrication with deep brown trimming. If you’re missing totes comprising natural fabrications, try this directional piece for the winter.
Your return to the office bag never looked so chic. This is a slouched rectangular style with a widened handle, for ease of wear. The marrying of the double ring detailing and contrast stitching is yet another sleek feature. Every detail is intentional, no matter how quiet.
Summer may feel like a ways away but I don’t tend to ascribe to seasonal purchases, especially when I’m buying pieces forever. Hardened raffia makes for the best summer accessory and the addition of the tanned leather trim and matching handle lends it a luxe appeal. The boxy silhouette has become a highly sought-after style for a few years and I have no doubt doubt that it will remain in demand.
Strathberry’s East/West Omni bears an elongated rectangular silhouette with discreet ecru stitching around the perimeter. The fine link chain can be tucked into the main body of the bag to offer a daintier appeal.
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