Things I'm Not Buying(but want to) #2
Leather Bags
Hello!
I’ve been asked to help a mate find a leather bag for everyday work life.
Simple ask. Hard execution.
Leather bags are, 96% of the time, designed for women.
The ones that are made for men often look like they’re stuck in the late 90s, and not in a good way. Too corporate. Too stiff. Too “I work in sales.”
The brief was reasonable.
He’s Australian-based. And wants to spend around $400(I didn’t confirm a currency), with some flexibility for the right bag.
The reality is less reasonable.
Currency conversion alone starts doing damage pretty quickly but I do know some Aussie brands, up their prices for US people.
Some of these are well outside the brief, but I’ve included them anyway for context and inspiration.
The Best Overall Option (If You Can Get One)
1. Mutimer Leather Carry-All Everyday Tote
This is the best all-round option, especially for someone in Australia.
Naturally, it’s sold out.
I like the brand. I like the subtle magnet. I love the shape.
It works for the office, then somehow still feels right for after-work drinks that turn into a Friday night on a Prahran dance floor, gin and pineapples in hand.
Recommendation: DM the brand on Instagram.
There’s always one sitting around somewhere.
For the price point and everything I’ve heard about the quality, this is your guy.
Strong, No-Nonsense Totes
2. Linden Is Enough Soft Leather Maxi Tote
These guys spend serious money on Meta ads. I see them constantly.
Thankfully, it looks like the product actually holds up.
No nonsense. Built to be thrashed.
Love the shape and what looks like a good balance between sturdiness and softness.
A more expensive, slightly classier cousin is this Frank Clegg option:
https://frankcleggleatherworks.com/signature-working-tote-black-unlined.html
Still, I prefer the Linden. Better price, less precious.
Keeping it local.
My mate actually sent me a different bag from ATKM, but I think this version might be the winner.
Looks like it’s ready to go into battle and will still be standing after your fifth pint.
Bonus points for being a Fitzroy brand.
Would fit right in at The Napier.
(Ignore it’s only shot on females on their website)
Overseas Options Worth Considering
4. Ronning Everyday Leather Bag
London Calling…
Just discovered this brand recently.
I like what they’re about and the product looks solid.
The shoulder strap is a nice touch and works with or without it.
Worth a look.
For the Traditional Tote Lovers
If you like a classic tote, this could be the one.
I’m not personally a big Y-3 guy, but it is a design-led sub brand of the three stripes, so I can’t hate on it.
6. Tonywack Embossed Leather Tote
Similar price to the Y-3, but more refined.
They’ve done a really good job making thin straps that don’t feel too feminine.
Out of the Price Range (But Worth Mentioning)
Porter James Leather Crescent Bag
More crossbody than tote.
Big fan of Porter James. Funny story: I met a guy at CDMX airport wearing their pants. I noticed the tag and ended up chatting next to him while Chantelle was doing a random security check, and I could see her from afar, admiring his curls. Honestly, we both were.
The bag is great. Definitely outside the brief.
European leather, soft shape, moulds nicely to the body.
Less classic, but very good. Worth considering if want to change it up.
Strong, well-made, Japanese leather.
Not sure Buck Mason is easily accessible in Australia, so it might be ruled out.
I might still pop into the Abbott Kinney store to check it out.
Definitely out of range, but probably my favourite of the bunch.
Toby always get it right, with Monphell. He’s got an incredible eye.
Most original shape here and I’d bet it ages beautifully.
Knowing him, the leather is top tier too.
If You Want to Get Creative
There’s also a strong case for Etsy.
If you find a shape you like, I’d have zero concerns going handmade with no branding.
Just make sure the straps are right.
Value for money, especially in Australia, this might be the smartest route.
Put together a brief, dimensions, strap width, pocket preferences, and you essentially end up with a one-of-one.
This might be me in a few months.
Extra Credit
If you enjoy a second-hand hunt, try tracking down the Our Legacy x Stussy leather tote.
Does everything right.
Two brands I love.
Check Grailed, eBay, The RealReal or StockX.
Anyway, thanks for reading the second edition of Things I’m Not Buying (But Want To).
Also more importantly, Happy birthday to my Mum.
You’re probably the only person who reads every word. I love you(not just because you read every word but it does help). Thanks for being you.
And to anyone who made it this far, thanks for your time as always.
Hayden