If Mansur Gavriel's astronomic rise to popularity is any indication, people are looking for something more in handbags - options that aren't attached to major fashion houses, and yet deserve some major attention. It's still less than a quarter into 2016 and there's already a new flock of accessory designers to love. From a cult-favorite fragrance line's new leather goods to the designer behind the Mulberry Bayswater starting anew, here are eight new handbag brands to watch out for.
• Paula Cademartori
Who says a bag needs to be neutral to be taken seriously? Ardent in keeping her line solely made in Italy, Brazilian-born designer Paula Cademartori launched her vibrant namesake in 2010 after studying industrial design and a stint at Versace's atelier. Following a few seasons of minimalism, Cademartori's handbags are a breath of fresh, technicolor air. Spotted on style stars Anna Dello Russo and Olivia Palermo, the whimsical colorways and playful patterns instantly upgrade up a pair of jeans a tee, but are so expertly made they could also be future heirlooms.
• Hunting Season
Hunting Season launched about a decade ago, in 2006, but it is just beginning to become popular, having recently been picked up by the well-curated online shopping site, ModaOperandi.com. Founded by Danielle Corona, who worked as an accessories designer at Valentino and VBH, Hunting Season updates classic shapes in buttery leather and exotic skins. Her laid-back luxe is captured perfectly in her black-and-white lizard striped drawstring bag. Corona's ridiculously covetable handbags is sure to join the ranks of exotic designers like Nancy Gonzalez in no time.
• Boyy
Designers Jesse Dorsey and Wannasiri Kongman joined forces in 2004 to create BOYY, a line of luxury goods that will soon be seen everywhere. Their distinctive style and signature accents (a chic oversized belt) take a refreshing spin on carryalls and cross-bodies. Supple leather and sleek design captures a downtown cool and sophistication, but also completely approachable. This bag will soon be seen in any neighborhood of New York - on the crook of an UES elbow, toted down the Bowery, or worn in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
• PB 0110
If anyone is going to dethrone Mansur Gavriel as the minimalist handbag line, it is Philipp Bree and his collection of leather goods, PB 0110. With the intention of his bags becoming loved objects that bear the signs of daily life (worn out creases, patinated brass, etc.), PB 0110's linear designs in richly tanned leathers are meant to grow old with its owner. Many are guilty of closeting designer bags in fear of minor scratches, so Bree's philosophy of eventual wear and tear is immensely appealing. It also helps that every one of his schoolboy-inspired designs goes with everything.
(www.elle.com)