When a luxury brand does get their customers’ needs well, they tend to have on hand, a distinguishable handbag that would instantly be recognisable on the street. This in turn, making the bags achieving an iconic status. Take Alaïa for an example, with their east-west handbag that’s been replicated by other brands in the market (like the gorgeous woven Bottega Veneta). There’s also Dior’s spacious book tote, with all of its beautiful embroidery which you could personalise with your name as well.
This coveted “it bag” becomes a powerful symbol of the brand’s identity, driving desire and commanding premium prices. Its unique design and often limited availability solidify its place as a must-have fashion statement.
I’ve seen some of these dupes spilling into the market and they look equally as beautiful.
Shop some of these curated styles I’ve picked up:
- JW Pei Solenne East-West Shoulder Bag, S$181.90
- Marge Sherwood Soft Boston Bag, now S$513.40
- Longchamp Le Pliage Xtra S
- Le Tanneur Bowling Bag, S$640
- DeMellier New York suede shoulder bag, S$630
- Charles & Keith Hazel Bow Elongated Trapeze Bag, S$85.90
- Freja New York Mini Chrystie Bag, S$395.47
- JW Pei Nova Shoulder Bag, S$159
- Retrofete Ruth Large Shoulder Bag, now S$320.08, before S$708.44
The east-west handbags to shop now:
1. JW Pei Solenne East-West Shoulder Bag, S$181.90
Defined by its elongated rectangular silhouette and sculpted structure, this handbag is an exercise in quiet precision. Rendered in sleek black vegan material, it carries its identity lightly, with subtle logo detailing on the front as the only flourish. Double top handles lend a poised, polished carry, while the flap closure opens to a generous interior made for the essentials of the day. Clean lines and a pared-back finish make it a contemporary staple that moves easily from the office to evening.
2. Marge Sherwood Soft Boston Bag, now S$513.40
Crafted in soft suede with a smooth textile lining, this bag pairs effortless style with everyday function. A dual top zipper keeps your essentials secure in one roomy main compartment, while interior slip and zipper pockets keep the small things organized. Dual shoulder straps make it easy to carry from morning coffee to evening plans.
3. Longchamp Le Pliage Xtra S
Le Pliage Xtra captures the essence of the line in a modern, functional design. Its east-west silhouette is made to hold your everyday essentials with elegance. Featuring elongated handles, it can be worn on the shoulder or carried by hand, offering versatile styling. Crafted from cowhide leather, this style blends refinement, practicality, and a contemporary spirit.
4. Le Tanneur Bowling Bag, S$640
Bowling bag with Le Tanneur branding and 100% cotton microfibre lining. Can be carried by hand, worn over the shoulder or across the body thanks to its adjustable and detachable crossbody strap.
5. DeMellier New York suede shoulder bag, S$630
The brand DeMellier focuses on modern elegance to design exceptionally crafted and sophisticated accessories. Made in Spain from supple suede, the New York shoulder bag features an elongated silhouette, practical top handles, and a zipped top.
6. Charles & Keith Hazel Bow Elongated Trapeze Bag, S$85.90
East-west bags continue to trend, and this shoulder bag in noir may be your new go-to carrier. Clip on your favourite bag charms to add visual interest to the minimalist design. Little bows adorn the sides of this shoulder bag for the perfect finishing touch.
7. Freja New York Mini Chrystie Bag, S$395.47
Crafted in sleek faux leather with a soft textile lining, this bag blends clean style with everyday ease. A foldover top with dual magnetic button closures keeps your belongings secure, opening to one spacious main compartment. Dual interior slip pockets keep smaller essentials in easy reach, while dual shoulder straps with a strap clip offer a comfortable, secure carry wherever the day takes you.
8. JW Pei Nova Shoulder Bag, S$159
Finished with polished gold hardware, this compact bag adds a refined touch to any look. Carry it by hand or on the shoulder with its fixed, non-adjustable strap, designed for a clean, streamlined silhouette. A zippered pocket keeps your essentials secure, and the interior comfortably fits an iPhone 15 Pro Max or any smaller phone, making it the perfect companion for days when you want to travel light.
9. Retrofete Ruth Large Shoulder Bag, now S$214.53, before S$708.44
Crafted in snake-embossed leather with a smooth satin lining, this bag brings a bold texture to a polished silhouette. The structured top secures with dual magnetic button closures and opens to one main compartment, where interior zipper and slip pockets keep your essentials organized. Silver-tone hardware accents the front, while a detachable leather shoulder strap draped with a silver-tone herringbone chain adds a striking finishing touch. Made in China.
