12 made-in-Canada handbags that you can wear every day
Stylish, locally-made holdalls for your daily treasures
If you're in the market for a new, everyday bag for fall, here are the four key trends to know, and where to find them while supporting Canadian designers! All of these brands are proudly based in Canada, the bags are locally designed and handcrafted, and definitely worth the investment. Whether you're looking for a vegan-friendly style, a slouchy holdall made with upcycled vintage leather, or a sleek European-leather investment piece, now's a great time for that handbag update.
The shopper
Chic, leather takes on the classic shopping tote reigned for fall/winter 2018 at Balenciaga, Christian Dior and Valentino, and for good reason. A well-made shopper will fit everything from your laptop to your #zerowaste lunch kit, yet doesn't take up a lot of room and is easy to carry on your commute. Plus, because they're usually simpler to construct, tote bags are generally a little more affordable than a more embellished or structured bag from the same brand.
Atwater Outlaw Leather, $395, lowellmtl.ca
To 83 Tote with Large Pockets, $295, m0851.com
Trans Canada French Tote Tribe, $238, roots.com
Atrium in Black, $850, partoem.ca
The bucket
Whether you go big, or very small, there are plenty of whimsical and stylish takes on the bucket bag out there. We loved the drawstring versions at Chloé and Fendi, but keep in mind that going slightly bigger might be better for everyday use. There's nothing worse than a purse that won't comfortably fit your oversized phone and your continental wallet.
Medium Dark Chocolate Bucket Bag, $475, pinktartan.ca
Bryony Bucket Bag, $285, braveleather.com
The slouchy holdall
Soft, less structured handbags that look almost like folded pillows on the runway caught our eye at Maison Margiela and Marni. There's usually a handle and a zip closure hidden somewhere in there, but we love that these bags look their best when held quite close.
Hobo, $295, erintempleton.com
BR 90 Soft Carry-All, $420, m0851.com
The top-handle bag
The classic, boxy handbags shown at Louis Vuitton, Prada and Salvatore Ferragamo would look chic with most any outfit. Get your own bag in a bright, eye-catching colour for fall and you'll wear it for years to come. Look for understated hardware, a flat bottom that will sit well, and a well-crafted leather handle that will be comfortable to hold, and that will only look better with age.
Vanda Mini, $475, opellecanada.com
Katie Large Shoulder Bag, $420, eleventhirtyshop.com
Wet Wax Pleated Purse, $480, hoibo.com
Arabella, $275, cantintraditions.com
Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.