Neharika ManjaniPublished on Oct 17, 20228 brands serving up accessible ‘It’ bagsWe put together a list of labels from around the globe that offer affordable yet unique pieces.Of late, the bags acquiring cult status don’t necessarily carry hefty price tags–here’s where you can find themIf you spend a small amount of time studying the many definitions that show up when you run a quick search for “It bags,” you’ll find that almost all of them feature the words “expensive” or “high-priced”. In the past, the kind of bags which sat comfortably in this category were guaranteed to set you back by a few thousand dollars at the very least. However, this is no longer always the case. Lately, we’ve been witnessing the rise and rise of bags which have all the ingredients of a cult-favourite accessory–great design, superior quality and a sizeable fan following–but their price tags aren’t quite as hefty. Wondering where you can find them? We draw up a list of eight brands from across the globe that serve up ‘It’ bags which are more accessible than their predecessors but work just as well at upping the cool quotient of your closet. MlouyeMlouye’s founder and creative director Meb Rure draws from her career as an industrial designer to create flexible bags that have a futuristic look-and-feel. Other than their ability to almost instantly lift any outfit, the Istanbul-based brand’s designs are loved for two key reasons: Firstly, they can multitask–with a few simple adjustments, a top-handle bag can be turned into a backpack, or a clutch can be converted into a convenient crossbody and secondly, many of them, although sleek or small in size, come with compartments that can accommodate most of your everyday essentials with ease. Mlouye.comATP Atelier Influencer-loved brand ATP Atelier combines the simplicity of Scandinavian design with the richness of Italian craftsmanship to create easy-to-match, long-lasting bags which are far from boring. Think totes with chain straps, shoulder bags with curvy flaps and supple leather pouches finished with feathers. For those who are overwhelmed with the options available, the versatile “Massa” bag–it’s described as a style that “fits a lunchbox but also loves going out”–is a solid starting point. Atpatelier.comAomidori Shimai If you’re on the hunt for bags that are small yet impactful, try Aomidori Shimai. The less-than-year-old brand, founded by New Delhi-based duo Aastha Chawla and Saanya Chawla, is making waves on Instagram with a tiny, tote-like silhouette that’s crafted using rich, jewel-toned velvet and crystal beads. Count on these styles to add extra sparkle to your after-hours look or even elevate the simplest separates. Aomidorishimai.comPolèneMany might recall the sculptural, sage green bucket bag that Emily Cooper (played by actor Lily Collins) carried in the second season of television show Emily in Paris. The much-talked-about accessory comes courtesy of Polène. The French brand, founded by three siblings, has amassed quite the following for its fuss-free bags that are soft yet shapely–the trio deftly incorporates folds in their designs to highlight the malleability of leather–and easy to carry every day. Polene-paris.comAhikozaAhikoza’s bold bags, which made their debut in India earlier this year, are a hit both on screen and in real life–they’ve made appearances in popular television series Dynasty and on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival. Out of the Indonesian brand’s many statement-making styles, the bucket bags and geometric clutches–especially those in candy colours–are firm favourites among celebrities across the world. Ahikoza.comPipatcharaPipatchara, a brand from Thailand, is known for its cool spin on leather. A quick scroll through the website reveals a varied range of bags–there are styles both structured and slouchy–with macramé knots handmade by a small group of female artisans from villages in the Mae Hong Son province. For risk-takers, the “Amu” bag–a boxy silhouette that looks best in statement shades and with a generous helping of shine–is highly recommended. Pipatchara.comAgneelAgneel is a name that’s becoming increasingly familiar to the street-style set and those who live by the “less is more” philosophy. Carefully crafted at family-run workshops in Izmir and Florence, the Berlin-born brand’s understated bags are characterised by timeless shapes, earthy colours, a barely-there logo and an overall aversion to excess. What makes the designs even cooler is the fact that they are named after women and have an all-women team behind them. Agneel.comDemellierEveryone from Kate Middleton to Irina Shayk loves Demellier’s polished, practical bags. The British brand, founded by Barcelona-born London-based designer Mireia Lluisa-Lindh, has many sought-after styles including the “The Vancouver”–a crossbody bag that currently comes in 12 colours and has an easy-to-identify, chunky gold clasp. Looking for something bigger? Try the all-encompassing, architectural tote which is aptly named “The New York”. Demellierlondon.comAlso Read: 10 homegrown bag brands you need to know about nowAlso Read: 12 homegrown shoe brands that will keep your feet happyAlso Read: 12 festive wear labels to shop from this Diwali Read Next Read the Next Article