Welcome to find out what are the best leather bag brands in Europe! And no, they are absolutely NOT luxury fashion brands, because those don’t actually exist anymore. Oh, you think they do?
Well, I am very sorry to burst that bubble but I did spend thousands on a bag that was supposedly made from leather and from a supposed luxury brand only to find out that there was no luxury about any of it. Okay fine, the price tag and the actual shopping experience was more luxurious than going to a fast fashion store, but that was it.
The product itself was unfortunately nothing short of rubbish:
- the leather had been chemically tanned to the point where it in fact died
- “dead leather” can’t absorb colour so the bags these days are painted(!)
- the paint wears off after just a few wears = the “luxury” bag is quickly unwearable (despite luxury bags supposedly increasing in value as they get older… not anymore!)
- as such, the bag was never worth the insane amount of money that I paid for it. Money, which the brand refused to pay back = SCAM!
So, as I often do, I once again learned the hard way. Don’t be like me! Instead, check out these incredible leather bag brands that I will now reveal to you! I have (of course) shopped from each of these myself, and can thus honestly recommend them.
TOP5 Best Leather Bag Brands in Europe
As you can gather from the previous, I know what I’m talking about when it comes to leather goods. And in fact not only because I fell for the scam of “luxury brands” and learned from it. But also because I have worked with leather, and know what proper leather feels like.
I’ve had the privilege to take part in a bag-making workshop where I got to make my own bag. It was such a wholesome but also an educational opportunity, which has helped me make very good shopping decisions in general. It also taught me that a high quality leather bag is a good investment.
I definitely have a sweet spot for leather bags, and have managed to accumulate quite a collection of some truly amazing pieces. And now I’d like to share with you the best leather bag brands from Europe, that you’ve probably never heard of. These brands encapsulate the true meaning of luxury:
1. Stella Soomlais — Highest craftsmanship & quality
Stella Soomlais is absolutely my number for this Best leather bag brands list! It is a leather studio situated in the Telliskivi district in Tallinn, Estonia. They create very high quality leather bags of all sorts in the small studio attached to the store. Here you can find backpacks, shoulder bags, crossover bags, toiletry bags, wallets, card holders, passport covers, etc.
The brand only uses leftover animal hides from the European meat industry that are then veggie tanned into usable leather. As veggie tanned, their leather does absorb colour, and the colour selection is one of the things that got me falling in love with their products. In fact, I’ve got the Nordic Chameleon bag from them in 2 colours: dark turquoise and a vivid fuchsia.
You can see the craftsmanship in their simple and functional designs, and what’s best, proper leather really does look better with age! Unlike the “luxury” brands’ bags, these bags were actually made to be worn. My bags have been scratched and dented, but because the leather is ‘healthy’, it heals and renews. Like our skin!
Stella Soomlais is also a forerunner in sustainability in the industry:
- they rent bags
- you can get your bags fixed in case they sustain damage
- and they buy your bag back if you decide you no longer want to wear it to resell or reuse the material.
2. Mannelli — Highest luxury quality with a history to match it
When you visit Florence you will, of course, cross the Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge). As you do, keep your eye out for a shop that stands out from all the jewellery establishments. At the foot of the bridge on the Palazzo Pitti side you’ll find a tiny store selling leather goods and I’m telling you, it’s worth checking out!
Firenze is known as the leather capital of Italy but Mannelli stands out from the crowd. It’s the only brand in the city that is allowed to sell other products but jewellery on the historic bridge. And no wonder because their beautiful bags are some of the highest quality stuff-carriers I’ve ever come across.
The store sells a selection of local artisans’ creations and also offers their own collection. Check out especially the shelf hosting Boldrini bags: the most intricate designs that you won’t find anywhere else!
My purchase (photo above) isn’t just any leather bag: it’s made out of saddle leather. Yes, the same kind of leather that is used to make horse saddles. That’s tough leather! And that particular colour… it resembles chocolate so much I want to eat it!
Another remarkable thing about Mannelli is that it’s a family brand. Founded in 1955 the store was damaged but survived the Florence flood and is currently employing the third generation of the Mannelli family. I actually purchased the gorgeous bag that you see in the photo above from the brand’s founder’s grandson. I don’t know about you but I think that’s pretty cool!
3. Dajana Rodriguez — Playful yet durable leather designs
Dajana Rodriguez is one of the most rewarded fashion designers from Slovakia, a country I used to live in and have infinite love for. Her bags are certainly among the best leather bag brands on the continent, and they may be the prettiest. This brand came to my knowledge while living in Bratislava: the store is located right opposite to what used to be my favourite café.
And I couldn’t not notice the bags displayed in the window because they were stitched with the most beautiful patterns. The bags themselves were beautiful classic designs so the vibrant patterns brought that little bit of extra into the mix that I’m always looking for.
I myself opted for an un-stitched version of the Ema bag: white with a burgundy flap. It’s been one of my most worn bags for years – it’s a space miracle! – but it’s still in pristine condition: testament of the high quality and craftsmanship. I’ve got my eye set on a stitched piece next and the collections I’m in love with are Lady D, Orion and Contessa.
4. Minelli — French elegance and high quality
Now we meet a brand from one of the most classically fashionable countries: France. Minelli focuses on high quality leather goods, like bags and shoes, and the brand was founded already in 1973 in Paris.
Unlike its Nordic cousins introduced in this best leather bag brands list, Minelli is not a sustainability-focused brand. But this doesn’t mean its products wouldn’t be high quality!
I bought my first Minelli – a vivid cobalt blue satchel made from pliant, soft-like-suede leather – already in 2013. I don’t wear it on a daily basis, not even weekly, but in over 10 years it’s seen plenty of wear. Which you could never tell by looking at it! It still looks like new.
And knowing the high quality, when the time came to buy an everyday bag, Minelli was my go-to option. So, now I also have a basic black handbag made out of tougher calfskin. This bag has already seen some travels and deemed its place on my shelf as one of those bags I can wear whenever, wherever because I can count on the quality.
5. PIHKA Collection — Nordic simplicity and high quality
Last but certainly not least on this list we have a beautiful brand from Finland: PIHKA collection. This brand sources its leather from the meat industries of Sweden and Denmark and uses only veggie tanned leather. They used to make their bags in the most delicious colours but have since reverted to a more classic (IMO plain) colour scheme.
Despite their high regard for sustainability and ecological production, PIHKA’s bags don’t cost an arm and a leg. They are priced as high quality leather bags should because such bags should only be bought to be worn for decades.
I have multiple PIHKA bags myself: a fiery red Armi crossbody (no longer in stock), a brown Carta I made myself, and a burgundy small crossover bag. But my ultimate number 1 bag from them is the Treffen Weekend tote bag.
- It is enormous, so I use it as my hand luggage when traveling.
- It’s got a big pocket both on the inside and the outside.
- The wide straps are sturdy and can manage over 15kg of luggage easily (I know, airlines don’t allow it, but I fly with airlines that don’t check ;D).
- It is the highest quality leather: it’s travelled with me for years, been tossed, thrown, scratched and bumped but it’s still in pristine condition.
If you’re looking for the highest quality leather bags that can handle some rough handling, do yourself a favour and check out PIHKA collection!
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between vegetable-tanned and chemically-tanned leather?
A: Vegetable-tanned leather is made using natural tannins extracted from plants. This method is eco-friendly and results in a more rigid, durable leather that ages beautifully and develops a rich patina over time. Chemically-tanned leather, commonly known as chrome-tanned leather, uses chemicals for tanning, making it softer and more pliable. This process is quicker and less expensive, but it also harms the environment through pollution and toxic chemicals. While it is easier to maintain and more water-resistant, chemically tanned leather may not age as gracefully as vegetable-tanned leather.
Q: What is the difference between full-grain and top-grain leather?
A: Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather, made from the top layer of the hide, which retains its natural grain and markings. It’s known for its durability and ability to develop a unique patina over time. Top-grain leather is slightly sanded to remove imperfections, providing a smoother finish but at the cost of some durability. While both types are high quality, full-grain leather is generally considered the superior choice.
Q: How do I know if a leather bag is of high quality?
A: To assess the quality of a leather bag, check:
- Material: Look for full-grain or top-grain leather. Avoid items labeled as “genuine leather,” as these can be inferior.
- Craftsmanship: Inspect stitching for evenness and lack of loose threads. High-quality bags often have hand-finished edges.
- Hardware: Quality brass or sturdy metal hardware indicates durability. Zippers should slide smoothly without resistance.
- Lining and Design: Linings made from durable fabric (not flimsy materials) reflect good craftsmanship.
Q: How should I care for and maintain my leather bag?
A: Proper care will prolong the life of your leather bag, so consider the following actions:
- Cleaning: Wipe with a damp cloth; avoid soaking. For stains, consider professional cleaning.
- Conditioning: Use leather conditioner periodically to maintain suppleness.
- Storage: Fill with bubble wrap to maintain shape and store in a dust cover, avoiding plastic which can trap moisture.
Q: Are leather bags worth the investment?
A: Absolutely, high-quality leather bags are worth the investment for several reasons:
- Durability: Quality leather can last for decades if cared for properly.
- Aesthetic: Leather develops a unique character over time, adding to its charm.
- Resale Value: Well-maintained leather bags can retain a significant portion of their value.
- Versatility: They often complement a wide range of styles and occasions, from formal to casual.
