Of All the Chic Bags Out There, DeMellier’s New York Tote Is the One I Want

I know I'm a fashion editor and some might consider what I'm about to say sacrilegious but, personally speaking, I'm not all that into high-end designer bags. Of course, I'd never kick a Chanel out of bed, nor refuse the gift of a Lady Dior point blank; I would simply rather spend my money on something else. What I do advocate for, however, are affordable luxury bags. Of course, what constitutes as "affordable" to one person will vary greatly to another, and I can possibly determine what that will mean to you specifically but, for argument's sake, let's agree on £500 or less. It's still a significant amount of money, no doubt about it, but it is a figure I'd be prepared to save for should the right handbag come along. Cue DeMellier's New York tote bag, which I actually spotted the very stylish Katie Holmes carrying just days ago.
Katie Holmes was recently spotted with DeMellier's New York tote bag in the mocha suede colourway.
London-based brand DeMellier has become one of the most talked about bag brands this year, and it's not hard to see why. Leaning heavily on classicism and with a focus on producing handbags that are genuinely timeless, they've quickly become a fashion-person favourite. And it's DeMellier New York tote bag that seems to be the brand's breakout and most coveted style.
The New York collection compromises of four styles; a cute bucket bag in standard and large, and two sizes of its tote—a midi and a standard. Featuring comfortable tubular handles that nestle in crook of your arm, triangular folds to either side to give it an unmistakeable shape, and premium-looking metal hardware and feet to set it upon, the brand says its the perfect everyday bag—which it is!—but that doesn't detract from its special feel.
The DeMellier Midi New York tote bag currently comes in a selection of six elegant colours, a selection of versatile neutrals including black, brown, tan, cream and taupe, and retails for £445. The larger New York tote is between £495 and £545 and you can choose from eight impeccable shades.
I've been considering investing in DeMellier New York tote bag for a while now—the midi being the size I've set my sights on. Scroll on to see and shop DeMellier's New York tote bags in every colour (I'm going for the brown). Then continue on to browse the bucket and crossbody styles, too.
Shop DeMellier's The Midi New York Tote Bag
Shop DeMellier's The New York Tote Bag In Other Sizes:
Shop DeMellier's The New York Bucket Bag
I'm a big fan of a bucket bag for their Mary Poppins-like ability to hold more than you'd expect.
Shop DeMellier's The Large New York Bucket Bag
The long strap offers both shoulder and crossbody styling options.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s Deputy Editor and has over fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.
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