Fallen for The Row? 13 Elegant Handbags That Give Big Margaux Energy

It’s been an exciting time in the world of investment bags recently, as a new icon has entered the arena: the Margaux. Created by super-luxe minimalist brand The Row, the bag embodies the designer's aesthetic of logoless pieces that focus on quality and construction over all else. The Margaux excels in timelessness, and with an understated silhouette, refined lines and a range of sizes and colourways, the bag is a clear example of the pure luxury for which The Row has become known.

Woman in brown blazer and margaux bag

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Naturally, as soon as it was first showcased, the bag dubbed "the new Birkin" flew, and soon became harder to track down than its decades-old predecessor. Without the bold branding of other designer bags, the Margaux tends to feature on the arms of those in the know (as well as the Pinterest boards of many). But because of its price—which can range from £3700 to over £8000—along with fast-moving stock levels, this bag can be particularly elusive.

Woman carries the Ferragamo hug bag

Amy Julliette Lefévre carries the Ferragamo Hug Bag (£2295)

(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

Thankfully, I’m an expert in all things handbags. Looking for a sculptural piece for your next wedding abroad? I’ve got you. Need a new work tote? Easy. So, finding bags that embody the feeling of the Margaux in refinement and craft but stand on their own for impeccable design is all in a (very enjoyable) day's work for this editor.

Marina wears a beige oversized blazer, navy trousers, white T-Shirt and burgundy handbag

Marina Torres carries the Bottega Veneta Mini Arco Tote (£2420)

(Image credit: @marina_torres)

Now, we're not looking for copies of the Margaux. We're looking for handbags that exude the same quiet-luxury feel and understated polish that The Row has encompassed. I'm focusing on perennial designs, useful tote shapes, refined construction and ease of wear—essentially, elegance and effortlessness together in harmony. It's a big ask, but after an extensive search I've found 13 handbags that fit this very specific mould, and I've rounded them up for you below.

Keep scrolling to explore the bags that give big Margaux energy, and of course, the bag itself.

SHOP THE ROW'S MARGAUX BAG:

SHOP MARGAUX ALTERNATIVES THAT ARE JUST AS LUXE:

1. The Prada Large Tote

2. The Ferragamo Hug

3. The Anya Hindmarch Wilson

4. The Saint Laurent Sac du Jour Duffle

5. The Tom Ford Audrey

6. The Métier Market

7. The Gucci Large Tote

8. The Khaite Maeve

9. The Bottega Veneta Arco

10. The Victoria Beckham V

11. The Mulberry Bayswater

12. DeMellier New York Tote

13. The Toteme T-Lock

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Florrie Alexander
Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.