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.
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.
Amy Julliette Lefévre carries the Ferragamo Hug Bag (£2295)
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 Torres carries the Bottega Veneta Mini Arco Tote (£2420)
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:
The 17 is the largest silhouette, ideal for over-packers or those who love an oversized shape.
With smooth leather, simple buckled sides and the absence of bells and whistles, this will be just as coveted in a decade as it is now.
The smallest size is ideal for every day and is sure to add instant polish to any ensemble.
SHOP MARGAUX ALTERNATIVES THAT ARE JUST AS LUXE:
1. The Prada Large Tote
It should come as no surprise that Prada has also perfected the minimalist handbag. Whilst its runway collections may be bold, the accessories continue to channel an understated elegance. Think the Cleo or the Galleria, featuring smooth lines, impeccable leathers and expert construction, and the large leather tote is no exception. With a roomy shape, easy tote handles and simple buckle detailing on the sides, this is a bag that could easily give the Margaux a run for its money.
2. The Ferragamo Hug
An icon in its own right, the Hug handbag is a recent addition to Ferragamo's impressive accessories collection. Starting as a footwear brand, Ferragamo has made a name for itself in excellent accessories, bringing an elevated appeal to each piece. The Hug makes for the ideal tote, be it for work or everyday, with a roomy interior and sweet side closures that are both unexpected and understated. With a small brand logo, the construction and quality leather are the most eye-catching details on this bag.
3. The Anya Hindmarch Wilson
Anya Hindmarch may be known for the fantastical, but the Wilson proves that the brand is able to whisper just as well as it shouts. The outer shell is free of logos, allowing the design details to showcase just how well-made the bag really is. Inside, you'll find a zipped inner section to keep your valuables safe, alongside plenty of room for a laptop, diary and more. Carry in the crook of your arm or comfortably wear on the shoulder.
4. The Saint Laurent Sac du Jour Duffle
With a plethora of bags that feature on every fashion person's wish list, I naturally had to look to Saint Laurent's collection, and am so pleased I did. The Sac du Jour is exactly that; an ideal everyday bag with a no-nonsense feel. You'll find smooth leather, gold accent hardware and two compartments separated by a zipped pocket. The only hint of branding can be found on the Saint Laurent foil logo, as well as the padlock on the zips. Plus, the style comes with a removable longer strap for various ways to wear.
5. The Tom Ford Audrey
With a serious attention to detail, bags like the Whitney and Tara have shown that Tom Ford is looking to understated iconography, with various styles having their own iconic hardware. Here, the Audrey takes an even subtler approach, with a simple belted closure and foil branding to complete the roomy tote.
6. The Métier Market
Born in London and handcrafted in Italy, Métier is all about beautiful, well-made leather goods. Spacious without looking bulky, the Market Weekend tote is the ideal size for a treasured companion. There's a particular balance of a structured and slouchy silhouette that both this and the Margaux have perfected.
7. The Gucci Large Tote
Gucci knows all about an It bag; from the Dionysus to the Marmont and the Jackie, the list goes on. As such, the fashion house has channelled excellence in creating this large tote, with the same closure as the beloved Jackie, moving away from the classic horse-bit for an in-the-know detail. Despite the instantly recognisable GG Supreme canvas, the brand has let the leather finish take all the attention here, with a minimalist design that celebrates craftspersonship over iconography.
8. The Khaite Maeve
Khaite's aesthetic is all about simple but highly impactful fashion. Refinement is exactly what the brand strives for, putting the emphasis on sleek design and high-quality fabrics. The Maeve bag is a perfect example of this, with its spacious interior, minimalist concept and subtle branding all making for yet another forever piece from Khaite.
9. The Bottega Veneta Arco
Even without logos and branding, each of Bottega's pieces is instantly identifiable. The Intrecciato leather is iconic to the brand, and the Arco enlarges the woven detail for an even more understated silhouette. The structured shape brings an extra element of polish whilst the delicate bow sits as the cherry on top of a truly exquisite bag. It also comes with a detachable strap and a removable interior pocket.
10. The Victoria Beckham V
Bringing practicality and style together is a hard feat, but one that Victoria Beckham makes look easy. The V tote is a classic shape with smooth leather and striking stitch detailing. Look out for clever design details such as a detachable strap for various ways to wear, as well as a fastening for the zip to create a neat silhouette when closed.
11. The Mulberry Bayswater
The Bayswater has been iconic since its creation and continues to be a highly coveted piece. The classic design has already proven its ability to stand the test of time, with an understated shape and subtle branding through the Postman's Lock and mulberry bush engraving.
12. DeMellier New York Tote
DeMellier has earned itself cult status over the last year or two, and that is mainly down this stunning tote. The New York bag now comes in multiple fabrications, including classic leather, suede and rattan, along with elegant hues from black and brown to olive and cream.
13. The Toteme T-Lock
Last but far from least, Toteme offers the T-Lock handbag. With an appreciation for long lasting design, the brand has crafted an enduring silhouette that moulds to the body through the soft grained leather. The subtle T closure nods to the bag's maker whilst keeping the craft and design front and centre.
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.
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