Who Needs a Birkin? Discover Stunning Handbags by Black Designers The Hermès Birkin bag has long been the ultimate symbol of luxury and status. However, with its hefty price tag, owning one may seem impossible unless you're a Kardashian. Fortunately, there's a new wave of luxury handbags by Black designers that deliver high-quality craftsmanship and distinctive style, making a Birkin seem obsolete. Here are some of our favorite picks:
1. Ree Projects by Desiree Kleinen Based in Amsterdam, Desiree Kleinen's Ree Projects offers luxurious, minimalist bags. Formerly a design consultant at Karl Lagerfeld and Balmain, Kleinen launched Ree Projects in 2016. The Ann Tote is a standout piece, crafted from 100% Italian soft calf leather, combining simplicity with elegance.
2. Silver & Riley by Lola Banjo Founded in 2019, Silver & Riley by Lola Banjo epitomizes luxury with its premium leather handbags. The Classic New Yorker Bag is a modern reinterpretation of a timeless design, perfect for everyday sophistication.
3. Telfar by Telfar Clemens Telfar Clemens' eponymous brand has garnered fans like Beyoncé and Oprah. The "Bushwick Birkin," also known as the Large Shopping Bag, features both top handles and a crossbody strap, making it both stylish and practical for business.
4. Olori by Tomide Awe Nigerian-born Tomide Awe founded Olori, which means "queen" in Yoruba. The brand supports girls' education in underserved African communities. The Adunni Micro Tote is a unique blend of leather and Nigerian hand-loomed fabric, ensuring you stand out.
5. Anima Iris Handcrafted in Senegal, Anima Iris handbags are known for their vivid colors and bold designs. The Zaza Grande, made from 100% leather, features a distinctive twisted handle that is sure to make a statement.
6. Agnes Baddoo For those who prefer understated elegance, Agnes Baddoo offers the Sac Petit. This versatile bag is perfect for both business luncheons and casual outings, featuring a simple yet sophisticated design.
7. Monazeni Marketed as "luxury bags with attitude," Monazeni delivers on this promise. The Sienna Bag, made from premium vegan leather and adorned with gold-tone hardware, is a must-have.
8. Liselle Kiss A purchase from Liselle Kiss supports the A21 Campaign, a nonprofit fighting human trafficking. The Melle Zebra bag, crafted from Italian repurposed leather, features a glamorous brass chain.
9. Brandon Blackwood Known for turning classic designs upside down, Brandon Blackwood creates unique pieces like the Bamboo B Tote, made from 100% genuine ombré salvator lizard skin.
10. MAX + min by Tiarra Smallwood MAX + min by Tiarra Smallwood is celebrated for its chic designs. The Emory Leather Tote is made from 100% leather and features a metal handle that adds a subtle, chic statement.
11. EDAS by Sadie Mims EDAS, founded by Sadie Mims, offers handbags in bold colors and playful shapes. The Yshaia Mini is a leather mini-bag with an adjustable strap and unique buckle, perfect for any occasion.
12. Florian London Founded by Tola in 2013, Florian London offers meticulously crafted handbags. The Belle Bucket Bag is the newest addition to the Florian London Family.
13. J2 Collection by Julian James II Julian James II turns high-quality leather into stunning pieces for his brand, J2 Collection. The Emerald Green Signature Tote combines buttery soft green leather with smooth grey suede, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
14. CISE With an important message embossed on each bag, CISE prioritizes both style and purpose. The PBP Vegan Leather Bag features the slogan "Protect Black People," making it a statement piece crafted from high-quality vegan leather.
Discover these Black-owned handbag brands that offer both luxury and style—without needing a Birkin. Embrace high-quality craftsmanship and support diversity in the fashion industry.