21 Timeless Handbag Designers We Love

Are you looking for a classic leather handbag ethically crafted and with environmentally responsible materials? You’ve come to the right place. COSH! has curated a selection of 21 stylish handbag brands based in Belgium and the Netherlands. When you choose a high-quality handbag produced locally, you not only minimise your ecological footprint but also invest in a durable accessory that can last for years. Curious to explore our recommendations? Keep reading!

Create the handbag of your dreams

Mien Kaba

You can make an appointment to create the handmade bag of your dreams in Mien Kaba​’s workshop in Sint-Andries, near Brugge. Dominique is a real craftswoman, and all handbags are custom-made. This way, Mien Kaba avoids overstock and only creates unique pieces at the customers’ request. Dominique is very passionate about her job and uses different kinds of leather, including fish leather.

Would you like to see Mien Kaba’s bags in person? Don’t hesitate to make an appointment and visit her studio in Bruges.

Create your own handbag from rescued leather

Monsak

Are you searching for a bespoke handbag concept in the Netherlands? Then, Monsak in Amsterdam is a store you must explore. Margriet’s lifelong passion for bags led her to embark on a journey to create the perfect bag that met all her requirements. This led her to collaborate with her mother’s leather machine, ultimately transforming her hobby into a thriving business. In 2012, Margriet established her studio in Amsterdam, where she crafts unique and minimalist bags.

Each Monsak bag is meticulously handmade from reclaimed leather, originally discarded by major fashion brands, and rigorously inspected to meet stringent quality standards. Margriet’s creations include timeless backpacks, shoulder bags, crossbody bags, and shoppers.

If you already have a specific bag in mind, Monsak offers made-to-measure services. If you’re feeling creative and wish to learn the art of making your own handbag, you can participate in a workshop at her atelier. Moreover, when your Monsak bag requires some care and attention, Margriet can breathe new life into it, ensuring you can enjoy your handbag for years to come.

Curious about what makes Monsak a more sustainable brand? Dive deeper into our brand screening to learn more.

Tailor-made bags made of upcycled leather

An Vandenberk

Designer An Vandenberk makes hand-made leather bags from her workshop in Schaarbeek. They are made from upcycled leather she found or from leather items brought in by customers. Imagine repurposed old leather jackets, shoes, or bags transformed into your new favourite handbag! You can also choose a bag made from deadstock leather or new, certified leather from Belgium, the Netherlands or France. 

An combines individuality with eco-conscious elegance by collaborating with you to create your very own dream bag. Make an appointment in her atelier and have a bag made that you will cherish for a lifetime. Discover our in-depth brand screening of An Vandenberk here.

Unique, TIMELESS and ethical bags

MYoMY

You may already know this brand from the iconic leather MY PAPER BAG, but MYoMY offers many more beautiful leather bags! At MYoMY, ethical production and quality are top priorities. The intention is that you can enjoy your purchase for years to come. At COSH! we are true fans of this approach!

Certified factories ethically produce MYoMY’s handbags in collaboration with three small-scale factories based in Bangladesh, India and Romania. In addition, the bags are made from LWG certified leather and a lining made of RPET recycled materials.

Handcrafted made-to-order bags and accessories

Studio Roem

Looking for a leather shopper, fanny pack, wallet or another leather accessory such as a belt? Studio Roem produces its products on demand at its own workshop in Amsterdam! Studio Roem’s products are carefully crafted with love from high-quality European leather originating as a by-product of the meat industry, with every last piece of leather being used.

Studio Roem’s leather goods, inspired by the timeless beauty of nature, are crafted to transcend fleeting trends. Every bag is unique, designed for longevity, a testament to enduring style and quality. Embracing this commitment to durability, Studio Roem proudly offers a remarkable 100-year guarantee – an unbelievable promise of lasting elegance. Adding a touch of personalisation, Studio Roem also offers the option to engrave these leather treasures with a personal message, making each piece not just a personal keepsake. Want to know more about the brand? Then read more here.

CUSTOM-DESIGNED, MADE-TO-ORDER BAGS WITH A SLEEK ANTWERP STYLE

Sofie Darche

Are you looking for a timeless leather bag with a clean look? Then, a bag from Sofie Darche may be the perfect fit for you. Bags from this Antwerp brand are handmade, partly by Sofie Darche herself in Antwerp and partly in a certified workshop in Romania. The bags are made from European leather from the meat industry that is tanned in Italy. The material is very durable and has good resistance against dirt and water. 

Craftsmanship, sustainability and transparency are key for Sofie Darche. To avoid overproduction and waste, she only produces on demand. In addition, all bags are timeless, so you can enjoy your Sofie Darche for a long time.

Sofie Darche can be found at a number of stores. You can see their location on the map at the bottom of the brand screening.

SLOW FASHION LEATHER bags 

Lies Mertens

At Lies Mertens, you’ll find minimalistic handbags designed in Belgium and produced in Italy and Tunisia. The leather is Silver and Gold Working Group (LWG)certified calf leather. The leather is party-tanned with chrome. However, dying occurs within Europe, requiring adherence to the EU’s strict legislation. 

For designer Lies Mertens, it all started with a search for a versatile, high-quality handbag without frills. That’s why her first bags are very personal and reflect her own needs and taste. 

Today, each design is inspired by real people who intrigue her: a homage to their lives, dreams and ideals. The striking thing about Lies Mertens’ bags is that she puts people she knows to work to design and develop their handbags. 

Read the brand screening and discover on the map at the bottom of the page where you can buy stylish handbags from Lies Mertens.

HANDMADE LEATHER BAGS, LOCALLY Crafted IN ROTTERDAM

O* olga korstanje

O* olga korstanje is the bag brand of Belgian designer Olga Korstanje. The studio is located in her shop in Rotterdam, so you can take a look behind the scenes at how the bags are made. Adhering to traditional leather techniques, Olga herself makes the bags here. This way, you can be sure that your purchase has been made with great care and love. You can also have it repaired if something is wrong with your bag. This way, your favourite bag will last even longer!

Would you like to read more about how sustainable the bags by O* olga korstanje are? Read the brand screening here.

Tradition, innovation and love for the craft all in one bag

STN.bags

STN.bags is a beautiful Belgian brand that focuses on both craftsmanship and circularity. Designer Stien Vandecasteele started her label in 2014. The collection features unique designs made from discarded leather, and the brand also has a special project called ​“I once was a jacket”. In short, it has original handbags and accessories tailored to meet your desires. Make an appointment and drop by the atelier in Gistel to admire the bags of STN.bags. Discover our brand screening to learn more about the brand here.

Give your leather handbag a makeover

HOIHOI

Would you like to keep your beloved leather handbag in use, but could it use a makeover? HOIHOI is a professional repair service for luxury shoes, belts and designer handbags. With the help of HOIHOI, your bag can be restored to its full glory, or stains can be removed from the leather. This way, you can enjoy your favourite bag for many more years!

The leather repair workshop is behind a house in Oosterzele, near Ghent, but HOIHOI offers a fully digital service. Read more about HOIHOI’s restoration methods here.

Leather handbags, made locally in Rotterdam

Zoë Detrez

Looking for a unique and timeless handbag? The designer Zoë Detrez makes unique, made-to-order bags in her studio in Rotterdam. Her collection showcases elegant and minimalist designs that transcend gender and season boundaries.

Each bag is crafted from European vegetable-tanned cow leather. This ensures the EU’s strict labour and environmental laws are adhered to. However, it does not certify animal welfare. 

Uniquely, she opts not to use any lining. This means each bag is composed entirely of the same material, simplifying the recycling process significantly.

Want to read more about how sustainable Zoë Detrez’s handbags are? Read our brand screening here.

sublime fusion of design and exceptional craftsmanship

Elise Verdegem

Experience the pinnacle of craftsmanship with Elise Verdegem. Each leather creation is a testament to meticulous artistry, curated with passion and precision. Every step, from handpicked materials to flawless finishes, is an ode to quality.

Elise Verdegem redefines sustainability in leather. Thoughtfully sourcing vegetable-tanned hides from Europe, they minimise waste and create pieces designed to stand the test of time. 

Unleash your unique style with Elise Verdegem’s limited edition collection. Choose your dream bag, customising model, colour, and details. 

Want to read more about how sustainable Elise Verdegem’s handbags are? Read our brand screening here.

HANDMADE IN BRUGES

purpose. 

Newcomer to Bruges is purpose. accessories. The handbags and accessories are designed and made in the atelier in Bruges. Here, designer Marlies herself makes all the designs by hand. You can take a look behind the scenes at the brand yourself, as the atelier and workshop space are located in the shop. Discover an in-depth review of the brand’s sustainability endeavours here.

Locally Crafted In BRUGES

Leather Be

They don’t sit still in Bruges as Francine Jansseune was also appointed Handmade in Bruges maker with her brand Leather Be in 2023. She makes custom-made bags and accessories in the Langestraat, but you can also choose from already existing models.

ANTWERPS DESIGN

Annelies Timmermans

Discover the beautiful handbags by Annelies Timmermans, where quality and attention to detail are key. Each item is made with care and craftsmanship.

With full control over design, production and distribution, Annelies Timmermans represents the essence of modern elegance and timeless quality. Explore the collection via Annelies Timmermans’ web­shop and find the perfect handbag for any occasion. Discover our in-depth brand analysis here.

Knitted bags

La Femme Garniture

Looking for a tote bag made from a unique fabric? You will find bags made of colourful knits at the Ghent-based brand La Femme Garniture. The fabrics comprise uncertified merino sheep’s wool and polyamide, while the handles are leather. Unfortunately, the raw materials are not certified cruelty-free and are not traceable.

The entire collection is Belgian-made; most materials come from Western Europe. In short, La Femme Garniture completes your outfit with its unique statement bags. Want to read more about the brand? Click here.

Do you prefer a vegan bag? We’ve got you!

Bags made from leftover fabrics

koda amsterdam

koda amsterdam​’s circular bags are ethically made in Dutch workshops. With an eye for quality, cutting scraps of curtain fabric, furniture upholstery and tents are transformed into stylish pouches, bags, cushions and plaids. Note: not all bags are 100% vegan, as some have leather handles.

koda amsterdam proves that circularity, social employment and style go hand in hand. Curious about koda’s full story? Read more here.

Want to discover more beautiful clothing and accessories? Check out our shopping guide and find sustainable fashion in your style and within your budget!

Also read:

Is vegan leather better for the environment?

The story behind your leather handbag and shoes

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