PSA: I think I might have found the perfect handbag. And no, it’s not from The Row or Chanel, and it isn’t going to cost you your entire mortgage to secure (Although, if you saw it on the street, I wouldn’t blame you for thinking it was designer.) It’s actually from the high street. To be exact, it’s from Arket, which makes sense when you consider the Scandi brand’s track record for producing seriously expensive-looking pieces at the more affordable end of the scale. I’m used to finding amazing clothing there by now, but the Rigid Leather Bag—which was originally released last year—has taken the brand’s accessory offering to a whole new level.
Arket has always done minimalism so well, and this bestselling bag is no exception. It has polished, clean lines and is crafted from supple double-bonded leather that’s made with a chrome-free tanning process (much kinder to the planet). There are no loud logos or cheap-looking details—just a chic oversized leather buckle on one side of the handle. It comes in a handy crossbody size for every day as well as a larger tote if you prefer space to carry a laptop and more.
You can't go wrong with a classic black handbag.
When I first laid eyes on the bag online, I could have sworn it was designer, so I went into the store to see if it lived up to expectations IRL. The answer? Yes, it did. Since then, I've seen a handful of influencers also carrying it, so it's clear I'm not alone in my thinking. Arket has managed to hit that sweet spot, creating a bag that’s utterly desirable for right now but timeless enough to hold its own in your wardrobe for many years to come. It’s one of those styles that will make every outfit look polished no matter which colour you have it in, which, in my opinion, is a key attribute to look out for when investing in a handbag.
Keep scrolling to see if you agree with me and to shop the bag below. Some of the iterations are already starting to sell out, but this has already proven to be a hero product which the brand restocks often in OG and fresh colourways, so keep your eyes peeled…
The suede iteration has since sold out, but the tan leather style is just as beautiful.
The interior is roomy and has handy compartments for storing valuables.
Content creator Jessica Skye makes a case for the cream version.
Shop Arket's crossbody bag:
The white version is so contemporary.
Carry by the top-handle or wear crossbody.
The green really packs a punch.
The mini version is perfect for nights out.
Just pack the essentials.
Now available in a suede finish.
I'm expecting to see this pink iteration doing the rounds on social media.
Shop Arket's tote bag:
This oversized style can even fit your laptop.
I'll use mine for all my travel essentials and as a beach bag when away.
This tan shade will go with everything.
Shop more bags from Arket:
Another bag that could easily pass for designer.
It comes in cream, too.
An ideal evening and/or wedding guest handbag.
Nothing beats the structure and versatility of a bucket bag.
Made from recycled polyester.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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