DeMellier’s New York Tote Is the Only Bag I'm Interested In

last updated 27 February 2024

I know I'm a fashion editor and some might consider what I'm about to say sacrilegious but, personally speaking, I'm not all that into high-end designer bags. Of course, I'd never kick a Chanel out of bed, nor refuse the gift of a Lady Dior point blank; I would simply rather spend my money on something else. What I do advocate for, however, are affordable luxury bags. Of course, what constitutes as "affordable" to one person will vary greatly to another, and I can possibly determine what that will mean to you specifically but, for arguments sake, let's agree on £500 or less. It's still a significant amount of money, no doubt about it, but it is a figure I'd be prepared to save for should the right handbag come along. Cue DeMellier's New York tote bag.

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London-based brand DeMellier has become one of the most talked about bag brands this year, and it's not hard to see why. Leaning heavily on classicism and with a focus on producing handbags that are genuinely timeless, they've quickly become a fashion-person favourite. And it's DeMellier New York tote bag that seems to be the brand's breakout and most coveted style.

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The New York collection compromises of four styles; a cute bucket bag, handy crossbody and two sizes of its tote—a midi and a standard. Featuring comfortable tubular handles that nestle in crook of your arm, triangular folds to either side to give it an unmistakeable shape, and premium-looking metal hardware and feet to set it upon, the brand says its the perfect everyday bag—which it is!—but that doesn't detract from its special feel.

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The DeMellier Midi New York tote bag currently comes in a selection of six elegant colours, a selection of versatile neutrals including black, brown, tan, cream and taupe, and retails for £425. The larger New York tote is £480 and you cab choose from black, black croc, soft grey or tan.

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I've been considering investing in DeMellier New York tote bag for a while now—the midi being the size I've set my sights on. Scroll on to see and shop DeMellier's New York tote bags in every colour (I'm going for the brown). Then continue on to browse the bucket and crossbody styles, too.

Shop DeMellier's The Midi New York Tote Bag

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Black Small Grain

Such a versatile bag.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Mocha Small Grain

Dark chocolate hues are so premium.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Olive Small Grain Ecru Stitching

This olive shade has my full attention.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Black Croc Effect

Add a contrasting texture to your looks with this croc version.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Tan Small Grain Ecru Stitching

It also comes with a longer strap for various ways to wear.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Taupe Small Grain

The magnetic closure ensures the striking shape stays intact.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Off-White Small Grain

Modern yet timeless.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Tan Suede & Tan Smooth

Sold out but coming back soon, so sign up for alerts if this is your pick of the bunch.

DeMellier

The Midi New York | Black Small Grain Ecru Stitching

The delicate contrast stitching is a nice touch.

Shop DeMellier's The New York Tote Bag

DeMellier

The New York | Black Croc Effect

The larger size will carry all your essentials, and much more.

DeMellier

The New York | Tan Small Grain Ecru Stitching

The gold hardware compliments every single shade.

DeMellier

The New York | Black Small Grain

Yes, its big enough for your laptop.

DeMellier

The New York | Off-White Small Grain

This shade is a new addition to the New York family.

Shop DeMellier's The New York Crossbody Bag

DeMellier

The New York Crossbody | Mocha Suede & Mocha Small Grain

There's no denying the useful nature of a crossbody bag.

DeMellier

The New York Crossbody | Off-White Small Grain

The metal lock is a subtle nod to the brand.

DeMellier

The New York Crossbody | Light Tan Small Grain

Nude tones go with everything.

Shop DeMellier's The New York Bucket Bag

DeMellier

The New York Bucket | Tan Small Grain

I'm a big fan of a bucket bag for their Mary Poppins-like ability to hold more than you'd expect.

DeMellier

The New York Bucket | Black Small Grain With Leather Strap

Inside you'll find pockets to keep your essentials close to hand.

DeMellier

The New York Bucket | Olive Small Grain

The olive and black contrast is so good.

DeMellier

The New York Bucket | Off-White Small Grain

The long strap offers both shoulder and crossbody styling options.

Demellier

The New York Bucket | Black Small Grain With Suede Strap

This black style features a contrasting suede strap.

Next Up: The Spring/Summer 2024 Fashion Trends That Really Matter

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

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Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.