6 Small Bags that Pack a Dynamite Punch

As the mini bag trend holds strong, here are six artisanal iterations we are loving right now.

By Lindsay Samson

Jan 13, 2021

Ever since French label Jacquemus’ debuted their Mini Le Chiquito bag in early 2019, it appears that handbags have just been getting smaller and smaller. Tiny though they may be, these little doses of style still pack a major punch. And while some publications—including Refinery29 back in August of last year—have suggested that the reign of the microbag may soon be over, the international runways beg to differ.

Shop the full collection of small bags here.

fitini bag

by tongoro

A micro rendering of a classic purse style, the Fitini bag by Senegalese cult brand Tongoro is an on-trend example of minimalism. Featuring rolled top handles and a foldover flap, the Fitini is a timeless shape, an ethically crafted accessory that comes in two different colorways: a cream and emerald green combination, and a blend of pink and orange textured leather. with luxe materials reminiscent of softly scaled python and crocodile skin respectively.

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mini afro basket

by reform studio

Add a little artisanal edge to your wardrobe with the Mini Afro Basket Bag, an elegant drawstring basket tote from Egyptian accessories brand Reform Studio. Made from the ethical label’s signature Plastex material (a fabric created by Reform Studio from upcycled plastic bags), the petite, striking designs are sophisticated spins on the classic basket style. The bag is gilded with touches of gold hardware and comes in three versatile colorways: pink and orange, beige and gold, and black and gold.

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Lindi Minaudière

by khokho collection

Boasting a rich story of heritage preservation and community upskilling, this Lutundzi woven grass bag by Siswati accessories brand Khokho Collection is a durable addition to any wardrobe. It’s body is made of two concentric elliptical bands of color, sleek South African vegetable-tanned leather handles, canvas lining, and Italian gold-tone hardware. Available in four muted hues including a dusky pink and a neutral tan, the Lindi Minaudière is a stylish example of ethical production practices as it is made from locally sourced natural fibers that telegraph a sense of wanderlust.

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la petite ameena

by femihandbags

This mini version of Femi Handbags’ vibrant carryalls is a color-soaked piece that exudes flair and joie de vivre. It’s practical and pretty, a classic style that’s lent a degree of modernity by brilliant shades of dandelion yellow, emerald green, and hot magenta. A true statement bag if ever there was one, they’re handcrafted in Ibadan, Nigeria from Italian leather and finished with the brand’s signature Aso Oke fabric, whipstitched sides, hand-stitched, rolled handles, and hand sewn straps.

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aja Clutch

by okapi

Available in vivid colors including a brilliant pink, scarlet red and crystal blue, this ethically sourced ostrich skin clutch by South African brand Okapi is the epitome of jovial elegance. With its ability to smarten up even the most casual of outfits, the clutch has become an everyday staple in modern wardrobes, and this sleek design is no exception. Inspired by the story of Aja (an orisha—a deity of Yoruba mythology—said to hold mystical secrets of the forest), two of the bags (the black stonewash and blue versions) are fitted with playful yet luxurious Ostrich feather charms; another features a talismanic Springbok horn charm with a contemporary weaving detail, while a pink colorway is adorned with a fuchsia and yellow beaded tassel charm.

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salma clutch

by new tangier

With its soft woven cotton exterior and gold-plated brass fastening, the Salma Clutch bag by Moroccan label New Tangier is the type of versatile wardrobe hero that works well with just about everything. Featuring typical Moroccan Tarz embroidery, and handmade Sabra (a type of cactus silk) trimmings and tassel, the striking piece—which comes in black and blood red—are just the ticket to refine a daytime look, but works just as well as a companion to an evening dress.

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