Ditch the logo-heavy designer totes in favor of a purse lovingly crafted in your own backyard.
Brahmin
Since 1982, Brahmin has been designing structured leather handbags underpinned by its signature Melbourne leather—a croc-embossed cowhide beloved for its unique texture and glossy finish. Based in Fairhaven, the family-run brand is known for structured silhouettes, clever compartments, and high-quality craftsmanship—all at a rate that feels surprisingly attainable. brahmin.com.
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For Sculptural Utility
Peng Bags
A revered Boston interior designer, Meichi Peng’s love of well-made handbags and a childhood dream of becoming a fashion designer led her to launch her own line. The designs carry the hallmarks of her training: Made of supple leather, each satchel, crossbody, and tote is as visually appealing as it is functional, coming in a range of colors and bearing unique hallmarks, including exposed stitching, cowhide hair, and lace. pengbags.com.
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For Maximalist Style
Kimberly Pucci
Newport bag designer Kimberly Pucci worked among master artisans in Florence, Italy, where she learned the craft from goldsmiths and leatherworkers who continue to inform her brand today. Her bold pieces vary from structured clutches to roomy carryalls, each distinguished by vivid hues, custom hardware, and sculpted silhouettes designed for both elegance and everyday function. kimberlypucci.com.
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For an Artisanal Edge
Lindquist
The Lindquist brand was born out of creative director and co-founder Lindy McDonough’s desire to make bags that were sustainable, timeless, and locally crafted. Ranging considerably in color and style—we love the ripple-edge “Scallop Shell Mezzo” in chartreuse—the pieces are made of vegetable-tanned leather in small batches at an East Providence, Rhode Island, factory. To contribute to the bespoke feel of each one, embossed numbers on the leather indicate the edition of the bag, while letters indicate the maker. lindquist-object.com.
For a Twist on a Coastal Icon
Whale Tail Weaving
Winchester-based founder Bridget Wiatrowski remembers watching her mother make Nantucket lightship baskets—originally crafted by sailors—when she was growing up. With Whale Tail Weaving, she not only keeps the tradition alive, but aims to reimagine the iconic bag with an elevated leather purse version, which retains the basket’s rounded silhouette and artisanal spirit while adding refined touches such as handcarved fossil mammoth knobs. Lightweight and made to patina over time, the bags are equal parts heritage and everyday luxury. whaletailweaving.com.
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