Handbags
Feb 20, 2023

This Affordable Handbag Label Is Like the Zara of the Accessories World

by Emma Spedding

The high-street excels in so many areas. However, we find that handbags can be harder to shop for on a budget. It can be difficult to find affordable leather handbags that don't look cheap and won't fall to pieces the minute you put a laptop in them. But there is one under-the-radar high-street label that creates on-trend, expensive-looking handbags that won't break the bank.

Singaporean label Charles & Keith is the Zara of the accessories world, and although you can order its bags online, it still remains a relatively insider name here in the UK. This has been our secret go-to place to go for minimal, pared-back designs with a selection of tan, black and navy bucket bags, backpacks and top-handle bags. As well as practical everyday totes, the brand has also nailed the micro-bag trend with mini saddle bags and sparkling clutches. Did we mention their impressive shoe selection is also a Who What Wear team favourite?

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COURTESY OF CHARLES & KEITH

For those brushing up on Charles & Keith, the store launched back in 1996, originally specialising in shoes, but then later expanded its accessories offering. The brand has, however, only recently upped its profile here in the UK, partly due to Game of Thrones star Maisie Williams carrying its £40 triangular pouch bag on the red carpet several times, and mega stars such J.Lo and Sienna Miller being snapped in their designer-rivalling designs too.