In the three years(!) since I started MIDDI, I’ve written about a lot of wonderful mid-priced brands. Some have made repeat appearances in multiple editions, as I’ve returned to them again and again. In this new monthly feature, I’m going to highlight some of those brands that have delivered on all fronts — quality, design and price — that I know I’ll be sending more of my hard-earned money down the line.

First up: Strathberry.

A good handbag is something I’m willing to spend a bit more on. And while I wish I had the DBI (disposable bag income) to purchase a new handbag every month in whatever color or pattern I fancy, that’s just not possible (or sensible). So instead of going for trends, when I shop for a handbag, I look for something timeless, functional and beautiful. Strathberry ticks all of those boxes, and has won a bevy of fans that includes the Duchess of Cambridge and Kelly Rutherford.

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Strathberry was founded in 2013 by Guy and Leeanne Hundleby in Edinburgh. Drawing inspiration from their Scottish roots as well as their time living in Spain, the couple’s mission was to create a leather goods brand with all of the trappings of a luxury line without the insurmountable price tag. Thanks to a Kickstarter campaign, they prioritized craftsmanship and accessibility from day one.

strathberry

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Aside from the price point (most bags are between £175 and £695), it was the classic, minimalist design that drew me to Strathberry. Their bags can be dressed up or down, managing to look both cool and elegant at the same time. Each one is produced by hand and in limited runs at their workshops in Spain using sustainably sourced materials, with high-end details like their signature music bar enclosure.

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Some of Strathberry’s most popular styles include the Mosaic and the Strathberry Tote, but my first purchase was the Osette (pictured above). This mini bucket bag (with removable crossbody strap) holds so much more than you imagine when you first see it while still being the perfect size for both daytime outings and evening soirees. I got the black version and now I just need to decide which color to buy next.

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MIDDI is a weekly newsletter highlighting the best mid-priced beauty, fashion and home buys written by a millennial with a (somewhat under control) shopping problem. Let me know what you’re shopping for in the comments or send me a message.