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Radley Stories

Style Notes

The Five Classic Handbags You Need In Your Wardrobe

11 May 2022

What makes a classic handbag? Well, as legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent once said, “fashion fades, style is eternal”. We couldn’t agree more. The finest leathers and materials go in to making every Radley London design. Paired with decades of expertise from our artisan makers. So you can love yours for years to come. 

“What makes a great handbag? Quality craftsmanship, attention to detail and amazing design both inside and out. The size, colour and shape are obviously important, but the handbag has to work with the needs of modern life.” Zizi, Director of Design

Our London Design Studio - headed up by the fantastic Zizi - make it their mission to create bags you’ll always want by your side. Here’s our guide to some of the best classic bags for ladies.

1) ABINGDON ROAD - YOUR EFFORTLESSLY SMART TOTE

Designed to work as hard as you do. Abingdon Road tote is the ultimate in form-meets-function. Crafted out of brilliantly tactile grained leather, it features a spacious interior and a zip fastening to keep your essentials safe. There’s even a separate padded laptop sleeve. No need for the extra (usually not-so-stylish) laptop bag. Side pockets provide the perfect place to stash your keys or a bottle of hand sanitiser.

2) MANOR GROVE - YOUR OFF-DUTY CROSS BODY

Our take on the classic camera handbag shape, Manor Grove gets an A+ for multi-tasking (just like you). As well as being one of our top classic bags to buy. Proving that everyday pieces can still be luxurious, this design combines expert craftsmanship with details you didn't know you needed until now. Such as a slip pocket on the back, and a detachable key fob decorated with our iconic Scottie dog.  

 3) LIVERPOOL STREET 2.0 - FROM WORK TO PLAY

A new take on a style you love, Liverpool Street 2.0 is fast becoming a Radley London classic. Adored for its versatility and timeless silhouette. Carry it by the handle or wear as a cross body. A hands-free bonus when carrying your takeaway flat white and texting at the same time. Its triple compartment interior is an organisation-lover's dream. Talk about classic handbags that don’t go out of style.

4) LORNE CLOSE – THE SUPER SLEEK BACKPACK

Thought backpacks were only for the most casual days? You haven’t seen Lorne Close. This square silhouette is made in grained leather. With a secure zip fastening under the top flap and two zip pockets at the sides. Keeping everything safe but easily accessible. You’ll use it for weekends, holidays and days spent exploring.  

5) SUMMERSTOWN - RETRO-STYLE SHOULDER BAG

With more than a nod to the ‘90s, our Summerstown shoulder bag brings to mind the cool girl style of Kate Moss and her fellow icons of the decade. The detachable strap even converts to a cross body that’s dancefloor friendly. For when the ‘90s hits start to play. The quiet luxury of the supple leather with have you ready to show this bag off at every opportunity.

We know colour is all-important when choosing a bag. That’s why we make all of these in core shades like Mahogany and Black. Although you can never go wrong with a classic, our Designers also love to have some fun and bring you fresh shades inspired by catwalk trends every season. See the latest colours online.

There’s so much more to see in our range of handbags, purses and footwear. And stay up to date with our latest adventures on Radley Stories.