Itโs been said that bags can totally make or break an outfit โ a saying that I personally find true. As someone who has loved collecting bags from a very early age, it is the one fashion item that catches my eye most, no matter if Iโm just walking on the street or if Iโm going window shopping.
Just as with other fashion items, Korea makes beautiful, high quality bags that will blend seamlessly with any outfit or act as a focal point, depending on the style and mood of the wearer. Carefully designed and made, many of them are absolutely beautiful, with styles that have not been seen anywhere else around the world.
Itโs a particular joy of mine to discover bags from local designers, as the innovative designs that never take away from the practicality of the bag has never disappointed me even once. There is so much variety, with styles to suit anyone and constant new releases, which make this hobby of mine exceedingly dear to me.
These designer bags also carry a reasonable price tag for the quality โ make sure to look carefully and bring home one that will go well with all the clothes in your wardrobe to ensure you get the most use out of your purchase.
Osoi
One of the most well-loved brands amongst the fashion-savvy, Osoiโs strong point lies in their leather bags. Sporting unique designs with silver hardware, many of their products feature a more structured silhouette that goes perfectly with minimal, chic looks. Their catalogue is split mainly into two series: the Brot line, which features a smooth hinge opening, and their Bau line, with a magnetic strap adjustment tool that adds plus points to the overall design.
Most styles can be found in different sizes, so pick one that will suit your needs perfectly. The one-compartment design of their bags promises a suitably large storage space regardless, so even the smallest bags can fit quite a bit.
My personal favorite styles include the Peanut Brot, which has a rounded, puffed shape reminiscent of Korean dumplings, or mandu. The sleek lines and the all-leather design of the Peanut Brot make it more suitable for the colder months, in my opinion, and would look adorable paired with a large, warm coat. The long strap of the bag makes it a perfect crossbody option; shorten the strap for an added hint of cuteness, or wear it slightly longer for a carefree, effortless air reminiscent of the classic model-off-duty look.
The Toni model is also a particular favorite of mine, as the way it sits on the shoulder is so unique to me. This bag is also rounded, almost like a fuller crescent moon, and structured so that it holds this beautiful shape no matter what it carries within it. Unlike the Mini Brot, it has a silver zipper closing that allows for easy access to items within the bag. Perfect for both work and play, the Toni is truly one for the cool girls, especially those with a penchant for leather and black-and-white outfits.
Osoi can be found on their official website, or at their flagship store in Seongsu-dong.
Marge Sherwood
Most known for the playful colors the brand enjoys releasing season after season, Marge Sherwood has been enjoying a surge in popularity, especially this summer season where everyone is looking for a bright pop of color to accentuate their outfits. Recognizable by the signature rounded bottoms of the handles, this detail has been replicated across many of the different styles the brand carries.
The brand also specializes in smaller bags. Complimenting the rise of the โultra-miniโ bag trend, many of Marge Sherwoodโs most popular bags come in slimmer, shorter silhouettes. Donโt be fooled by appearances, though โ many of them have a larger storage capacity than they look on the outside. In comparison, the longer straps these models have allow the user to access items within it more easily, and also allows bags to sit comfortably on the shoulder while adding a pop of quirkiness to the design.
My top pick is the Bessette Tote, a relatively newer addition to the brand lineup. Featuring a rectangular shape with rounded corners, it brings to mind the classic Boston bag shape loved for its versatility and beauty. The white stitching on the Plain Black color is charming, but so is the crocodile finish โ I canโt possibly choose.
The colors of the Zipper Small line are also absolutely adorable, and completely rare โ how often would you be able to find a good-quality leather bag in a bright apple green? My personal favorite out of the bunch is the muted Sky Blue color that is sure to go with any outfit without looking out of place.
Marge Sherwood can be found on their official website or at their flagship store in Seongsu-dong.ย
