I Took a Deep Dive Into the World of Mulberry Handbags—Here's Why They're Worth Every Penny

When it comes to luxury British heritage brands, few have weathered the test of time as elegantly as Mulberry. Founded in 1971, the brand has long been celebrated for its expert craftsmanship and timeless designs, a combination that has led to many styles reaching icon status over the decades.

From its original cult favorites, such as the Bayswater and Alexa, to newer styles, such as the long-handled, '90s-inspired Boston, the brand continues to set the standard for high-quality, highly sought-after heritage leather goods. Proudly the largest manufacturer of its kind in the UK, Mulberry crafts half of its bags in Somerset factories by a team of around 600 people, each dedicated to preserving the brand's traditional leatherworking techniques. That standard of hand-finished detail normally comes with an equally substantial price tag, but these celebrity-approved designs come with an entry-level price point.

Most recently, Mulberry has been undergoing an exciting creative transformation with the appointment of its latest creative director, Christopher Kane, who's leading the modernization of the brand's classic offerings while continuing to grow its sustainability and made-in-the-UK credentials.

And though Kane's debut collection at the brand won't be for a couple of months, it reminded me of my deep adoration for the British business, so I decided to take a closer look at why Mulberry's designs are so impressive. Keep reading to discover why these It bags are a cut above the rest.

Craftspeople Are At the Core

Mulberry's handbags are crafted from supple, responsibly sourced leather and feature signature details such as the Mulberry Tree and Postman's Lock, all brought to life by its expert team of artisans who meticulously oversee every step of each handbag's creation. From panel cutting to stitching to assembly, you can be assured of exceptional craftsmanship and quality.

A Luxury Brand With B-Corp Status

A rigorous certification that assesses a brand's sustainable practices, a B-Corp certification is a significant achievement for brands aiming to deliver greater transparency across their social and environmental performance, something Mulberry gained in 2024.

Focusing on circular production and noting that certification is far from the end goal, Mulberry partners with regenerative farmers and environmentally accredited tanneries to ensure a more sustainable production process throughout. Additionally, the brand also supports charities across London and Somerset, investing in the local communities where it operates.

Impressive UK-Based Manufacturing

Each Mulberry bag is distinctly marked with its country of origin as part of the brand's mission for transparency and as a meaningful way to bridge the connection between the artisan and the handbag.

Known as The Rookery and The Willows, Mulberry's Somerset factories are responsible for around 50% of the brand's bag production, producing up to 1100 bags per week.

A Range of Iconic Designs

Mulberry's handbag legacy is defined by timeless designs that have become synonymous with British luxury. Loved by fashion insiders, royals, and celebrities alike, its most recognizable designs exude style without compromising function.

At the heart of the brand is the Bayswater, released in the 2000s. The bag is known for its structured silhouette, featuring key Mulberry motifs. Equally renowned is the Alexa, named after Alexa Chung; it's a classic, relaxed, satchel-inspired silhouette that reflects Chung's effortlessly cool demeanor. And we can't forget the Amberley—a versatile, everyday shape that nods to the British countryside through its equestrian Rider's Lock buckle.

The Accessible Price Point

With all of this in mind, you might assume you'd have to break the bank to acquire one of these handbags. However, the brand positions itself within the accessible luxury market, offering an entry-level route for investing in high-quality luxury goods. Mulberry bags range from $400 to around $2000, including authenticated pre-loved handbags, which provide an opportunity to ethically source a Mulberry handbag at a more attainable price point.

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This article was originally published on Marie Claire UK.