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I am ridiculously precious about adding new things to my closet. I loathe stuff and am constantly chasing the idea of a perfectly modular wardrobe, where all of the silhouettes, colors, and accessories I own are optimized to create outfits that are comfortable, functional, flattering, and cute. On autopilot. Call me a dreamer.
Cuyana, a San Francisco brand founded in 2013, shares my picky mentality, operating under the motto of "fewer, better." It aims to design well-made essentials that with quality materials that they sell direct to consumer so there's no wholesale markup (if Everlane or AYR come to mind, we've arrived at the same page). So we're talking about simple but stylish pieces that are going hold up over time and don't cost an unreasonable sum. Clearly I am on board.
Today Cuyana launches a range of saddle bags that may be the foolproof day in, day out spring bag. The shape is paired down to a clean half circle shape with minimal hardware in a not-flashy gold finish. The bags come in spring-y colors like blush, mint, and stone, but are also available in classic black and brown (see all of them in the gallery above). There are two sizes available, priced at $295 and $195, which isn't nuts for a made-in-Italy leather or suede bag. Much like the appeal of, erm, a certain minimalist bag brand, the appeal of these guys is that they aren't overdesigned, and they fit a range of personal styles. And not everyone has them — yet.
Also cool: If you select "lean shipping" at checkout, they'll send you a reusable bag to fill with clothing donations to mail back with an included shipping label. The donations go to the non-profit H.E.A.R.T., and you get a $10 Cuyana credit toward future purchases. One new bag, way less baggage.
For even more handbag stalking, check out our list of eight brands making cool, affordable bags, and seven accessory lines doing minimalism right.
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