The power celebrities hold is crazy when you think about it. They get spotted at a restaurant, we want to go there. They’re papped at a new holiday destination, we want to visit. And when it comes to outfits, we want to add what they're adding to basket. But of course, you always assume that everything they own must be super expensive. So, when we clocked some of our favourite celebs all wearing the same just-about-affordable (read: it won’t require a loan) bags from Aspinal, you can imagine our excitement.
Most recently, Kate Middleton was seen wearing her Aspinal Of London East West Leather Tote Bag during a royal visit in Wales. The tote is the perfect capacious carry-all, making for the ultimate work bag that fits everything but the kitchen sink. Middleton wears the camel colourway, wonderfully styled with her favourite McQueen coat, but the tote bag is also available in black, white, blue and pink.
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As well as the East West bag, the Aspinal Mayfair Bag - the handbag du jour, if you will - has found its way into the wardrobes of an entire laundry list of celebrities; Kate Middleton, Gigi Hadid, Em Rata, J.Lo, and plenty of others too. One of the originals to rep the bag, Kate Middleton touched down in Copenhagen back in 2022 wearing a red bouclé jacket from Zara, we repeat, Zara! With this rather punchy blazer, Kate wore tailored black trousers, black courts and the sleekest top handle bag in glossy black to match. And guess which Aspinal style it was? None other than the aptly named Midi Mayfair. One of the label’s signature handbag styles, the brand has now launched the design in not one, not two, but 30 other colourways and prints.
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The same year Bridgerton's Simone Ashley attended the Grand Prix in Monaco wearing a '90s-style patchwork halterneck top, a matching bandana scarf by designer Conner Ives and carrying the same Aspinal of London bag. Choosing from the plethora of designs, Ashley opted for the high summer iteration in raffia. The ultimate summer accessory, the raffia and responsibly sourced tan leather together is the perfect pairing. And she’s not the only one who's taken a liking to this new design.
The Mayfair bag itself features the signature shield lock that makes it instantly recognisable, as well as a lined interior, central zipped compartment and open pockets - so, if like me you can't leave the house without the kitchen sink, you're covered. Plus, made from full-grain leather and designed with versatility in mind, the bag can be carried with either the top handle, or worn crossbody with a detachable leather strap. Proof, the Midi Mayfair is a modern heirloom in the making.
Shop: Celeb-Loved Aspinal Of London Bags
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The Princess of Wales has this exact bag, which is the perfect size if you need to fit more than just your essentials. It has two open compartments separated by a zip compartment, meaning you can stash just about everything in there.
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While this isn't Simone Ashley's exact bag – that specific style has been discontinued – it is very similar. If the glossy leather styles are too formal for you, this lighter take on the Mayfair bag is the perfect option.
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The ideal companion for your next event, the Mayfair Clutch 2 is available in four designs, including this stunning evergreen patent croc. It also features a detachable chain strap if you want to wear it as a shoulder bag.
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The mini version of the Mayfair has all the style points of its bigger sister but is more compact. That doesn't mean you can't fit your essentials, though – this is the perfect bag for a night out.
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An even more luxe version of the Princess of Wales's favourite, this green velvet style features beautiful embroidery for a striking bag you'll want to keep forever.
Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion contributor to Grazia UK.