We’re entering that tricky transitional period when raffia totes and woven basket bags - which felt so right on sun-drenched days - start to lose their charm. Cooler weather is creeping in, and with it, the inevitable shift in our wardrobes to reflect the changing season. Accessories, of course, are no exception, with handbags playing a key role, both as statement pieces and practical companions. Finding a bag that feels versatile enough for lingering warm days, yet seamlessly adapts to brisker evenings and richer palettes can be tricky, but I'm already firmly set on my next investment.
A little backstory: all summer long, I’ve been exclusively using my Strathberry Osette Raffia in Black, and honestly, I’ve more than gotten my ROI. It gave my other favourites, the Gucci logo-print canvas tote and Chloé Woody mini cotton-canvas tote, a well-deserved break. My obsession became so intense that I even bought another in a different colour. But autumn is coming, and as much as I’d love to wear raffia year-round, the UK’s rainy, unpredictable weather isn’t forgiving. So, when I spotted the Charlotte Midi Drawstring in Oxblood while scrolling through Instagram, it immediately felt like my soon-to-be seasonal staple. I couldn’t help but notice the chic girls on my feed all carrying the same bag, and to my delight, it’s from a brand Kate Middleton loves - and one I’ve been obsessing over myself.
Strathberry www.strathberry.com
The Charlotte Midi Drawstring in deep Oxblood is the kind of bag you’ll reach for all season. Soft nappa leather, a side drawstring, and the iconic Strathberry bar make it easy to wear as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or clutch, perfect with jeans, dresses, or pretty much anything.
What really caught my eye was the rich, deep Oxblood hue. It’s everything autumn feels like, from crisp evenings to mulled wine in hand. It’s hands-down my favourite season, and this bag somehow makes every outfit feel effortlessly elevated, whether I’m in jeans and a tee or a dress. And if you’re after a chic alternative to the Loewe Flamenco, this is absolutely it.
If Strathberry isn’t on your radar yet, it really should be. The Scottish label, founded in 2013, has quickly become a cult favourite thanks to its signature metal bar and effortlessly chic, totally wearable designs. Think timeless bags that make any outfit feel a little more elevated, with the quality you’d expect from luxury brands, but without breaking the bank. It has the same appeal as Polène and DeMellier. And yes, it’s got the royal seal of approval too; both the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, and the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, have been spotted carrying it. Oh, and in 2023, Sarah Jessica Parker teamed up with the brand on the Osette range, firmly cementing Strathberry as a modern classic we’re all obsessed with.
Strathberrywww.strathberry.com
It also comes in a mini version, perfect for nights out or when you want to travel light. The toggle keeps your essentials secure.
The Charlotte Midi Drawstring takes cues from Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, but it’s anything but traditional. With a side drawstring, it effortlessly morphs from a sleek crossbody to a polished clutch (we need that kind of versatility in our wardrobes), while buttery-soft nappa leather makes carrying it feel completely effortless. The iconic Strathberry music bar (my absolute favourite feature of Strathberry's bags) is miniaturised for subtle elegance and uniqueness, and the drawstring toggles keep your essentials secure.
Shop: Strathberry’s Charlotte Midi in Equally Gorgeous Colourways
Strathberrywww.strathberry.com
If Oxblood is your autumn statement, Taupe is your all-year neutral hero. It goes with literally everything, think jeans and a tee, tailored trousers, or your go-to blazer and never looks out of place.
Strathberrywww.strathberry.com
Black is always a mood. The Charlotte Midi in Black is sleek, sophisticated, and basically a wardrobe MVP. It’s perfect for those days when you want a bag that’ll work with everything from your 9-to-5 power outfit to drinks after work.
Strathberrywww.strathberry.com
A rich, warm brown that feels like autumn in a bag, it’s the perfect alternative to Oxblood for anyone looking for a slightly softer, cosier option. The suede texture adds a luxe, tactile touch to even the simplest outfits, and it’s surprisingly versatile; you can pair it with jeans and chunky knits or a silk midi dress.
Anne Lora Scagliusi is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia with over a decade of international experience. She began her career in Dubai, covering major fashion events and global trends, and her work has appeared in Vogue, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour. Now based between Italy and the UK, Anne is rarely seen without one of her signature Self-Portrait dresses and believes that great style should be as practical as it is polished, especially when parenting a toddler.