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Leather & Lies: The Best and Worst Bags of 2024

Explore the best and worst bags of 2024 in our 'Leather and Lies' review. Discover craftsmanship, value, and surprises in this ultimate leather bag ranking by Tanner Leatherstein

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What's Inside

From dissecting hidden gems to exposing hyped flops, 2024 has been a wild ride for leather bags. We’ve seen some incredible pieces that redefined value and craftsmanship, while others fell short of expectations. This year has been all about exploring bags that make a real impact, whether for their top-tier quality or, unfortunately, their disappointing performance. So let’s dive into the best—and the worst—bags of 2024. You won’t believe what made the list!


The Top Five Best Value Bags of the Year


1. Stow London


When it comes to value, Stow London takes the top spot without a doubt. Dissecting their bag made from Mozart leather, sourced from an elite tannery in Barcelona, was pure joy. The quality of the leather alone made this one an easy win. It’s no surprise that Stow London continues to impress, as their focus on premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship really shines through. Hands down, my top value of the year!


2. The Horse


The Horse galloped in last minute as the final bag I dissected in 2024, and it’s earned its place as a strong second on the list. What I love about this brand is its ability to combine durability with style. The leather, which has stood the test of time, continues to wow me. The Horse’s bags not only offer great value but also the kind of timeless elegance that will last for years.


3. Strathberry Nano Tote


The Strathberry Nano Tote made a strong impression with its compact design and impressive craftsmanship. It’s tiny but mighty! This little beauty stole the show for its impeccable craftsmanship and the quality of the leather, which, once again, comes from that very same tannery in Barcelona. It’s one of those bags that proves you don’t need to sacrifice quality for size. Strathberry truly nailed it with this one.


4. Songmont Luna


Songmont Luna took the fourth spot on my list, and for good reason. It’s a true heart-stealer, combining elegant form with gorgeous leather. I'm still on the hunt to uncover the tannery behind that beautiful hide, as it has a soft, luxurious feel that elevates the entire bag. The Luna is a wonderful example of how leather goods can blend modern design with classic quality.



5. Leo et Violette—A Parisian Gem


The new and fresh approach from Leo et Violette caught my attention this year, and they certainly deserve a place on this list. With their exceptional quality at a price that doesn’t carry a hefty Parisian markup, Leo et Violette proves that France isn't just about glamour; it’s about true artisanship and value too. The brand’s approach to design and pricing is something I’ll be keeping an eye on, as it’s clear they’re making waves in the industry.


The Top Three Disappointments of the Year


Not everything was sunshine and smooth leather, unfortunately. Here are the top three bags that left me underwhelmed in 2024.


1. Prada Mini Cleo


The Prada Mini Cleo was a year-long mystery that ended with a sad conclusion: it’s simply not worth it. I went in hoping to see the magic that Prada is known for, but what I found was a bag that didn’t live up to its price tag or the brand's usual craftsmanship. Save your coins, my friends—this one was a disappointment from start to finish.


2. Jacquemus Bambino


The Jacquemus Bambino was another letdown, and I’ll be honest: I questioned whether it was even made in Italy. The leather felt flimsy, and the stitching was off in places. For a brand that touts itself as synonymous with French luxury, this bag failed to deliver. It’s hard to justify the price when the quality doesn’t match the expectations.


3. Aupen


And then there was Aupen. At first, this budget-friendly bag seemed like a hit—great value, lovely design, and solid craftsmanship. But as I delved deeper, I found some concerning tactics that soured the experience. After publishing my video sharing my findings, Aupen has made some improvements, including addressing issues with their website. I’ll be keeping an eye on them in 2025, hoping they can turn things around.



Looking Forward to 2025


As we wrap up 2024, I can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store. There’s always something new to discover in the world of leather bags—whether it’s a hidden gem or a hyped flop. I’ll continue to dissect the good, the bad, and everything in between, so you don’t have to waste your time on bags that aren’t worth it.


Thank you for exploring the Leatherverse with me, one dissection at a time. Here’s to more discoveries, surprises, and value in 2025! Cheers to a happy new year, my friends!


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