From 9 to 5 and 5 to 9, The Best NYC Bags to Carry It All
We will get into the nitty-gritty of leather or canvas for all your iPhone, laptop, and lip balm needs.
There is something so satisfying about swishing through the subway, crossing the crosswalk, or booking it from building to building with a beautifully constructed bag. As the city that is literally on the go (no matter what you do), the importance of having a trusted shoulder companion to hold down anything one might need is of the utmost pertinence. Every New Yorker needs a bag.
The question is, “Where?” And your magical 1202 MAGAZINE shopping fairy is here to deliver the shops and markets that sell deliciously crafted bags for all people, regardless of gender and occupation. We will get into the nitty-gritty of leather or canvas for all your iPhone, laptop, and lip balm needs.
Branded Leather—St. Anthony’s Flea Market, 154 Sullivan St., New York, NY
Peter Bag in Blue
When I say the devil is in the details, that’s not an exaggeration. Peter, a leather worksman, operates Branded Leather. The star of his shop is a cobalt blue leather hobo tote that perfectly fits over the shoulder. However, there are many different shapes and colors of the Peter bag, making one for every type of shopper. The best part? The bags start at $35. When is the last time there was a price like that for anything in NYC? His shop can be found at the St. Anthony’s Market on Fridays. If you can’t make it, he also has online drops every Wednesday.
Verafied NYC—55 Washington St, Suite 806, Brooklyn, NY
Black Club Bag
Shopping at the Verafied New York store is for the elevated NYC it-girl, and that’s not a light statement. We are talking affordable luxury and leather with chic designs that keep the working person in mind. The bag that has been reigning over the internet is their large Club Bag. Featuring buttery leather in either black or chocolate, or suede espresso, the magnetic closure ruffles together like an oversized coin purse, adding a bit of playfulness amid the subtle silhouette.
But the best part is the insulated zippered bottom compartment that can fit a full-size laptop. For those always working on the go, this is a must-have. But never fret if you're looking for a girls' night out showstopper. Verified also carries the mini bag, most notably in zebra calf hair. To shop in person, book an appointment online. The showroom is open Tuesday through Friday, 12pm to 5pm.
Anthony Luciano—347 W. 36th St., Unit 1300, New York, NY
Robbie Tote Bag
This handbag designer doesn’t just offer a luxurious bag, but an entire experience. Anthony Luciano first launched his own collection in 2000 and continued a tradition of craftsmanship from his Italian upbringing. His inspiration drew from grandiose vintage bags, and the specialty of an evening bag—essentially what it does to the moment. But the most important part of his work is collaborating with shoppers to create a bag unique to them.
He has a ready-to-buy line and custom services for signature styles. His custom work doesn’t stop with bespoke; Luciano also provides workshops to create your own: Sip and Stitch. He leads a group setting on the steps to build the perfect bag. Shoppers can choose their own fabrics, linings, and accessories while he instructs, hands-on. And let’s not forget the flowing wine and snacks, okay!
Pierre Laborde—Grand Bazaar, 100 W. 77th St., New York, NY
New York or not, if you haven’t heard of the latest sensation at Grand Bazaar, you haven’t been living. The colorful, splotched leather and pony-hair bags went viral on TikTok but have been an integrated staple in the NYC market community. Haitian-born and NYC-led, Francis Pierre Laborde began his career with a BFA at the Fashion Institute of Technology. Still, he didn’t immediately begin building his own brand; he worked long hours as a garment sizer for a knitwear company.
His desire to design with his own intentions and style sent him back to school for accessory design, and then he began the empire that’s quickly rising. The intricate bags featuring neon cowhide and circular handles have become a quick staple at Grand Bazaar, with enthusiastic shoppers lining up hours earlier for a chance to grab the bag of their dreams (and never without an event ticket!). At the end of the day, anything is worth the ultimate statement piece, but luckily Laborde luxury ranges between $300 and $1400.
Pietro—115 W. 29th St., New York, NY
Leather is a structural foundation for building a bag that’s timeless and delicious, according to Pietro’s design ethos. And dare I say, it’s absolutely true. Founded in 1982 by Pierre Dabagh, Dabagh sought to create leather goods through manufacturing. The initial dream was to be the backbone of quality for New York designers. As the business grew, so did the ideas from the next generation of family to lead the brand.
From the minds of Alex, Alexis, and Ashley Dabagh, a line of striking but wearable bags drove Pietro from manufacturing to a handbag line. Now on to the bags: the classic Chelsea Mini delivers a punch with its structured bucket shape and top handle, coming in vibrant emeralds, soft lavenders, and wickedly fun cow calf hair. A transitional bag that finds itself running quick errands to 8pm dinner on Saturday night. I couldn’t forget the nod to NYC with its Lafayette barrel bag in the iconic orange-and-blue leather.
