10 Cocktail Bags from Local Designers to Buy Now

Admit it, the best part about heading out is dressing up. If you have plans of going out on the town or attending a fancy soiree looking fabulous, well, why not complete your look with a gorgeous locally made bag? These little showstoppers not only represent your love for proudly Filipino things but are truly well-designed and well-made. Shop for them now and head out in style. 

Bea Valdes

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A post shared by BEAVALDESDESIGN (@beavaldesdesign) on Jul 30, 2019 at 12:31am PDT

Bea Valdes’ sculptural handmade bags are always easy on the eyes. This one in bold black, teeming with shiny beads, comes with a large hoop as a handle. Consider this as your bag and accessory in one. Arm candy, indeed.

SHOP NOW: beavaldes.com

Lally Dizon

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A post shared by Lally Dizon (@lallydizon_mnla) on May 3, 2019 at 9:17pm PDT

This luxe Saddle Bag from Lally Dizon flaunts a striking color combination of purple python and gray snakeskin. It definitely adds a little edge to any evening outfit, and the tiny saddle gleams with minimalist glamour.

SHOP NOW: Saddle Bag, lallydizon.com

Zarah Juan

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Boldly geometric with its rectangular body and brown beaded cross-body strap, this Zarah Juan bag strays away from the designer’s typically candy-colored confections but doesn't fail to impress. It nonetheless embraces Filipino heritage as this masterpiece was created by the Maranaos.

SHOP NOW: Inquire through the brand's Instagram account here

Aranáz

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Whether you prefer nudes or blacks, this solihiya-woven leather clutch bag from Aranáz is chic and versatile. Its understated appeal can take you from the office to your gala. Plus, carrying this around pretty much feels like taking a piece of the tropics with you.

SHOP NOW: Nicole clutch, aranaz.ph

Mark Bumgarner

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When the party’s in full swing, the least you would want to worry about is holding your bag. Why not go hands-free by choosing one (or all) of Mark Bumgarner’s Poppy belt bags in stingray leather? It comes in a rainbow assortment, so you’re sure to choose one that makes you happy. 

SHOP NOW: Poppy belt bag, bumgarnerstudios.com; Also available at Greenbelt 5 and Powerplant Mall

Beatriz

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A post shared by Beatriz Accessories (@beatriz_accessories) on Aug 30, 2019 at 8:16pm PDT

This brand’s cheery pieces highlight painterly patterns that look almost as if an artist used the bag as his canvas. This sleek square clutch bag features a lovely combination of navy blue and powder blue, punctuated with pink and orange—an elegant use of color.

SHOP NOW: Inquire through 0917.858.8905 or [email protected]

Joanique

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Joanique’s products are always full of character and often feature an oddly charming face. This hand-carved wooden minaudière from the Maskara collection features a black and white design, and it's a quirky way to brighten up your outfit.

SHOP NOW: Datu bag, joanique.com

Neil Felipp

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A post shared by Neil Felipp (@neilfelipp) on Jul 1, 2019 at 9:31pm PDT

Best for sophisticated events that are a little more formal, this minaudière by Neil Felipp was inspired by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, The Kiss. By the looks of it, this is definitely an artwork to behold. Pair it with a neutral-toned outfit to make it stand out. 

SHOP NOW: NeilFelipp.com; Aum By Paul Syjuco, Manila and Quezon; Holicow Gallery Store, Cebu

Tali Handmade

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While this is called a ‘fan clutch,’ it isn’t for cooling purposes but it does look terribly cool and chic. This handmade straw bag comes in various colorways, too, so you can add a festive Filipino touch to your evening ensembles. 

SHOP NOW: Bita fan clutch, talihandmade.com

Rags2Riches

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Another little item that can take you from day to night is this Pusô bag from Rags2Riches. It features raffia floral embroidery and beadwork, and is handmade by their artisans. Although this lies on the summery side of the spectrum, it doesn’t hurt to inject a little sunny flair to an evening look for a change.

SHOP NOW: Pusô bag, thingsthatmatter.ph