A great handbag is a mix of fashion, functionality, and craftsmanship. When looking for a high-quality handbag that lasts for years, more and more Canadians are turning to Canadian brands that make handbags domestically with ethical production methods.
Companies designing and making handbags in Canada range from artisanal companies to large, well-known brands. In this article, we highlight some of these great Canadian handbag companies to get you started on your search for your next great Canadian handbag.
Canadian Handbags
Matt & Nat 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Overseas
Where To Buy: Online and in stores
Key Details:
- Candian company
- Uses vegan materials
Matt & Nat is a Canadian brand whose products are widely available both in Canada and other countries. They are known for their commitment to vegan, cruelty-free handbags made using sustainable materials such as cork, suedes, and recycled materials. All Matt & Nat handbags are designed in Montreal, QC, but production is outsourced to overseas partners. Despite not being made in Canada, Matt & Nat handbags are a worthy choice for consumers looking for vegan options.
Herschel 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Internationally
Where To Buy: Online and in stores
Key Details:
- Founded by two brothers
- Designed in Vancouver
Herschel was founded by brothers Jamie and Lyndon Cormack in 2009. The company is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, where all its products are designed. While many people will know Herschel for its backpacks, not as many people know that they also make handbags. The company’s handbags are designed with the same principles in mind as their popular backpacks: they are stylish yet functional and durable.
Espe 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Internationally
Where To Buy: Online and select retailers
Key Details:
- Canadian-owned company
- Vegan handbags
Espe is a proudly Canadian company based in Toronto, Ontario, where all its products are designed before being manufactured by trusted partners internationally. Their handbags are all made with cruelty-free, vegan materials, offering an alternative to leather bags. Espe’s handbags often feature bold colours and creative motifs and are durable, lightweight, and environmentally conscious.
Amy Steele Bags 🍁
Manufacturing Location: North Bay, Ontario
Where To Buy: Online
Key Details:
- Handmade, one-of-a-kind handbags
- Made in Ontario
Amy Steele Bags is a small Canadian company operating from North Bay, ON. It was founded by Amy herself in 2006 when she decided to turn her passion for handbags into a business. She makes all the handbags in-house and releases new collections each year. In addition to the ready-to-wear options, Amy offers custom-made handbags.
Trace of Grey Designs 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Where To Buy: Online and Vancouver gallery & workshop
Key Details:
- Canadian, female-owned company
- Handmade leather handbags
Trace of Grey Designs is run by Monique Ouellette, who makes a range of leather goods in Vancouver, including handbags, totes, wallets, and accessories. All these items are crafted either in small batches or to order, using high-quality hides and durable hardware. Trace of Grey Designs has a gallery and workshop in Vancouver where customers can come in, browse, and even chat to Monique about the creative process.
Boutique of Leathers & Open Road 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Canada and globally
Where To Buy: Online and in stores
Key Details:
- Canadian-owned company
- Durable leather handbags
Boutique of Leathers & Open Road is a Canadian company founded in 1971. It is based in Calgary, AB, where their handbags and other leather goods are designed. However, not all their items are made in Canada, so check product information for manufacturing details. Their handbags, which combine style with practical durability, are made with durable leather and hardware and reinforced stitching.
MADETHEMAP 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Montreal, Quebec and elsewhere
Where To Buy: Online
Key Details:
- Canadian-owned company
- Handbags made/printed in Canada
MADETHEMAP is a Canadian company manufacturing clothing and fashion accessories, including handbags. The company is based in Montreal, QC, but note that some products are not made in Canada, so check product details for manufacturing information. Their handbags feature Canadian-themed prints and are a great option for those who want to display their Canadian roots. In addition to handbags, MADETHEMAP offers a range of clothing and other accessories.
BEDI Studios 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Montreal, Quebec and Toronto, Ontario
Where To Buy: Online and selected stores
Key Details:
- Canadian-owned and operated company
- Handbags made in Canada
BEDI Studios is a Canadian company making handbags and other items from a range of upcycled materials obtained from, for example, seat belts, airline seats, furniture, and fishnets. The company is committed to using discarded materials and helping to clean up the planet one product at a time. The founder of BEDI is also the man behind the vegan handbag company Matt & Nat.
Stolen Riches 🍁
Manufacturing Location: Toronto, Ontario
Where To Buy: Online and select stores
Key Details:
- Canadian-owned company
- Established in 1915
Stolen Riches is a heritage Canadian company, having been established in Toronto, ON, in 1915. The company crafts high-quality leather goods, which are primarily designed for men but with many designs appealing across genders. Their bags are made to last, combining features such as premium leathers, durable hardware, UV- and rot-resistant stitching, and hand-painted edges.
