The seasons are changing and it seems that my personal taste is changing as well. I’m a self-proclaimed logo lover, but lately, I have been gravitating towards minimalistic bags made with superior materials. This change in my handbag preference has been gradual, but I believe the root of it to be Mark Cross handbags. Specifically, Mark Cross handbags on the arm of Kate Beckinsale, but I digress. The more I see Mark Cross bags online, the more I would like to have one for myself, the styles are so striking. After taking a deep dive into the brand’s unique history, I’ve realized how special Mark Cross is. They create exquisite, timeless handbags that I’ve been obsessively pining over for the last six months.
Established in Boston in 1845, Mark Cross holds the title of America’s first luxury leather goods brand. Originally the brand, named after founder Henry W. Cross’ son Mark, focused on creating the best leather goods for horse and buggies. The brand boasts an extensive and rich history throughout the twentieth century, including befriending the likes of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, and Pablo Picasso (if that isn’t an interesting factoid, I don’t know what is!). Mark Cross expanded internationally and experienced great success, being worn by Grace Kelly in an Alfred Hitchcock film and adding handbags, luggage, and evening bags to its repertoire. Although the brand successfully expanded and made a name for itself, Mark Cross experienced changing hands and leadership quite frequently, and subsequently closed its doors in the 1990s. Luckily for all of us, the brand relaunched in 2011 and has been thriving ever since.
Mark Cross handbags have a timeless vintage aesthetic, drawing inspiration for its current designs from the brand’s own rich heritage. Because of the lack of large logos or branding, these bags fly under the radar but have become my obsession because of their immaculate craftsmanship. Delightfully simple but never boring, Mark Cross bags make a statement on their own. I love history and find the story behind Mark Cross to be so captivating, only adding to my desire to own a Mark Cross bag.
With a multitude of styles, sizes, colors, and rich leathers to pick from, it’s nearly impossible to narrow it down to just one (which is the main reason I haven’t bitten the bullet just yet). So far I am leaning towards purchasing the Laura Shoulder bag, it just ticks all the boxes for me aesthetically and functionally…but I also love the Grace Shoulder bag. With so many options, it feels impossible to pick.
Do you own a Mark Cross bag? I’d love to hear about your experience with the brand!
Mark Cross Laura Shoulder Bag ($2,357)
Mark Cross Grace Small Shoulder Bag ($2,295)
Mark Cross Murphy Small Leather Bucket Bag ($2,195)
Mark Cross Foldover Shoulder Bag $1,995)
Mark Cross Twist Lock Tote Bag ($2,595)
Gorgeous bags. I especially love the Laura.
I saw an amazing collection at Harrod’s in London. They are so cute. But that price tag is tough.
They look nice but the price tag is too high for what you’re getting in terms of fashion power.
Love, love, love! Snagged the one I wanted off of The Outnet because yes, agreed, it is a stiff price tag:)
About time they’ve been featured properly.
Also look at Aspinal of London. Tasteful bags in the $400 – $900 range.
I ordered the red crocodile Ava bag from them last night after seeing your comment. I also really like the Lottie style, but figured I’ll start small (and more inexpensively) with the Ava which was on sale and go from there. I’m looking forward to getting it delivered next week and checking it out in person.
Will take a closer look at Aspinal of London!
The “Lottie” are nice everyday bags. Come in different colors and finishes.
Mark Cross stuff wears like iron. I have a small logo suitcase that’s fifty years old and still going strong. they also made a logo camera bag at the same time which I used for years. and I could kick myself for letting it go.
I’d wanted one for yeeeeeears and I finally saved up and got a small grace bag in a metallic gunmetal. I am OBSESSED. The quality is magnificent, the size is perfect, the color gives me life. Two thumbs way up. Five stars. Ten out of ten. Couldn’t recommend the brand more highly.
I’ve been admiring since relaunch in 2011, it’s great to hear that you love it. I may finally get a small Grace.
Do it! But definitely take a look at the sale section on his site and on Saks (that’s where I got mine) because when he discontinues colors you can get it for a much more reasonable price. Still bananas, but more reasonable. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine. 🙂
Thanks, I’ll wait for winter sale!