7 Most Popular Bags in Shanghai, China

Took a quick trip to Shanghai and was really surprised by how many designer bags I saw on the street. I knew the luxury market was skyrocketing in China, but I had no idea almost every other person would be carrying a designer bag, both real and fake. I was also somewhat surprised by the specific styles that were taking off there; some aren’t nearly as popular in the US.

Longchamp Le Pliage Large Shoulder Tote

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The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote has taken off all over the world and it’s not hard to see why. It’s a true workhorse bag, but also very classy and effortless. When you don this bag, it seems to say you know and care about fashion, but not obsessively. You’re down-to-earth but are put-together. All that comes with the low price tag of just $145. Really a steal. If you haven’t gotten this bag yet, now is your chance here for $145.

3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Satchel Bag

3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Satchel Bag Black

I was really surprised about this being so extremely popular in China, considering I haven’t seen it that much in the US. I know it’s popular here, but not so popular that one in 10 girls carry it and most colors are sold out across all the stores…that’s a different level of insane obsession. The most popular color is Black. Very cool and chic. Also available in a range of colors, from Buff to Violet to Taupe. So many choices, so little time. Get the Black one here.

Michael Kors Selma Satchel Tote Bag

Michael Kors Selma Satchel Tote

The Michael Kors Selma Satchel has really taken off in China, in all sizes. Surprising considering it wasn’t even on my radar. However, now that I’ve seen it in real life on so many gorgeous girls, I can definitely see the appeal. It’s minimalist, great sturdy and practically rainproof leather, is the perfect size to carry around all your junk all day but isn’t massively large and heavy, and the gold logo adds the perfect subtle touch of glam. Black, red, and cognac were the most popular colors. Get yours here for $358.

There were a lot of people with the Michael Kors Mini Selma as well, which I didn’t even realize existed. It’s not only adorable because it’s mini-sized, but it’s even more functional because it’s super light and able to be carried crossbody. Hooray! A few people had it in an awesome neon yellow color, which can stand out from a mile away and certainly drew all the attention.

Michael Kors Mini Selma Crossbody Bag

I think the neon yellow color is pretty much sold out, or at least I can’t find it. Have no fear though, many other colors are available, particularly my favorite – cognac! Get yours here for only $178.

MCM Stark Backpack

MCM Stark Backpack

I’ve never even heard of the brand MCM before the trip, but it was literally everywhere in Shanghai. Everywhere. All variations and styles. I think it has something to do with J-Pop or K-Pop stars being seen with these, and the phenomenon is making its way west. Since they’re not leather (they’re coated canvas), these backpacks are relatively cheap, ranging between $600-$800 for most of the normal styles, sometimes depending on how many studs are on the bag. If you’re into this style, get yours here.

Prada Saffiano Lux Tote

Prada Saffiano Lux Tote

The Prada Saffiano Lux Tote has been so popular in China that it’s widely known as one of the most faked bags of all time. To the point where people are hesitant to buy it because it’s so ubiquitous on the street. Well, it’s so popular for a reason; it’s the epitome of a Prada classic. Classy, elegant, understated, and very practical. If you like the style, there are many colors and size variations to try. Check out your color options here at Saks, all priced at $2200.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Neverfull Tote

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Yes, just as in US, the Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote is also everywhere in China. Though many people are increasingly gravitating away from the loudness of the LV monogram, significantly more people still love it. The Neverfull Tote is one of the cheaper options in the LV line, and the bag is extremely practical and functional. A true workhorse. Get yours here from Louis Vuitton (MM size) for $1,260.

Louis Vuitton Alma BB

Louis Vuitton Alma BB

Love for the Louis Vuitton Alma BB is understandable. Hell, I’m even kind of obsessed with it. It can be handheld or just slung over you as a crossbody bag, when you can barely even feel it’s there. Perfect for all those petite girls out there, hence probably why it’s so popular in China. It’s also just adorable, like all things that are miniature versions of normal things. Also comes in a number of gorgeous colors, giving them a I-want-to-collect-them-all quality. Comes also in a variety of leathers / canvas, from Epi to Monogram Canvas, and even Ostrich leather. My favorite is definitely the Vernis, but in Epi it’s just as indestructible practically, so either way it’s a highly functional yet super adorable bag. Get the Vernis here from Louis Vuitton for $1,820.

Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag in Brandy

Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag is the LV Noe style I never knew I wanted. Actually, I never liked the bucket “Noe” style until recently. I always thought the LV monogram version looked a little too mature, but now that Mansur Gavriel has done a whole new fresh take on this style, I’m realizing this style is definitely worth a second look. It’s so unique, a little hipster bohemian and casual, but definitely still elegant at the same time. Especially in Brandy. Drool.

Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag in Brandy

Like all of Mansur Gavriel bags, you can choose the color of the lining. As with the Mansur Gavriel Leather Tote, I think the best lining color for Brandy is still raw. Something about taking a large piece of high-quality cognac leather and making into one seamless bag just gives me the fuzzies.

Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag in Brandy

The Bucket Bag comes in two different sizes, Mini or Regular. They’re not that different in size, so you really can’t go wrong with either one. Given I’m relatively tall at 5’6, I may opt for the Large size. Looks beautiful in real life. It can make the most casual outfit look well put-together, and actually is an awesome neutral that will match pretty much anything. This Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag comes in 8 different colors, all in either Mini or Regular size. Get the Regular here for $495.

Monogram Tote Bags from Mark & Graham

I am in love with Mark & Graham monogram personalized bags. Monograms have been trending lately, seen everywhere from necklaces to sweaters, so I know I’m not alone in my obsession. I love that with monogram items, you get a well-designed style that you can make uniquely yours. I only just discovered Mark & Graham, and I already have a ton of bags picked out that I. Must. Have. I love that with them, not only can you personalize via your own initials, but you can choose the color and even style of the monogram. Love, love, love. I am in deep trouble. Here are my picks.

Mark & Graham Everyday Leather Tote Bag

Mark & Graham Everyday Leather Tote Bag

We have to start with the Mark & Graham Everyday Leather Tote. This is exactly the style of leather tote I’ve been on an endless hunt for. These colors are great, I can put my own unique monogram on it, and, c’mon, just look at that thick, smooshy leather. How can anyone resist?

Mark & Graham Everyday Leather Tote Bag

Comes in 9 different colors, with 30 different monogram styles to choose from. That’s right, 30!!! That’s insane. I could spend hours just looking at the different monogram style + color combinations. I really can’t get enough. It’s appropriately named too, because this is the kind of bag I’d want to use every day. Maybe even a different color/monogram each day. Amazing. If you’d like to start obsessing over your own unique Mark & Graham tote, get it here for $199.

Mark & Graham Uptown Bag

Mark & Graham Uptown Bag

Appropriately named, this Uptown bag looks like a more “uptown” version of the Everday Leather Tote. It’s a bit more ladylike and refined, yet can still go casual. Comes in cognac, which of course is my favorite, but the gold monogram really pops well against the black as well.

Mark & Graham Uptown Bag

You have 4 monogram styles to choose from, with a choice between gold or silver monograms. Using wild boar leather, this Italian-made beauty is one to pine for. Get yours here for $375.

Mark & Graham M. G. Confidential Bag (aka Classified Bag)

Mark & Graham M. G. Confidential Bag

M.G. Confidential Bag has me completely obsessed. How chic and uber preppy is this bag?? I love it in Navy and that Taupe. You have 9 monogram styles to choose from, and this time you can even choose the color of your monogram. The vibe of the bag actually changes depending on what color monogram you choose…for example, the white above vs this hot pink against navy. Mmm mmm!

Mark & Graham M. G. Confidential Bag

How much do you love it!! Ahhhh. It has decent sized leather handles, but also comes with a long shoulder strap, which is how I imagine I’d carry this bag. Roomy enough to fit a laptop and binders, this bag isn’t just a pretty face, it’s also a serious workhorse. Just love this bag. Only $175 here from Mark & Graham.

Mark & Graham Canvas Post Tote

Mark & Graham Canvas Post Tote Bag

It’s named the Canvas Post Tote, but I don’t think it looks anything like a postman’s bag. It looks like the chicest, super preppy alternative to a backpack or work bag perfect for men or women alike. Some people may not like brown & black together, but I’m the opposite. I think these two colors look very classically chic together. Plus, love that the canvas is thick and sturdy, and the leather looks worn and vintagey. Mark & Graham really know how to work the details on these bags. Again, you can choose from many different monogram styles and colors, so go find your own unique combo! Get it here for $175.

Mark & Graham Elisabetta Slouch Handbag

Mark & Graham Elisabetta Slouch Handbag

Mark & Graham Elisabetta Slouch Handbag is probably the fanciest of the bunch. Made in Italy from calfskin leather, this luxurious bag seems much more structured in this photo than it is in real life. It’s called the Slouch handbag because it is actually very relaxed and unstructured in real life, making it perfect for any occasion from formal meetings to casual luncheons. 4 monogram styles to choose from, both gold and silver. Simple, classic, gorgeous. Get yours here for $398.

Mark & Graham North Tote

Mark & Graham North Tote

The Mark & Graham North Tote feels so Parisian to me. I can imagine this being the perfect bag to take to the farmer’s market, to buy fresh flowers in every morning, to hop down to the local cafe for some pastries and macrons with. Love the cotton chambray fabric, love the detailing on the leather shoulder straps, and love that depending on the monogram style, the bag can take on completely different personalities.

Mark & Graham North Tote

Mark & Graham North Tote

Mark & Graham North Tote

How cute right? I can imagine different monograms depending on the season, activity, or even your mood. Best of all, this tote is available for a STEAL for a price, at only $65 here from Mark & Graham.

Have you ever bought anything from Mark & Graham? Any cute bags I’ve missed? Let me know!