When Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel met, there was an instant recognition of shared aesthetics (read trendy, cool and tasteful). Mansur, from LA, is a Rhode Island Design alumna, and Gavriel, from Germany, has a degree in fashion design from the University of Bremen. The two first met at a The XX concert in Los Angeles in 2010, and given the dearth of bags that were high on functionality with modern, fuss-free design, they decided to take matters into their own hands and launched the already-cult label in 2012.
Current code
In their Spring/Summer 2015 collection, Mansur Gavriel introduced two new materials — canvas and tumbled leather, along with the addition of a smaller version of the mini bucket bag and a flat envelope clutch. The tumbled leather tote provides a softer feel, while the canvas bags appeal to the younger lot, especially since the pricing is even lower than usual.
Second skin
It’s the genuine leather (which the duo swear by) that adds value, and the natural wear-and-tear on the hide is accepted with a sense of pride rather than scorned for its imperfections. The tanning that will gradually occur over time as you use the bag means it grows old with you and becomes a part of your life. The girls also have our vote for their not-so-seasonal approach to fashion.
More for less
When the debut collection made its way to stores in June 2013, it was an instant hit. The almost-too-good-to-be-true simplicity coupled with a fun choice of brights is what sets a Mansur Gavriel piece apart. With a surprisingly attainable price for high-quality vegetable-tanned leather, it’s no wonder the label is a hit among those looking for a staple that is luxe, but free of screaming logos.
Insider fave
Blogger Garance Doré swears by the black bucket bag which, incidentally, is their best-selling number, while Kirsten Dunst, Miranda Kerr and Emma Watson have joined the ever-growing list of celebrities to own one. Mansur Gavriel is now a must-have (both for its looks and functionality) for every discerning editor, blogger and style star on the street.
