Charles & Keith's affordable bags and shoes are so well-made they are truly luxurious
Good quality bags and shoes doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.
If you have not heard about the top #trending 'luxury' Charles & Keith bag, here's the TL:DR. The Internet recently went ablaze when teenager Zoe uploaded an unboxing of a Charles & Keith bag on her TikTok account “Zohtaco” with the caption "thank you dad". Nothing wrong with that, except that the netizens griped with how she referred to the S$80 Charles & Keith bag as "luxury". Charles & Keith bags are generally priced below S$200 whereas a wallet from top luxury brands generally costs around S$1,000.
As the story unfolded, many netizens came out in support of Zoe amidst the brouhaha over the definition of luxury and her excitement over an affordable bag. In a follow-up TikTok video, Zoe revealed that luxury is comparative. She said: “Your comment spoke volumes on how ignorant you seem because of your wealth. To you, an S$80 bag may not be a luxury. To me and my family, it is a lot... I can’t believe I got hate over a bag that I was so excited to have.” Indeed it's surprising and shocking how a simple 30-second video made with pure joy and excitement can generate so much hate. The video currently has 4.7 million views.
We all love a well-made, affordable handbag, especially one that does not burn a hole in our pockets. On our Shopping Inspiration page, we have, more than once, gushed over the designs and quality of Charles & Keith products and are proud to tote the local brand's bags and shoes. We did some digging and found some picks that are similar to the bag Zoe got. Some other similar models are already sold out! Read on for more deets!
Double Handle Tote Bag
Available in 4 colours
Rabbit Illustrated Tote Bag
Available in 4 colours
Osiris Swirl-Print Metallic Accent Tote
Available in 4 colours
Singapore-born brand Charles & Keith has made Singaporeans proud since its debut in 1996. The quality, style and range of products just keep getting better year on year. And the result is evident. Spotted on international celebrities and influencers like Yoyo Cao, Aimee Song, Tamara Kalinic and Tamu McPherson, the brand has come a long way since its humble shoe store in Amara Hotel Singapore. In 2021, the Gabine Saddle Bag was sold out within days of its launch. Those of you who have missed its launch, fret not. The previously sold-out Gabine Saddle Bag is coming back, again, due to popular demand. Yes, the bag was relaunched and sold out too! Available in six colours.
True to its fast-fashion roots, you will not be disappointed with Charles & Keith’s wide range of products ranging from shoes, bags, and accessories to even jewellery and kids’ products. Its style runs the gamut from classy, and quirky to trendy. There's something for everyone and at extremely reasonable price points. A quick check on its website, and you will see why the brand has over 300 stores internationally. For the quality, style and range of value-for-money products that the brand pushes out regularly, you are due for the street cred you have been coveting.
The bags, shoes, sunglasses and accessories we carry daily are extensions of our self-identity. Let these one-of-a-kind accessories do the talking as you make a splash while carving a niche for yourself at work, having a night out with the gals or enjoying a relaxing weekend with your S.O. Now that we are returning to the office more regularly, this is the best time to shop at Charles and Keith!
Shop the Bunny Capsule Collection
Charles & Keith x Disney Zootopia Collection
Koa Square Push-Lock Shoulder Bag
Available in 4 colours.
Coda Floral-Print Top Handle Hobo Bag
Bag ladies alert: Try something different
When it comes to accessories, steer away from staid and boring silhouettes and colours. These unconventional bags, in all shapes and sizes, are sure to spark joy whatever the occasion and are guaranteed to elevate your street cred.
Tip: Details are what will make your outfit pop, so be sure to pay extra attention when selecting the right ones. Accessories with one-of-a-kind designs make for great conversational starters as well.
Wren Acrylic Chain-Handle Trapeze Bag, S$79.90
Small leather goods
Who says functional items cannot come in quirky designs? These micro Gabines and phone pouches may be carried on its own or worn with another handbag.
Tip: Never sacrifice functionality for designs.
Micro Gabine Two-Tone Saddle Bag
Available in 3 colours
Aspen Ruched Phone Pouch
BFF-approved shoes
There’s no such thing as too many shoes, as Carrie Bradshaw will tell you. These pretty, comfy shoes, when paired with the right attire, can bring you from day to night.
Tip: No matter how much you love a particular pair of shoes, wear them on rotation. This helps the materials to breathe as well as allows your shoes to last longer.
Bunny Tweed Buckled Slides
Sunglasses
Keep the sun's rays at bay with a trusty pair of shades. Did you know sunglasses help you prevent the formation of crow lines formed by squinting your eyes?
Tip: Pick one in a similar colour accent as your outfit when planning a more cohesive look.
