This weekend, I committed to providing a comprehensive review of the Vancouver bag from the DeMellier collection. For those still undecided about this particular model, I hope my insights prove useful.

DeMellier is a rapidly expanding, award-winning contemporary handbag brand rooted in London. It was founded by Mireia Llusia-Lindh, a Harvard Business School alumna who transitioned from a strategic advisor in the fashion industry to a designer with a passion for fashion innovation. Her goal was to redefine how people perceive and use accessories like handbags. From the outset, Mireia aimed to differentiate DeMellier by creating uncompromised products. I am a strong advocate of female-led and eco-friendly brands, so before delving into my review, I’d like to highlight the key principles of DeMellier that resonated with me and reinforced my admiration for their handbags.

1. Empowering Women
   DeMellier’s handbags are crafted by women for women. Mireia and her all-female design team prioritize the needs and desires of the incredible women who will carry their pieces. Each bag is intended to make women feel special and confident.
2. Sustainability
   My appreciation for DeMellier deepened with their dedication to ethical production, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly operations. Their bags are handcrafted in southern Spain by local artisans using the finest Italian and Spanish leathers. The materials are chosen for their sustainability, with DeMellier collaborating only with certified tanneries and reputable factories that ensure fair wages and safe working conditions. Their collections feature smooth, small-grained, grained, croc, or lizard-effect leather, and summer designs include plastic-free raffia and 100% natural palm leaf baskets.
3. A Bag, a Life
   DeMellier was established with a vision to innovate, and a notable initiative is their charity program. With every purchase, they fund a set of lifesaving vaccines and treatments for a child in need. More details about this charitable effort in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages can be found on their website.
4. Timeless Designs
   During my low-buy-year challenge in 2022, I aimed to streamline my handbag collection to only include designs and brands I trust and will use for years. DeMellier’s bags fit this criterion perfectly; they are modern, yet timeless, and built to last.

I discovered DeMellier’s designs in early 2020. The Venice Mini bag caught my eye, but I ultimately chose the minimalist Vancouver in black-grained leather. The quality and design impressed me immediately upon arrival. It came exquisitely packaged in an elegant black paper bag with the DeMellier logo, along with a dust bag, a thank you card, leather care instructions, and return information. They offer free shipping and returns for all orders in the UK and USA, and for orders over £200 in the EU and the rest of the world.

The Vancouver bag quickly became a favorite due to its practicality, versatility, and timeless appeal. My only regret was not opting for a lighter color, as my collection at the time was predominantly black. In November 2021, I rectified this by purchasing the same model in a smooth caramel/toffee shade. I found myself using the caramel version more frequently, so during my seasonal closet declutter, I decided to keep only this one.

Detailed Review of the Vancouver in Toffee Smooth Leather

Leather
The packaging was, once again, beautifully done. The leather quality was immediately apparent. The smooth leather in a deep toffee shade quickly became a staple. DeMellier describes this leather as having a subtle shine, which enhances its elegance without being overly glossy. In my experience, the smooth leather proved more durable and less prone to scratches compared to the grained leather.

Color
The photos in today’s review are unfiltered, showing the true toffee shade in natural light. It’s a versatile color that complements both cool and warm tones, with no major issues like color transfer. After 1.5 years of regular use, the leather has softened slightly at the edges, but this is acceptable wear and tear.

Interior
The Vancouver is lined with sustainable black cotton (30% recycled, 70% cotton). It features a spacious main compartment, a zip pocket for essentials, and a smaller front compartment.

Dimensions

• Width: 23cm/9″
• Height: 18cm/7″
• Depth: 7cm/3″

Capacity

• Front compartment: iPhone, AirPods, tissues.
• Main compartment: large wallet, sunglasses, keys, mirror/powder, lipgloss, perfume, Kindle Paperwhite, small snack.
• Zip pocket: cardholder, money.

Logo & Hardware
The hardware is high-quality, with a subtle gold finish that complements daily jewelry without being gaudy. The DeMellier logo is discreet, and the bag’s closure is secure without any squeaking.

Design
The Vancouver’s minimalistic design is both classic and functional. With an adjustable strap, it can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag. It pairs well with monochromatic outfits and casual clothing alike.

Price
The Vancouver bag is currently priced at €445, slightly up from €425 in May 2020. This increase is understandable given rising costs of materials, production, and transport. In my view, the quality justifies the price, making it a worthwhile investment. The Vancouver also serves as a more affordable alternative to high-end bags like the Hermés Constance or Celine Classic.

For more details on the Vancouver in Deep Toffee Smooth, DeMellier, and their other collections, check their website.

Pros of the Vancouver Model

• Ethical production
• Sustainable, high-quality materials
• Charity initiative
• Classic, timeless design
• Fair price
• Lightweight and comfortable for daily use
• Easy-to-clean cotton lining
• Unique, niche brand appeal
• Available in multiple colors and textures

Cons
Despite my love for the Vancouver bag, a few minor points stand out. The soft material can scratch, but this is expected with smooth leather. Using a handbag shaper can help maintain its shape. The closure mechanism works best with items in the front pocket, but it stays securely closed once latched. A small back pocket would be a practical addition for items like a phone or parking ticket, though this is a minor wish rather than a significant drawback.

Overall, I highly recommend the Vancouver bag for its quality, design, and ethical values. It’s a versatile accessory that I look forward to using in new ways throughout the spring and summer.