The art of travelling in style was something that the late Andre Leon Talley (editor at large of US Vogue) was passionate about, and his stylish carry-on luggage collection was certainly legendary. At the Christie’s auction of his estate in 2023, there were over 50 pieces of Louis Vuitton hand luggage, limited edition suitcases and dozens of the iconic Vuitton trunks. Travelling light was not something Talley believed in, but carrying the right kind of luggage has become a style statement.
From lightweight cabin bags to hand-woven leather totes, here are some of the best pieces of stylish carry-on luggage that can hold your in-flight essentials without compromising on style.
This is Stelar
Handmade in Bali and woven in their signature super-soft nappa leather, lined with cotton canvas, the Saroka Leather Weekender bag comes in a variety of colourways. Designed to be both lightweight and robust with a detachable jacquard shoulder strap, the clue is in the name. The perfect weekend bag. Shown here in “Matcha”, which can be ordered via the website. Shop here.
Antler
The new Icon Stripe Cabin Suitcase by British brand Antler is made from recycled polycarbonate, which is also water-resistant. Available in eight colourways, shown here in mustard yellow – a carry-on bag in a colour that you simply can’t leave behind. Shop here.
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Louis Vuitton
The iconic LV trunk has been sized down for a slightly more convenient way to travel with the Rolling Trunk Luggage in Monogram canvas and leather. With two combination locks and a cleverly designed main compartment with a zipped pocket and a removable divider, the ultimate statement luggage. Shop here.
La Double J
For a last-minute, hop on a plane for a weekend kind of trip, this large Divine Tote Bag in dark green by La Double J is fun and can double up as a beach bag. Handmade in Italy from canvas and with leather details, this tote bag comes with energy-amplifying charms attached. A light packing essential. Shop here.
Carl Friedrik
The new hybrid Carry-On X bag from Carl Friedrik has an aluminium frame and 360-degree spinner wheels for easy manoeuvrability. This very chic colour combination of dark olive and chocolate is our favourite. Shop here.
Metier
Designed for a longer getaway, the Nomad Weekender by Metier has a comfortable shoulder strap and a hidden magnetic front pocket with card slots and a passport holder to access travel essentials. Made from their signature soft Italian suede, the Weekender has become a cult travel bag, the bag of choice for the understated traveller. Shop here.
Harper Collective
Crafted from reclaimed ocean waste, including fishing nets and recycled landfill waste, the Cabin 2.0 comes in 4 colours. Shown here in copper colour with black hardware, each of the suitcases is lined with Barbour-quilted lining, a nod to the heritage of this innovative British brand. Shop here.
Prada
The Linen blend duffle bag from Prada is the perfect jet to yacht option. For travellers who really do just want to pack swimwear and a pair of sunglasses for a quick weekend away. With an embroidered Prada logo and a removable shoulder strap, this lightweight carry-on bag can double up as a very chic sports bag too. Shop here.
Floyd
Inspired by the skateboarding culture of Venice Beach in the seventies, this luggage brand, set up by friends with a background in fashion, was established over 20 years ago. The offbeat, colourful cases with skateboarding wheels and a bright orange interior have a dedicated following of fans. This is the Floyd Junior in Vegas Green, one of the four new colours, designed for short two-night trips. Shop here.
Briggs & Riley
The Global 53cm Carry-On Expandable Spinner from Briggs & Riley comes in four colourways (shown here in Hunter colour). With travel-smart advantages like external phone charging and easy access pockets for checkpoint essentials, as well as complimentary monogramming. Shop here.
