OK, I admit it: I have a weakness for handbags. From tiny clutches to ridiculously oversized totes, I love finding that perfect accessory to finish an outfit and carry all my essentials.

Over the last few years, designer 'it' bags have become coveted items. These bags cost more than a month's rent and food combined, but is it really worth it? Fans will argue that a designer bag is a 'work of art'... but doesn't it lack originality when every other girl is lusting after the exact same Alexa? Even worse when an entirely new 'must have' is only ever a few weeks away.

To me, a handmade bag - with its inevitable unique qualities - holds far more artistic value than any designer offering. Here are five beautiful eco-friendly bags to prove my point!

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Emma Gordon
London-based designer Emma Gordon creates stunning handmade evening bags, perfect for weddings and glamorous events. Add this beautiful floral clutch to your collection for £55.

 

 

 

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VV Amore
VV Amore began with a dream to create the perfect bag – the right size and shape, practical and fashionable, while maintaining the originality you don’t find on the highstreet. The cute striped handles on this mini handbag, £55, is sure to turn heads.

 

 

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Susannah Hunter
These stunning handmade bags by Susannah Hunter might be a little on the costly side, but the combination of colourful leather designs, silver fittings and velvet lining is almost too hard to resist. This floral design costs £540.

 

 

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Pierro Studios
We all know plastic bags are a bad idea, so why not stock up on reusable (and stylish) canvas shoppers? Pierro Studios offers a variety of silkscreen printed products, including this lovely bag for $38.

 

 

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Dr Bean’s Bags
Each of Dr Bean’s bags is handmade from natural fabrics and lovingly embellished with quotes and phrases. Inspired by “eccentricities of our English heritage”, this summery canvas bag features a quote from Alice In Wonderland. Buy it now for £46.

 

 

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More from Made By Hand
Made By Hand: Jewellery
Made By Hand: Bags

About the author
Nikki Walker is a freelance writer from South Wales, and considers herself a 'shopaholic with a conscience'. While she loves filling her home and wardrobe with lots of pretty things, she never lets this affect her desire to be green. In her monthly eco column, Nikki shares the very best in handmade items, from fashion and accessories to home decorations. Mass production has never looked so unattractive!