Marrying quiet luxury with mid-range pricing, add a decadent bag by Liffner to your wishlist …
When it comes to It bags, we have our favourite styles down pat. They tend to be dark brown or black, they must be made from soft, buttery leather and usually boast an interesting texture such as a suede or a croc-effect finish. As for the right size, that’s a wholly personal debate. But we always favour a carry-all that leans small but is surprisingly capacious – it’s got to be roomy enough to carry all of the essentials (by essentials, we mean more than just a phone, card and lip balm). Enter: Liffner. The Stockholm-based leather goods specialist, founded by Paulina Liffner von Sydow in 2012, has come to personify much of what we want in a bag. Its aesthetic of “expressive minimalism” feels apt for now – plus, it sits in the mid-range of labels (see similar brands DeMellier London, Savette, By Far and Mansur Gavriel) that are a doable rung on the investment scale.
Formerly known as Little Liffner, spot Liffner von Sydow’s lady bags, totes and bucket styles on the arm of the style set, particularly resonating with those who appreciate a luxurious bag with clean lines, pleasing shapes and beautiful details (sans The Row price tag). The brand has just launched its resort 26 collection, which includes playful upgrades on classic styles, with navy croc bucket bags, tiny top handle bags in unexpectedly light shades and black bowling bags that ooze a certain kind of stealth-wealth aesthetic. (Each piece is handcrafted at a family-run atelier outside of Florence, using byproduct hides and leather from LWG-certified tanneries.) We caught up with Liffner von Sydow about rejecting capsule wardrobes, her favourite handbags ever and why she wishes her fellow Scandi dressers would take her by surprise, on occasion.
Paulina Liffner von Sydow, founder of Stockholm-based brand Liffner.
What is the one hero item you’re wearing on repeat now?
A pair of jeans by Khaite.
Tell us about the best bag you’ve ever owned?
My favourite bag ever was a quirky-cool, small Marni frame clutch made from matte black rubber with patent appliqué flowers. It got stolen in a nightclub in Paris.
What is always in your handbag?
I’m disciplined and generally carry quite little. I hate a heavy handbag and have always made a point of the Liffner bags not feeling heavy. I’m the girl who can easily do a long weekend with a carry-on bag. I always carry lip balm, sunglasses and a small notebook and pencil (for sudden ideas and restless kids).
Dark brown Lady suede pushlock bag, €570; www.liffner.co.
Are there any bag trends you’re seeing right now that you think have longevity?
I think bucket bags are tried and true; an under the radar but iconic bag shape.
Which classic wardrobe pieces do you always return to for AW dressing and why?
A great coat is my key wardrobe hero. I’m always looking for a subtly interesting silhouette in a luxurious material that will age well, no synthetics. After years of obsessing over oversized men’s coats I find myself having three favourites from Loulou de Saison, By Malene Birger and Lemaire on rotation this winter that all have the same look. Each one has a slim A-line silhouette, is collarless and boasts long, narrow sleeves.
Do you believe in a capsule wardrobe? If so, what does yours include?
I don’t! I believe in collecting things that you are instinctively drawn to and love, and over time they organically turn into your personal signatures. I can think of few things more boring than a capsule wardrobe.
Navy croc belted bucket bag, €575; www.liffner.co.
What is the essence of the Scandi look?
It’s all about scaling back. Scandinavians do simplicity very well by emphasising natural beauty and restraint. Scandi style is also a bit more androgynous than American or international style, making it a bit cooler and less try-hard.
What is the signature accessory you’re seeing cool Scandi women wear now?
I see a lot of Stockholm girls wearing our oversized Suede Sprout Totes!
Are there any fashion trends amongst Scandi women right now that have surprised you?
No. I would love for Scandinavian women to surprise me and dare to stand out a bit more!
Black top handle leather bag, €675; www.liffner.co.
Do you have a personal style mantra?
Don’t settle. Buy what you really want or don’t buy anything at all.
What winter buys are currently on your wishlist?
I’m coveting an ivory chiffon maxi skirt by House of Dagmar, investing a pair of black suede point-toe ankle boots by The Row, a quartz and onyx necklace by Brazilian brand Sauer, as well as our own Pushlock Maroon clutch.
Where should we go if we’re visiting Stockholm to feel like a cool local?
Dine at Babette, Bord and Mirabelle. Try Schmaltz for deli food with a Swedish twist and À la Lo for coffee and pastries.
Dark brown suede bowling bag, €675; www.liffner.co.
What is the coolest way to dress for a winter occasion?
I love evening looks with an artsy, vintage twist in wintertime. Long skirts, tailored evening jackets; fitted but covered looks feel sexy and a little mysterious. Top off any outfit with a black vintage velvet cape.
Finish the sentence: A great handbag … gives an instant boost!
SEE MORE: Scarf Coats Day To Night Trend – 10 Styles To Try
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