Polene bag or alternative?

[Zeeza]

My mother has asked for a navy handbag for christmas. She likes cross body.

I think she'd like a polene un, but they don't have any navy available. It's at the top of our budget (340) for a joint present, and I don't know what the customs charge would be.

I could get a similar design from China for 140. I've never done that, and I'd prefer not to, but the real ones aren't for sale. Any thoughts?

Or have you got any suggestions for other brands?

I want something well-made but not designer designer. It's for a smartish bag, but she always has an hilarious amount with her so it has to be day bag size.

It has to be navy and crossbody and the lighter the better.

Any advice much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Don't go for the Chinese option, you'll end up disappointed.

The most similar I can think to the Polene un bag is the Mansur Gavriel lady bag, it's more expensive though but there's a secondhand one here in navy suede for around the price of the Chinese option. Since it's sold by VC professional you can return it of she doesn't like it, but obviously a short return window.

I'd otherwise would have suggested looking at APC they always have crossbody bags in Navy but I'm not sure how much they're going for in GBP these days so I'm not sure you'd get much there anymore.

Thank you. Good hints. Will check them out.

I really like Mirta for mid range handbags. Handmade in Italy and quality is excellent. Not sure of customs to UK as I'm overseas.

They have a few styles in navy. APC surplus maybe worth a look though their bags maybe too small.

Is there any particular style you like? Demellier do nice bags, I have one in navy grained leather which is a similar price or less.

This one by Parmentier could also be an option, it comes with a crossbody strap. They have a few other bags that are very similar to Polene in style but most blues are more blue than navy. They're based in Italy but taxes and duties are included in the price.

Demellier? Similar feel in designs and price point.

I got a Polene bag a year ago, I love it, and while things might have changed since there was no customs to pay.

Demellier looked beautiful, but the styles they have in navy at the moment looked very structured and formal. Very tempted by the parmentier.

Thank you all. I will do some more browsing and thinking . There's a lot to browse on mirta too!

I have the Demellier mini Venice in navy grain. I wouldn't describe it as structured, particularly. I like its internal pockets and you can fit a good amount in it for a small bag. I've had it a couple of years and it's worn well. demellierlondon.com/products/the-mini-venice-navy-grain