I’m a DeMellier-Obsessed Fashion Editor—Trust Me, This Is the One to Buy

Sofia Piza

After run-testing four different styles, this Stockholm Shoulder bag is a true winner

Scroll through social media, and you’re likely to spot a fashionable face carrying one of DeMellier’s signature styles. Sleek and ready for everyday wear, the brand has become a firm favourite, with celebrities and royals among its biggest fans.

But with so many styles to choose from, which DeMellier bag is actually worth investing in? Luckily for you, I’ve road-tested four different styles, and I can confirm the Stockholm Shoulder has come out on top. With its elongated silhouette, considered details, and spacious interior, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to carry a lot without the bulk of an XL handbag. Here’s everything you need to know before adding it to your basket.

Meet DeMellier’s Stockholm Shoulder Bag:

One of the brand’s most popular silhouettes, this iteration from the Stockholm bag family comes in a clean east-west silhouette intricately designed to sit comfortably just below the shoulder. Available in four finishes and seven colours, the design stays true to DeMellier’s signature minimalist aesthetic.

Made from 14 individual pieces of leather, I especially love the elongated handles, as more often than not, I struggle with straps that don’t sit comfortably or slip down when I wear winter jackets. So I appreciate how comfortably these sit, especially now that we’re starting to break out our bulkier layers.

About The Stockholm:

As for first impressions, I was surprised at how soft the handbag felt. And while fine-grain leather has a lovely finish, it can be prone to scratches. Though I didn’t notice any significant scratches during my time with it, it’s worth bearing in mind in case you, like me, are not always the most careful with your handbags at all times.

I opted for the Bordeaux fine-grain version, which came in a rich oxblood hue perfect for year-round styling. From trousers and a structured blazer to jeans, a T-shirt, and a flannel overshirt, it added a polished finish to just about every outfit I paired it with. If size is a concern, the bag measures 34cm wide and 17cm high, so it fits the essentials, but as you’ll learn, it’s not necessarily designed as an all-in-one work bag, but rather a compact companion for when you’re carrying only the basics.

Everything You Can Fit In The Stockholm Shoulder Bag:

The wide east-west design fits more than you’d expect, although some items, like a water bottle, are better laid horizontally. If you’re looking for your next work bag, I’d recommend sizing up to DeMellier’s original Stockholm silhouette, which comfortably accommodates a laptop up to 16 inches.

That said, after two weeks of testing, the Stockholm Shoulder quickly became my go-to for weekends and daily errands. It carried all of my essentials without the need to lug around a bigger bag. This was especially useful as I spend a lot of time running around from appointment to appointment for my job, so having a compact bag was extra handy (no pun intended).

This is everything I took with me:

iPhone 17 Pro Max
Cardholder
16oz water bottle
Small toiletries pouch
Fussy mini deodorant
Sunglasses with their respective case
Travel perfume

Final thoughts

As far as DeMellier bags go, the Stockholm Shoulder is not one to overlook. Balancing understated elegance with practicality, it’s a versatile design that works for weekend plans and everyday errands. Rooted in craftsmanship and designed for the modern person, while keeping a mid-luxury price point, it’s no wonder the brand has cemented itself as a go-to for investment-worthy accessories.