Luxe for Less: 5 Must-Know Local Bag Brands
These local bag brands are winning over loyal fans by offering high-quality style without the hefty price tags.
Words Luis Joaquin Gregorio
Photo courtesy of GVN, By BTG, Nicolé, Play Nice, and Ova Bazar
October 01, 2025
Photo courtesy of GVN’s Instagram (@gvnthelabel)
Local bag brands have been changing the game recently for Filipino craftsmanship and brand establishment, whether they are headed with the winds of trends or leaning towards timeless pieces, they can provide consumers with accessible pieces that are a character of their own.
A statement of innovation
Filipino bag brands that are basking in the eye of consumers recently have displayed their ability to utilize the trends on the market and resonate with the essentials of individuals in order to create an effective line of bags that caters to everyone.
Apart from their admirably varying aesthetics, they are also made with quality materials that promise durability and comfortable features that one can rely on for their personal use. Pieces from these local brands also have a reasonable price tag on them and rarely lean on the expensive side of the market, turning accessibility into one of their strengths.
Affordability remains one of the key attributes for local fashion, which is why these brands are standouts in the wide selection of bags we have today.
GVN
Leading the pack for local bags on the trendy side is GVN, advocating for bags that are colorful, functional, and of different silhouettes. GVN is grounded in catering to consumers with pieces that are very Instagrammable but highly functional.
The brand produces different bag styles, made with different materials, that are truly reminiscent of Y2K fashion meshed with a bit of contemporary aesthetics, which makes their products versatile.
Consumers who love participating in trends could opt for GVN’s wide selection of hobo bags, studded bags, and baguettes. For those who are always on the go, GVN’s functional and nylon bowler bags can fit many essentials that they’ll need for the day.
By BTG
Just like GVN, By BTG bags experiment with colors, material, and structure, which is another green flag for consumers who play with aesthetics.
By BTG’s Onigiri bag is the standout among their products. The Onigiri bag is a lightweight, water-resistant boxy tote that comes in different colors, which instantly enhances personal aesthetics. It also comes in different sizes, depending on how functional you want it to be. They also have their loaf bags and messenger bags, which are both perfect for daily use.
Nicolé
For timeless and confident quality pieces that are very accessible, you can rely on the wide selection of bags at Nicolé.
Nicolé grounds more on classic and work-friendly bag structures but doesn’t shy away from displaying hints of modern luxury. From their crossbody bags to their spacious leather totes, they advocate for affordable elegance to be seen in order to reach out to all types of consumers.
Nicolé bags can be purchased through Shopee, Lazada, and even TikTok shops, which adds to their prominence and visibility in the online market.
Play Nice
For individuals who like to play around with structure and material, Play Nice’s Takeout bags are a fun novelty statement piece that they can use to pack their essentials and also doubles as an accessory.
The Takeout bag is truly a one-of-a-kind design, appearing as a Chinese takeout box that we all knew growing up, topped with a pair of chopsticks that function as the bag’s handle. Their bags are also made from different types of vintage and deadstock fabrics with varying designs, which makes them sustainable and unique.
Ova Bazar
For the seasonal beach travels, Ova Bazar has a collection of beach bags with elevated designs made from locally sourced shells and burlap, by Filipino artisans based in Siargao.
Ovabazar’s pieces embody varying cultural tropical patterns that are very sea chic and sleek in structure. They also have a decent capacity to hold different kinds of beach essentials, promising functionality at its quality.
The reliance on local bags we have today is a testament to love for sustainability and accessibility for all Filipinos.
The recognition of these local pieces empowers the movement of loving and trusting brands that are made and nurtured by our community. It also serves as an opportunity and inspiration to other up-and-coming local businesses to find their footing and place in the market.
