Since its inception in 2016, Khaite has gained a serious and stylish following for its quietly chic, minimal clothing with a devoted point of view. The brand, founded by Catherine Holstein, may have only been around a little over a decade, but it’s already become a true icon of the New York fashion scene.

When Holstein decided to launch bags in 2019, she did so by way of her first runway show in Brooklyn, pairing surreal puff sleeve gowns and romantic suede fringe jackets with easy leather totes, cool crossbodies, and chic little clutches. “I travel so much now and was having trouble finding the right bag—one that was big enough [for all of my things], or small enough to fit into the bigger bag . . . . I’m always trying to downsize,” she told Vogue at the time. Ever since then, Holstein has continued to send bags down her runways, making accessories a key focus for the brand.

Unsurprisingly, Khaite’s handbags have since become It-girl and celebrity favorites, with Katie Holmes, Jennifer Lawrence, Kendall Jenner and others showcasing the label’s streamlined, structural bags while out and about. What the label brings to the world of bags is an understanding of trends, wearability, and luxury. An element of understated elegance permeates the design, which have earned an “if you know, you know” status from fashion insiders.

Khaite manufactures its bags in Italy, using high-quality materials like pebbled leather, buttery suede, sustainably-sourced raffia, and high-drama additions like zebra-print pony hair and made-to-order exotics. The Art Deco-inspired hardware adds a jewel-like finish, plated in 18-karat gold. Read on for the most recognizable Khaite bags.

The Cate

The Cate bag is your go-to, chic lady-like top handle bag from Khaite. First introduced on the fall 2024 runway, it’s structured with a beautiful sculptural leather handle and a gorgeous artsy kiss-lock clasp. The mid-size shape makes it a good choice for both running errands or an evening event. The best part about the Cate is the variety: it comes in a range of neutral calfskin options, or linen with leather trim. And for the more adventurous, there is ornate python, glassy alligator in a variety of jewel tones, and show-stopping pony hair in luscious mustard yellow and zebra effect. It’s no wonder it’s a favorite of It-girls including Elsa Hosk.

The Blake

The Blake is Khaite’s dramatic yet understated take on the classic box bag. Think: an ultra-modern, structured compact shape with beautiful lines, finished with the signature chunky, Art Deco gold Empire hardware. Debuting in fall 2025, it’s an ideal bag for practicality. It is designed for total adaptability, with an adjustable and removable crossbody strap and an interior featuring a triple compartment and slip pocket lined in luxurious nappa lambskin. For nighttime, there’s also a clutch version of the Blake. Choose from supple calfskin in modern shades like oxblood or taupe, or leather-trimmed canvas, zebra pony hair, or sleek python.

The Lotus

The Lotus is a tried-and-true original, first debuting as a part of Khaite’s initial handbag offering in 2019. Now available in mini, small and medium, this stylish tote is inspired by the fluid look of a silk scarf, with a dainty gold toggle clasp, rounded base and thick, comfortable straps. It’s designed to be lightweight, making it a great on-the-go bag. Ruby-hued suede and chic dual-colored raffia are just a few of the fun experimental textures and hues, and there’s also a dramatic fringe version for the bold. Kendall Jenner has been seen wearing the Lotus with many chic après-ski looks.

The Audrey

Khaite’s minimalist bag icon comes in both a clutch style and a flap-top, top-handle bag. The luxurious clutch is the perfect addition to any evening wear ensemble, with its soft lines and signature elegant gold hardware; it dazzles in textures like midnight navy blue pony hair. Shades like dusty pink suede make a great case for the clutch as a daytime bag. The top-handle bag is an ideal size for everyday work or play, in pebbled leather finishes or blush suedes.

The Olivia

Model off duty It-girls like Elsa Hosk and Lily Aldrige are fans of Khaite’s Olivia bag. The slouchy, effortlessly cool hobo piece comes in mini or medium size and can be worn over the shoulder or held like a top-handle accessory. Raffia and mustard yellow iterations are ideal for spring and pair perfectly with denim, while crackled patent leather in oxblood, or chocolate brown suede are great alternatives for after hours dressing.

The Augustina

Consider the Augstina the ultimate crossbody with a cool crescent shape, designed to be slung over the body and worn close for hands-free ease. The zippered top is readily accessible, while the adjustable strap ensures you can customize the length for your height. Choose from cedar-hued suede, black pebbled leather, and natural raffia, among others.

The Simona

Perhaps one of the biggest bag trends as of late has been the elongated, east west style–and the Simona is Khaite’s very own version. Debuting for fall 2024, the Simona is a shapely sculptural wonder, built with double skinny straps, rounded sleek lines, and just the right amount of room for a bag that makes a statement without taking up too much space. Luxurious interpretations like raffia or burgundy pony hair are beautifully bold. It’s no wonder the bag has attracted fans like Olivia Rodrigo. The calfskin card pocket inside means you can also skip your wallet.