This startup's vegan leather bags could fool anyone into thinking they're real - and they're all under $200

Advertisement

Sheenan

Sheenan
Sheenan, $155

Matt & Nat offers a huge variety of bags, and they all look so stylish and versatile that the availability of choices is honestly a bit of curse. In the end, I decided on the Sheenan, a mid-sized doctor bag that’s structured, polished, and great for work. I liked how stiff the body and handles were, and it was a nice change from my handbags that I’ve now realized can be too malleable to look put-together. The flat bottom of the main compartment helped keep my belongings organized, and there were just enough pockets (but not too many) for essentials like my MetroCard, keys, and office ID. It can be worn crossbody, which was my preferred method, but the straps can also be adjusted for length or removed depending on your preferred look and feel. – Connie Chen, Insider Picks reporter

Advertisement

Laverne

Laverne
Laverne, $160

The Laverne is basically the vegan magazine tote. It's deep enough for papers and notebooks, has a padded laptop pocket, and is sturdy enough to survive less-than-gentle handling. In terms of looks, the stiff body gives it a polished feel, the logo is small and inoffensive, and the color is the same beautiful dark merlot in person.

The Laverne has been a great companion the last couple of weeks. It's substantial enough to have some structure even when empty, the color is beautiful for fall, and it's a perfect mix to have a deep internal pocket that can fit a laptop and a small, unobtrusive side pocket for easy access to a cell phone or subway pass.

I prefer vertical work bags since most of my commute is spent crammed alongside other people using public transportation, and this bag has the added functional benefit of being made from a material that can remain stiff and compact and won't wither in inclement weather. – Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter

Advertisement

Mitsuko LG, Chili Brown

Mitsuko LG, Chili Brown
Mitsuko LG, $185

This weekender is the vegan version of the leather one I've always wanted. It's well-structured enough that I no longer feel the need to spend $400 on a leather alternative, which is really saying something considering that this duffel has been on my wishlist for years.

I love that the Mitsuko has a cavernous interior (which will hold at least two full days and nights worth of clothing), and that it comes with a shoulder strap I can pop on when I need and off when I want. The one gripe I have is with the zipper, which isn't as smooth as I'd like it to be, but overall I'm really impressed with this one by Matt & Nat. – Sally Kaplan, Insider Picks editor