The high street's next viral handbag rivals this £320 designer version

The high street's next viral handbag rivals this £320 designer version
Source: Daily Mail Online

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If there's one thing I've learnt from covering fashion for a living, it's that when a woven leather bag starts cropping up on my Instagram feed, it's only a matter of time before it becomes the bag of the season. And right now? All signs point to the beautifully crafted Dragon Diffusion Rosanna Shoulder Bag.

Retailing at £320, this woven leather baguette has quietly become a favourite among those in the know. It's available in 18 colours (dark brown, forest green, tan and bordo red are standouts) and each one is handwoven with incredible precision and care. No two bags are exactly alike, which only adds to the charm. There's no lining, just supple leather intricately braided together and because it's made on demand, there's an 8-10 week wait. In other words, it's the kind of piece you invest in and treasure forever.

But here's where things get interesting.

On a recent scroll through the new-in section, I stumbled across the Anthropologie Woven Shoulder Bag (£88) and I had to do a double take. The silhouette? A sleek woven shoulder bag with that same minimalist baguette shape. The texture? That tight, basket-like weave that looks so good tucked under your arm. The overall effect? Extremely chic.

Of course, there are differences. While Dragon Diffusion's version is handwoven from buffalo leather and entirely unlined, Anthropologie's take is made from 100% polyurethane and comes with a removable drawstring pouch (practical) as well as an inner zip pocket and slip pocket (even more practical). It's also available in four colours: chocolate brown (already sold out and on pre-order - always a good sign), green, cream and black.

What I love most is that it taps into that same timeless, artisanal aesthetic that makes woven bags feel so special but at a price point that feels a little more spontaneous. At £88, it’s the kind of bag you can justify adding to your rotation without months of deliberation.

Will it have the same heirloom quality as the Dragon Diffusion? That’s where the designer price tag earns its keep. The Rosanna is a true showcase of craftsmanship and the fact that each piece varies slightly makes it feel deeply personal. But if you’re looking to channel that effortless woven-leather energy right now - and skip the 8-10 week wait - Anthropologie’s version feels destined for viral status.

Something tells me we won't be seeing that chocolate brown restock hanging around for long.