Neutral colors, quality fabrics with few superfluous details, classic cuts, and a dearth of flashy labels—you’ll recognize these as key components of the ‘quiet luxury’ trend. Sparked in part by Succession’s morally questionable yet always stylish Roy family, the understated look has been governing our interior and wardrobe choices for the past couple of years. Now it’s quietly influencing our luggage, too.
Marking a shift away from the futuristic aluminium bodies typically seen on luxury suitcases, leather ranges have been popping up at some of our favourite luggage retailers. Rimowa’s recently launched Distinct range of carry-ons sees its iconic aluminium frames draped in a cloak of elegant pebbled leather. Mulberry also has a new leather-clad line of cases in a colorful array of shades you’d rather expect for its handbags. And, of course, Louis Vuitton’s instantly recognizable designs have always been offered in leather.
It makes sense that these collections are dropping now. Sustainability is an increasingly pertinent consideration for consumers, meaning longevity is a key factor when purchasing. A simple, quality leather handbag can remain a beloved partner for years, so why not choose the same for your luggage? Indeed, Rimowa says it took inspiration from the house’s very earliest designs for this new collection, while working to develop a new wrapping technique to allow the cases to maintain their iconic grooved design.
But that’s not to say there isn’t still a place for aluminium and carbonite luggage on the carousel. These materials offer strength and lightness that likely can’t be matched by heavier counterparts such as leather. For a nod to the trend without going all in, there are brands offering hard shell cases with smart leather trims. Luxury luggage brand Globe Trotter has recently released a new range of its signature vintage-style cases in collaboration with atelier The Vampire’s Wife, finished with chunky leather details and suitably vampish scarlet linings.
Regardless, for those seeking to invest in quality with some added timeless flair, this new trend is one to watch. Below, find our picks for the best leather suitcases for travelers. For more suggestions, see our full luggage guide or our reviews of the very best carry-ons.
This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.