Khaite Handbags 101: A Close Look at the Most-Wanted Styles, From the Olivia to the Lotus

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 designs, 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 ponyhair 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, ladylike 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 midsize shape makes it a good choice for either 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 are options including ornate python, glassy alligator in a variety of jewel tones, and showstopping ponyhair in luscious mustard yellow and zebra effect. No wonder it’s a favorite of It girls including Elsa Hosk.