A better have a look at Aspinal of London’s Mayfair bag, cherished by Kate

Aspinal of London has secured a special place as one of the Royal Family‘s favourite accessory brands. 

Established in 2002 by British entrepreneur Iain Burton, the firm is renowned for its distinguished handbags, which have been seen on the arms of royal women including Kate Middleton. 

Kate’s most-loved design, the Midi Mayfair, exemplifies the British label’s exceptional craftsmanship and timeless vintage elegance.

Burton expressed to MailOnline his delight at having such prominent admirers, saying: ‘All of us at Aspinal are hugely honoured and proud that the Royal Family have given their support to Aspinal over the years. 

‘Princess Catherine is one of the most loved, hugely respected and iconic women in the world.’

He added: ‘Everyone in the fashion industry watches what she wears, and it’s reported on fervently worldwide.’

Burton previously co-founded the now-defunct independent music label Fanfare Records with Simon Cowell.

He was initially known for inventing and supplying audio guides through his company, Antenna Audio, to some of the world’s most renowned museums, including the National Gallery, the Louvre and the Vatican. 

This collaboration evolved into Aspinal becoming the supplier of bespoke leather accessories and stationery to museum gift shops.

His vision of establishing a heritage brand, characterised by exquisite craftsmanship, luxurious materials, bold colours and contemporary design, has garnered global acclaim. 

The Princess of Wales has carried four bags by Aspinal of London, since debuting her first – an Eaton Clutch – at a friend’s wedding in 2011.

Kate’s favourite style appears to be the Midi Mayfair, which she introduced in 2018 and has repeatedly worn since.

‘The Mayfair is the personification of quintessential refined English elegance, which we believe perfectly suits the Princess’s style and grace,’ Burton proudly said. 

‘The association of Princess Catherine with our Mayfair bag in particular, has of course given invaluable support to building Aspinal’s profile and reputation, as well as benefitting sales of the Mayfair worldwide.’

The Midi Mayfair, priced at £595, is crafted from full-grain Italian leather and features Aspinal’s signature shield lock and logo.

Available in 26 colours with smooth, textured and patterned finishes, the classic vintage-inspired design has timeless appeal.

As well as being carried by royals, it is also popular with a host of A-list celebrities. 

However, today’s design has significantly evolved from the original version launched 17 years ago. 

‘Our Mayfair is perhaps the brand’s most prolific design, worn by celebrities and royals, although you would hardly recognise the original Mayfair from 2007 to the famous Mayfair we have today,’ Burton explained.

‘The Mayfair’s celebrated style developed over time, step-by-step from the original concept design through to the now recognised silhouette, led by the iconic Midi Mayfair. 

‘Over the years, myself and Mariya Dykalo, our Artistic Executive Designer, have reiterated and reinvented the size and proportions to create a bag that we hope personifies understated quiet luxury… a blend of “modern yet classic, cool yet vintage style”, really the perfect bag for day, night and any occasion.’

Currently, the Mayfair is sold in three sizes, ranging from mini to large. 

Discussing the design process, Burton revealed that the first stage was to create the iconic shield lock. 

‘The design and creation of our Mayfair shield lock is an interpretation of the Aspinal shield seen in our logo,’ he says.

‘Why a shield logo? Because the Aspinal shield is a heraldic emblem of strength, trust, quality, service and of course age-old craftsmanship.’

The Midi Mayfair is the perfect size for holding everyday essentials, with three internal compartments and a back slip pocket for easy organisation and access.

In addition to her black croc version, Kate owns a now-discontinued lilac colourway, debuted in 2018.

For both bags, she opts to remove the detachable shoulder strap, instead carrying them by the top handle. 

Queen Camilla and Zara Tindall are also fond of the Midi Mayfair and have both been seen carrying the sophisticated burgundy croc version. 

In March, Zara further impressed with the Mayfair 2, which was released in 2023 to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of its predecessor.

She showcased the £750 black and red ombre croc style at Cheltenham Festival, adding a striking touch to her race day attire. 

The updated design features a sleeker silhouette, chunky chain handle and contemporary feel, while retaining Aspinal’s charming aesthetic. 

‘The Mayfair we hope has become a “forever” bag; a rare English icon that stands the test of time, surpassing fads, trends and fast fashion, being worn by celebrities time and time again over the years,’ says Burton.

‘Forbes magazine recently said of the design, “Think Jane Birkin, with undertones of English charm. The Mayfair Bag is a vintage favourite” – I am happy with that.’ 

Zara has an extensive collection of Aspinal bags, including the £550 Ella Crossbody bag, the £350 Raffia Crossbody bag and the £395 Micro Lottie Crossbody bag.

Meanwhile, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have both sported the iconic Hat Box in bordeaux croc on numerous occasions during the festive period. 

Queen Camilla’s affinity with the brand has remained strong for several years. 

She first carried the £450 Letterbox Saddle Bag to a literature festival at Peterborough Cathedral in 2016, marking the start of her ongoing love affair with Aspinal of London.

Timeless, long-lasting and responsible luxury are at the forefront of this company. 

It is consciously developing its sustainability strategy, Bee Aspinal, which details its commitments under the headers of ‘Product’, ‘Planet’, ‘Partnership’ and ‘People’.  

Aspinal has removed single-use plastic and only uses ethically-sourced raw materials. 

‘I am immensely proud that Aspinal is still guided by its original brand values, respecting both customer and product,’ Burton said. 

‘We strive continuously to create the highest quality products, handmade by dedicated, artisan craftspeople. 

‘Using premium leather, materials and components, we handmake our beautiful designs that offer exceptionally good value to our customers.

‘This ethos has established Aspinal as the home of superior quality and the go-to gifting destination for quality personalised gifts that last forever.’

The brand’s future business plan is clear, as it remains committed to delivering high-quality products and upholding ethical practices. 

Burton added: ‘As Aspinal continues to grow and expand, both in the UK and internationally, our team understands exactly who we are, what we stand for and what we are trying to achieve. 

‘Aspinal customers can continue to expect the highest quality materials, artisan craftsmanship and timeless style, delivering fair, honest old fashioned brand values to the luxury market.’