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Marks and Spencer is turning heads with a new crossbody bag that bears a strong resemblance to a high-end designer version — but at a much more wallet-friendly price. The Faux Leather Sling Cross-Body Bag, available exclusively in chocolate brown and priced at just £25, has drawn comparisons to a similar design by luxury brand TOTEME.
Though it’s a fraction of the cost, the M&S version mimics many features of the designer bag, including its asymmetrical shape, gold-tone hardware, zip closure, and crossbody strap with a suede-effect finish.
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There are, of course, a few key differences. The M&S bag has a slightly thicker strap and is made from faux materials, while the TOTEME version uses genuine leather and suede. Still, the savings are significant — with the designer option retailing for around £630, shoppers could save over £600 by choosing the high-street alternative.
Marks and Spencer also offers a range of other stylish bags at varying price points, including the Straw Shoulder Bag (£55), Faux Leather Woven Shoulder Strap Bag (£45), and Faux Leather Woven Clutch Bag (£35).
Looking beyond M&S, there are other budget-friendly options on the market too. Next stocks the Bone Leather Fringe Cross-Body Bag for £35, New Look offers a Bright Red Quilted Faux Leather Mini Crossbody Bag (£21.99), and River Island has a Cream Metal Handle Quilted Tote for £36.
The M&S sling bag has received plenty of praise online. One happy customer wrote: “Lovely bag. Great bag. It’s very good quality and will go with so many outfits.” Another said: “Perfect bag! Fits so much, easy to wear, great colour.”
A third shopper commented: “Excellent bag for wandering round on holiday. Held all I needed. Excellent quality. Looks like leather.”
However, not all feedback has been glowing. A few customers mentioned that while the sling bag looks stylish, the faux suede material felt a bit cheap. One review read: “This bag does look good, but it feels cheap. The faux suede material is very lightweight and just doesn’t feel very nice. A return from me.”
Another noted: “Nice shape bag which can hold a fair amount — keys, glasses, etc — but feels cheap. Kept it because I loved the unusual shape.”
Despite some mixed reviews, the majority of customers have been impressed. One reviewer summed it up by saying: “Love this bag. Looks great and easy to wear. Compact but big enough to carry a decent amount. Also has a handy zipped inner pocket.”
Another added: “Really lovely crossbody bag, fits just the right amount in. Lovely material feel and comfortable to wear.”
For those after the designer look without the hefty price tag, the £25 M&S crossbody bag offers serious style and impressive savings, reports the Daily Record.
