There are now plenty of "accessible" fashion brands that offer essentials for gals and guys looking to elevate their 'fits. Today, we're introducing you to JW Pei, a newcomer to the style scene that offers chic bags worthy of your obsession.
What is JW Pei?
The Los Angeles-based label puts an emphasis on creating pieces that are "accessible, effortless, and empowering." Primarily known for their minimalist yet unique line-up of totes, JW Pei aims to be the defining punctuation mark to any wearer's OOTD. Sustainability is at the core of the brand, with their pieces made partly of vegan leather and fabric derived from recycled plastic bottles.
The History of JW PEI
A shared endeavor between husband and wife duo Yang Pei and Stephanie Li, the brand first rolled out its maiden collection in 2018. In a previous interview, Stephanie expressed that the two of them "felt that the fashion industry needed something sustainable, desirable, and inclusive." Sooner than later, their products were found in the clutches of style icons like Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski, and more.
With its rising popularity, JW Pei became an emerging contender in the luxury bag market, and has since become a regular sight at fashion weeks, magazine spreads, and high-street brunches. The brand has transitioned with the seasons, regularly releasing fresh collections of bags, shoes, and other accessories targeted at the "modern woman" they seek to dress.
JW Pei's Most Popular Bags
1. Gabbi Handbag
Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag, P5000, JW PEI, jwpei.com and Zalora
Be honest: You've seen this bag before. The Gabbi actually comes in a myriad of colors, as all JW Pei pieces do, but its verdant green iteration remains to be the most popular. The ruched handle is soft to grab onto, and the magnetic clasp on its body ensures your essentials are in check.
2. Joy Shoulder Bag
Joy Shoulder Bag, P5000, JW PEI, jwpei.com and Zalora
A slightly more formal option the brand offers is the Joy. Its horizontal silhouette and gold hardware imbibe a certain classiness, yet it retains a fun energy with its curved bottom.
3. FAE Top Handle Crossbody Bag
FAE Top Handle Crossbody Bag, P5000, JW PEI, jwpei.com and Zalora
JW Pei's entry to the petite micro-bag trend is the FAE, a reptilian skin piece that can become a crossbody with a detachable strap. It may not fit as much as the other totes, but it still packs a punch with its exotic leather design!
4. Maze Crossbody Bag
Maze Crossbody Bag, P7200, JW PEI, jwpei.com and Zalora
The Maze is what you reach for when you want a simple and straightforward piece that still has some character to it, thanks to its chunky weaved exterior. It's meant to be worn as a crossbody, but we see no reason why it can't be hand-held as a clutch for evening affairs. It may have a higher price tag than other JW Pei pieces, but the craftsmanship alone surely makes it a worthy purchase.
5. Abacus Top Handle Bag
Abacus Top Handle Bag, P5000, JW PEI, jwpei.com and Zalora
One of the newest additions to JW Pei's roster is the Abacus, a quirky round-shaped tote with two color-complementing rings looped through its handle. It's a spacious carrier that will certainly spark conversations with its charming, off-kilter appeal.
Local Style Stars Wearing JW Pei Bags
Given its casual chicness and accessible bang-for-your-back factor, it's no surpise that JW Pei has entered the wardrobes of Filipina style stars. See how they style their bags below:
1. Yassi Pressman
During a vacay last July, Yassi Pressman packed an eye-candy wardrobe that was perfect for the Spanish summer. For one of her looks, she went for some color-blocking with an orange silk dress, a blue blazer, and a green Gabbi.
2. Andrea Torres
On one of her off-duty days, Andrea Torres brought out the earthy tones of her bodycon frock with the viral green bag on her shoulder.
3. Andrea Brillantes
Another Andrea who's a JW Pei stan is Andrea Brillantes. Her bag of choice for her casual get-up was a tiny FAE in white. All neutrals, all day!
3. Jaz Reyes
Jazzing up Jaz Reyes' head-to-toe white lewk was a sparkly Abacus in an adorable mini size. Big things can come in small packages, we suppose.
4. Ashley Garcia
The perpetually-on-trend Ashley Garcia accessorized her halter top 'fit with a Gabbi bag in a sizzling chili-red hue. It certainly spiced things up!
Another JW Pei original in Ashley's collection is a black-and-white Abacus, which perfectly went with her flowy red coords.
Ready to cop a JW Pei bag of your own? They're available on the brand's official website and on Zalora.
Products and services recommended on our websites are independently selected by editors. If you buy something through our links, Summit may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Links are updated regularly and as much as possible, but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire, and listed prices can change without prior notice.
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
