The Row Margaux 12 Shoulder Bag Review

The first moment I tried it on, I understood why it has become one of the most recognisable quiet-luxury pieces of the year. It has that understated, effortless elegance The Row is known for – subtle, soft, beautifully crafted — the kind of bag you wear without feeling like you’re trying too hard. It blends into your wardrobe while quietly elevating every outfit.

I’ve been carrying it daily, and the more I use it, the more I appreciate the balance between relaxed structure, clean lines, and absolute practicality.

Softly structured shoulder bag

Material: 100% calfskin leather (matte grained)

Interior lining: 100% lambskin leather

Belted, gusseted side panels

Interior toggle closure

Hardware: Antique silver finish

Dimensions: 14.75 × 9 × 5 in (~37.5 × 23 × 12.7 cm)

Made in Italy

Colour options:

Smoked Taupe, Dark Pine, Deep Brown, Black, White

Despite its minimalist appearance, the Margaux Shoulder Bag is surprisingly practical. Inside, it comfortably holds all my essentials – phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, a small cosmetics pouch, and even a slim notebook or water bottle. The bag’s weight and softness make it a dream for all-day wear, and the leather is durable enough to age beautifully, taking on a character unique to each owner. I’ve found that it’s equally suitable for casual city errands, smart-casual work outfits, or a chic weekend look.

When placed side by side, the Margaux 12 Shoulder and the original Margaux 12 highlight the versatility of The Row’s design approach. Both bags share the brand’s signature minimalist aesthetic and premium calfskin craftsmanship, yet they serve slightly different purposes. The Shoulder bag features a softer, more relaxed structure with belted gusseted sides and a toggle closure, making it perfect for hands-free, everyday wear. The classic Margaux 12 is more structured and handheld, with rigid panels and top handles, exuding a polished, elevated elegance. In short, the Shoulder bag leans casual and adaptable, while the original Margaux 12 offers a refined, formal option – both quietly luxurious and versatile additions to any wardrobe.

The Margaux Shoulder Bag is my go-to for both casual and smart-casual looks. I love pairing it with jeans, a crisp white T-shirt, an oversized coat, and loafers for an effortless city outfit. It also works beautifully with a soft turtleneck, oversized blazer, and ankle boots on cooler autumn days. For slightly dressier moments, a long-sleeved midi dress under a tailored oversized blazer lets the bag add texture and understated elegance without ever feeling over the top.

Beyond the Shoulder 12, I also adore the classic Margaux 12, the larger Margaux 17, the Margaux 17 clutch, and even the smaller Margaux 10. I mix and match them depending on the outfit, occasion, or mood, leaving plenty of style inspiration along the way. Each bag offers a slightly different silhouette, but they all share the same quiet-luxury elegance that makes The Row so timeless.

The Margaux Shoulder Bag has become one of those pieces I reach for instinctively. Its combination of soft structure, luxurious materials, and functional design make it ideal for daily wear, while its minimalism ensures it remains timeless. If you’re drawn to The Row’s quiet-luxury aesthetic and are looking for a shoulder bag that effortlessly blends style and practicality, the Margaux is a piece that truly delivers.

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