This review is not sponsored and contains the author’s personal experience. The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here. The editor purchased the dress, all other products were gifted.

Summary: Cuyana is all about “fewer, better” things, and honestly, it shows. The brand’s focus is on timeless, minimalist pieces that you’ll actually want to use every day — think leather totes, classic dresses, and travel essentials. Everything feels super intentional, from the soft leather to the thoughtful design details (like sturdy handles, statement buckles, and hidden pockets). Cuyana is also big on sustainability, with every product now certified and a goal to have carbon-neutral packaging soon. While the prices are definitely an investment, most fans (myself included) agree the quality and longevity make it worth it. If you’re looking for pieces that look good and last, Cuyana really delivers.

Pros

  • The quality is next-level—bags like the Easy Tote hold up beautifully, even after over three years of near-daily use.
  • Designs are simple and classic, so nothing feels too trendy or likely to go out of style. But they’re never bland either! The pieces make a statement without stealing the show.
  • Everything is made with sustainability in mind, and the brand is super transparent about its progress.
  • Pieces are practical and versatile, whether you’re heading to work or packing for a trip.
  • Thoughtful touches, like durable zippers and pockets in dresses, make everything feel a little more special.

Cons

  • The price tag can be steep, especially for some leather goods and travel bags. (The Easy Tote is a great starter Cuyana bag, though — you get a lot of space for a lower price point!)
  • Clothing sizes are limited (XS to XL), so not everyone will find their perfect fit.
  • I am a little hesitant to bring some of the travel bags on planes, because of the higher price point. I just know how much carryons can get jostled if you have to gate check them!

    As I pass through my mid-30s faster than I’d expected, I’m surprised at how quickly all the trends from my youth have circled back into style — high-waisted jeans, Doc Martens, even peasant tops. Trends really are cyclical and most of those trends were already recycled before I wore them in high school. (I remember my own mother was shocked by the “new” popularity of the bell-bottom jeans she wore in the 70s.) 🌀

    While I’ve grown confident enough to wear clothing for comfort and preference over what’s “in” these days, there’s one trend I strangely miss: Giant bags. We’ve seen them on the periphery of runways and photoshoots, but I long for the days when I’d put all my school books into a giant pink velvet and faux leather bag that had gold chains and charms clamoring on the sides. (Think: Juicy Couture, but from the Kohl’s discount rack).

    “I like big bags and I cannot lie — so when I discovered Cuyana’s spacious Easy Tote, I was immediately smitten.”

    Yes — I like big bags and I cannot lie. So when I discovered Cuyana’s spacious Easy Tote, one of the brand’s most classic and popular designs, I was immediately smitten. I found my next big bag! I’ve toted this leather bag now for over three years, and its quality and timeless design convinced me to add even more Cuyana pieces to my wardrobe, including a crossbody bag, a shoulder bag, a one-shoulder dress, a packable straw hat, and an *actual* weekender. If you’re on the fence, read on to hear why I love the Easy Tote — and Cuyana in general — so much.

    First, is Cuyana sustainable?

    First, some background (bag-ground? Sorry, I can’t help myself). Cuyana was founded in 2013 by Karla Gallardo and Shilpa Shah, who were on a mission to redefine modern luxury with a focus on fewer, better things. The name “Cuyana” itself is derived from a Quechua word meaning “to love” or “to care,” which embodies not only the dedication to quality, but the brand’s commitment to both people and planet.

    Cuyana is dedicated to sustainability and responsible sourcing, and focuses on low-impact and ethical production practices. Cuyana’s products carry a variety of sustainable certifications, which is something worth celebrating! I’m particularly happy to see their products are all made using Leather Working Group (LWG) Certified leather, which means all its leather is tanned in an environmentally responsible manner. I’m also excited to see that the brand is dedicated to going fully carbon-neutral with its packaging by this year (2025), and I’ll continue to watch ways they’re remaining accountable to that pledge.

    So here’s the lowdown on some of the Cuyana classics I’ve put to the “Emily test” — aka an everday bag user who is not precious about her bags. I’m from the Midwest, what can I say? I test for function first. Scroll to see everything, but you can also click to jump to which bag you want to learn more about:

    Three leather handbags—one large tan tote, one teal crossbody, and one small brown shoulder bag—are arranged on a wooden surface, creating an elegant scene worthy of a cuyana review.
    These are the Cuyana bags I’ve tested, from left to right: the Paloma, the Easy Tote, and the Mini Celestia

    My Cuyana Easy Tote review

    The Classic Easy Tote is a minimalist’s dream — this wide tote bag features two lengths of handles for shoulder or hand carrying, a simple inner pocket, and strappy ties on the inside to offer a bit more structure and security. You can select from five core colors, as well as limited seasonal colors like dark coral, biscuit, sage, and terracotta. The Small Easy Tote starts at $258, while the Classic and Tall Easy Totes start at $278.

    “The Easy Tote is a minimalist’s dream, and the caramel colorway is a perfect warm neutral.”

    For this review, I opted for the Caramel colorway (I’m almost always wearing warm, bright colors, and I wanted to boost the color rather than take away with a dark black bag). This color is so beautiful; warm enough to give a bit of a dopamine boost to a minimal outfit, and neutral enough to pair with more out-of-pocket colors like my current favorite, lime green. 

    I’ve now carried the Easy Tote as my primary bag for over three years — most often for commuting to work or coffeeshops (I can easily bring along a laptop, a leakproof Klean Kanteen of coffee, a LARQ water bottle, even a packed lunch!). Beyond that, I’ve used the bag as my personal item on airplanes, a grocery tote, and as a chic way to carry the numerous layers I need for the Los Angeles wintertime (and when the sun sets in the summer — forget diamonds, layers are a girl’s best friend).

    The caramel easy tote is a dreamy, warm neutral and while it’s super durable, it’s also incredibly soft from day one.

    After nearly daily use for over three years, I’m happy to report there’s no fraying or wear on the stitching, and only a few barely noticeable nicks here and there on the leather. I’m especially happy to see that the handles are still in great shape — they’ve been bent and flopped around, and have often carried rather heavy items like 12-packs of beer and farmer’s market’s fresh-veggie bunches without showing any sign of strain. Hey, I’m a woman who contains multitudes, okay? (When I tell you I’m rough on my bags, I mean it; these bags have seen everything.)

    This bag can fit a full dinner party’s worth of a grocery haul, which is extremely useful since I rarely remember my reusable canvas grocery totes. (But if I’m shopping for the week, I can easily fit 2-3 large empty totes and several reusable produce bags in my Easy Tote while still having room for plenty more.)

    The only drawback here is one that Cuyana has already solved — I could always use a good zipper! Fortunately, the Easy Tote does have the option to add a zipper for $20 more. I’d say if you plan to use this bag for travel, opt for the zip! If you’re just commuting or running errands though, it’s nice and accessible without.

    Ultimately, for the price, you’re getting a luxurious, versatile bag that will last you much longer than the cheap fake leather totes that start flaking the moment you use them. While $278 is a big investment, this might just be the only work bag you’ll need for years and years making the cost-per-wear quite low. I can attest!

    “After testing The Easy Tote for over three years, I’m happy to report there’s no fraying or wear on the stitching, and only a few barely noticeable nicks on the leather. (I’m rough on my bags!)”

    The Classic Easy Tote is spacious and I’m pleased that it hasn’t worn down too much even though I’ve been carrying it every day for almost three years.

    My Cuyana Mini Paloma review

    A dark green, textured leather handbag with wide handles hangs against a yellow wall, casting a shadow in the sunlight—perfect for anyone seeking quality after reading a glowing Cuyana review.
    The Paloma ($458) has such a unique, architectural look to it.

    For something a little smaller than my Easy Tote, the Paloma bag caught my eye with its unusual, sculptural silhouette — there’s something quietly bold about the asymmetrical zipper, which adds a playful twist to an already unique shape. It’s a design that feels both modern and timeless (it’s even been spotted on Meghan Markle). The color I’ve been testing, a rich teal green, isn’t currently available, but I love how it offers a pop of color that’s still versatile enough to go with most of my wardrobe. It’s vibrant, but not loud, and feels just right for adding a little personality to everyday outfits. Don’t worry though, Cuyana has fabulous classic colors that are always in stock, and a great rotating cast of seasonal colors (can we TALK about the Rioja brick red??)

    Size

    The Paloma is compact enough to feel portable and easy to carry, but roomy enough for the essentials (and then some). I can comfortably fit a journal, a small book, and, crucially, about six emotional support pens — because you never know when you’ll need to share a writing utensil in a pinch. For reference, an A5 journal or a 5 x 8.25-inch Moleskine slides in perfectly. What you won’t fit: a larger e-reader or tablet, so if you’re heading to a work meeting and need more tech than a phone or a Kindle-sized device, you may want to opt for something bigger. But for daily use, errands, or a casual coffee shop session, the Mini Paloma feels just right.

    “The Paloma is compact enough to feel portable and easy to carry, but roomy enough for the essentials (and then some).”

    Functionality

    Functionality is where this bag really shines. The adjustable crossbody strap makes it easy to wear hands-free, but I often find myself reaching for the smaller, round top handles — they’re satisfyingly sturdy and make the bag feel even more versatile. (I’m not sure if that’s the “intended” way to carry it, but it works for me.) The squared-off bottom is a thoughtful detail; it helps the bag stand up on its own, which is a small luxury versus having a giant tote bag flopped out on a table. If I could change one thing, I’d add tiny metal feet to the bottom—since I don’t frequent places with bag hooks, my Paloma sometimes ends up on the floor (aggh I’m sorry, little bag!). The leather itself is thick and structured, a bit more rigid than my beloved Easy Tote, which gives the Mini Paloma a polished, architectural look that I adore. The zipper is sturdy and features a shiny gold finish, though I did have to give the lug a little squeeze with pliers to keep the pull from slipping off — a quick fix, but worth mentioning. I’m sure not all bags will need this! 

    Oh, and there’s an inner pocket that’s helpful for smaller items, and a button-closure ring for keeping keys handy. Although, to be honest, I have such bulky keys it’s rare to lose them in a bag this size.

    Overall Thoughts

    At its luxury price point of $458, the Paloma is definitely an investment, but after over a year of regular use, I’m genuinely pleased with how well it’s holding up. The craftsmanship is apparent in the stitching and the quality of the leather, and I have no doubt it’ll only get better with time — my Easy Tote is still going strong after three years, so I’m optimistic about the Paloma’s longevity. Personally, I think prefer the mini size to the full Paloma tote (which I haven’t tried); it’s more structured and compact, and for my needs, it’s the perfect everyday companion. If you’re looking for a bag that’s equal parts functional, stylish, and a little bit unexpected, the Mini Paloma is a standout choice — one that’s earned a permanent spot in my rotation.

    Close-up view of the interior of a teal leather handbag with textured lining, an inner pocket, and a small gold button detail—perfect for anyone searching for an honest Cuyana review.
    A person in a sleeveless, ribbed, dark dress stands indoors holding a textured green handbag, wearing a watch and bracelet, as sunlight casts shadows on the wall—a perfect scene for a Cuyana review.
    The Paloma gets my recommendation thanks to its functionality and nice, mid-range size. I can carry a small journal and a handful of pens for on-the-go thoughts!

    My Cuyana Mini Celestia review

    A brown leather Cuyana handbag with a shoulder strap is displayed hanging on green tropical leaves against a dark background—perfect for your next Cuyana review.

    The Mini Celestia is pure Gen-Z girlie energy, and I mean that in the best way possible. I knew it was going to be small, but I was still surprised at just how petite it looked when I unboxed it. Fortunately, it fits my essentials — wallet, keys, phone — plus a teeny notebook or a few folded papers and, of course, a single emotional support pen. The design is playful but polished, with a unique “blobby” buckle on the side that feels like a piece of gold jewelry dangling from your shoulder. There’s something nostalgic about the full-zip top; it instantly reminded me of my favorite slouchy sequin purse from high school, except the Celestia is way more grown up and sophisticated.

    Functionality & Care

    Like I said, little lady Mini Celestia is SMOL. The bag measures 8.7″ wide, 4.7″ tall, and 2.4″ deep, making it a true mini bag. It’s just enough for your absolute must-haves, and the small inner pocket is perfect for stashing a card, some cash, and your ID — no need to lug around your entire wallet (why do I carry a NYC metro card when I live in Los Angeles?). There’s also a button-closure ring for keys, though in a bag this size, I never lose my giant car key and garage opener anyway. If you’re a minimalist, this bag is your new best friend; if you’re a “just in case” packer, you’ll want to bring an extra tote for those farmers market hauls. The zipper runs very smoothly across the entire top, keeping everything tidy and secure. 

    I have had a couple mishaps with this baby, which is why I probably shouldn’t have nice things. After a night out, I discovered my ILIA lip pencil escaped its cap and redecorated everything inside the bag like an out-of-control toddler. A quick swipe with a soft rag (not damp, since I was worried about the suede) took care of the worst of the mess, but there’s now a forever-stain reminding me of that date night. Oh, well, it was a good night!

    Additionally, If you’re a natural deodorant wearer like me and you keep the Celestia tucked close while wearing a sleeveless top, you might notice some residue on the strap. Thankfully, the smooth leather makes it easy to wipe away — just use a soft, damp rag, which helps scrub away any stubborn spots in the stitching.

    Overall, I do worry this super-smooth leather won’t be as forgiving as the pebbled finishes of my pebbled Easy Tote or Mini Paloma. So far, I’ve been able to buff out any marks with a soft cloth, and the small size means it’s rarely out of sight (or out of hand). 

    “If you’re a minimalist, this bag is your new best friend; if you’re a ‘just in case’ packer, you’ll want to bring an extra tote for those farmers market hauls.”

    A hand opens a brown zippered pouch, revealing a dark interior with a small red mark or stain on the lining against a blue background—a detail often mentioned in a Cuyana review.
    Close-up of a brown leather bag strap with gold hardware against a dark blue fabric background, reminiscent of details highlighted in many a Cuyana review.
    I’ve had some mishaps with my Mini Celestia — including a rogue lipstick and my natural deodorant rubbing off on the handle. It’s easy to clean, though!

    Overall Thoughts

    At $298, the Mini Celestia still sits at a luxury price point (especially for its size), but you can expect the same Cuyana quality. The craftsmanship is evident in the stitching and hardware, and the structured silhouette holds up beautifully, even after a few accidental bumps. And even though I’m not a die-hard brand-name fashionista, the little Cuyana signature gold logo print on the side stands out in a way that makes me happy every time I see it. 

    The Mini Celestia is not the bag for carrying your whole life, but it’s perfect for those days (and nights) when you want to travel light and look pulled together. I might even tuck it into my suitcase next time I want to bring a small bag for daily travel adventures!

    A woman with blonde hair, wearing a denim jacket and green skirt, walks on a paved path outside a building, carrying a brown purse over her shoulder—perfect for a Cuyana review. Several people stand in the background.
    A woman stands on a paved street wearing a denim jacket, striped top, olive skirt, and sandals, holding a brown shoulder bag—perfect for any cuyana review. People and buildings appear in the background.
    NGL, this bag had me feeling myself after Korean Barbecue. I love this lip color, and subsequently the lid came off in my bag and will forever be a part of it.

    Other Cuyana staples I recommend

    But wait, there’s more! Cuyana won me over as a customer with their bags, so the brand was my first thought when I needed to upgrade my travel wardrobe and accessories. Here’s what else I tried — and loved — from Cuyana, and whether I think they’re worth the investment.

    Gathered One-Shoulder Dress | $228 [Currently out of stock]

    Earlier this year, I found myself heading to a formal event without actually having anything formal to wear. I fussed over my closet for a week, trying to figure out if I could make something work. But when my flight started looming, I realized I needed to find something fast. 

    Cuyana’s clothing has long been on my wish list, so I headed straight to the site and was greeted with this stunning one-shoulder beauty. Reader, I am a very thrifty person, but I loved the dress so much that I purchased it at full price — and overnighted it to be sure I had it on time.

    “I am a very thrifty person, but I loved the dress so much that I purchased it at full price — and overnighted it to be sure I had it on time.”

    It was even better than I imagined! I’ve now worn this piece in multiple settings, including a couple of formal ones, with absolute ease. The design is elegant, yet the fabric feels like formal loungewear thanks to its composition (45% Organic Pima Cotton, 45% Modal, 10% Lycra). It’s durable, weighty without being too hot, and super soft with just enough stretch. 

    The details are stunning too — I especially love the stretchy slit in the side and how each tier on the full-length skirt is sewn on a diagonal for extra visual movement and intrigue. And if you’re not sold just yet? This dress has pockets. 😍

    I will say though, and I will not ever stop saying, that we need more sizes. XS to XL is only the beginning, and would love to see this dress available for more bodies.

    I’ve worn my gathered one-shoulder dress to many events — happy to say it goes with a variety of hair lengths!



    The Packable Ecuador Hat | $128

    I’ve never been a hat person, but Cuyana’s Ecuador Hat has converted me (it’s technically a “Panama” style hat, but it’s named after the country it’s actually crafted in). I’ve packed it multiple times this year in my travels, and am pleased with its durability and comfort. Coming in at $118, though, I will say it’s a bit pricey for being “packable.” Since the Ecuador Hat relies on its stiff-ish shape for style, scrunching it up in any way will impact the overall look — ultimately I found that the hat noticeably loses some structure each time I fold it for travel.

    After a year of wearing my Ecuador Hat, I am finding that the brim is a little more wavy than I’d like — but it’s still cute, and works great for a little extra sun protection! My recommendation would be to stick to a less expensive hat for travel and opt for Cuyana’s wide brim hat to wear at home for just $10 more than the packable one. (Just remember to store it properly, in a hatbox if you have one!)

     Look at how packable my Ecuador hat is! I’m a hat convert, mostly for the sun protection. After a few trips with the hat, though, I’ve found that the rim is a little wavy and difficult to re-shape.



    Recycled Knit Weekender Bag | $298

    Finally, I tested out the beautifully spacious weekender bag; I love the structure and the strength of this carry-on, and the zippers are shiny and substantial (no flimsy zips here). I was able to fit two pairs of shoes and four day’s worth of clothing in the bag for a trip over the summer, and didn’t feel at any point that I had to overstuff the bag. Thanks to the two exterior pockets and three interior ones, I was able to keep all my charging cords, cosmetics, and toiletries managed (which is always difficult for me).

    But an important note: The weekender size of this bag is too large to be considered a “personal item” on most planes so it will need to be stowed as a carry-on in the overhead compartment. I’d recommend opting for the less expensive recycled knit rather than the leather in case you need to gate-check your bag. If you’re traveling by car or train, though, and prefer leather I say go for it!

    I packed my Cuyana bags for a four-day trip and felt very chic at the airport (although a little overwhelmed by straps).



    Overall, Cuyana has my heart (and likely, some of my wardrobe budget for next year). If you’re looking to invest in just one bag or dress for the long haul, I truly recommend keeping an eye on all of Cuyana’s classics and new releases to come. The only drawbacks I can note are the limited size range and the high price tag. Do watch for sales, which can pop up around holidays! And as always, remember — buy fewer, better items that you truly need.

    And when it comes to moving through my 30s and into my 40s? My Cuyana staples are coming with.

    The Easy Tote is actually is so soft that my cousin snapped this pic of me napping on it. Look at me, all tuckered out from the sun! I’m glad I had my Ecuador Hat for a little extra protection.

    Emily McGowan is the Editorial Director at The Good Trade. She studied Creative Writing and Business at Indiana University, and has over ten years of experience as a writer and editor in sustainability and lifestyle spaces. Since 2017, she’s been discovering and reviewing the top sustainable home, fashion, beauty, and wellness products so readers can make their most informed decisions. Her editorial work has been recognized by major publications like The New York Times and BBC Worklife. You can usually find her in her colorful Los Angeles apartment journaling, playing with her cat, or crafting. Say hi on Instagram or follow along with her Substack, Pinky Promise.