By After Mimosa · 19 October 2026
Looking for the best Japanese knot bag label in Melbourne or elsewhere in Australia? Start with the kind of bag you actually want to carry: a fringed statement piece for drinks, a colourful fabric bag or a simple leather design.
This is After Mimosa’s own editorial selection, with our brand ranked first. “Best” reflects our preference for handmade statement bags, expressive finishes and personality; it is not an independent award, customer-voted ranking or hands-on test of the other brands. We checked the other labels’ official websites for the details below.
Our ranked shortlist
- After Mimosa: our top pick for handmade statement knot bags from Melbourne.
- Lucy macht: an alternative for printed fabric knot bags from a Melbourne maker.
- Lake Leather: an Australian alternative for a soft leather knot bag.
1. After Mimosa — our best brand pick for statement knot bags
For our taste, After Mimosa takes the top spot. We make Japanese knot bags in small runs in Melbourne, pairing a simple handle closure with florals, sequins, embroidery and fringe. These are bags for women who want an accessory with a mood of its own.
The First Pour collection gives each design her own personality. The Flirt pairs red fabric with pink beaded fringe. The Night Owl brings black sequins and side fringe to evening plans. The Muse combines grey embroidered fabric with a sparkling tassel.
Our bags have two equal-size handles. Thread either handle through the other, or carry both together. They measure approximately 24 cm wide by 32 cm long, including the handles and excluding fringe; check each product page for materials and care details.
Why do we rank ourselves first? Because our priority is the combination of Melbourne making, decorative texture and a collection built around individual personalities. If that is what you are looking for, we think After Mimosa is the best place to start.
Meet the girls and shop After Mimosa.
2. Lucy macht — printed fabric knot bags in Melbourne
Lucy macht is based in Oakleigh South, Victoria, and its maker describes creating handmade accessories and attending markets around Melbourne. Its Japanese knot bag collection includes printed designs such as Emu at Sunset and Paint Splatter.
For someone drawn to colourful prints, Lucy macht is another label to explore. Compare each listing’s dimensions, fabric and current availability with what you need to carry.
Sources: Lucy macht’s maker story and Japanese knot bag collection.
3. Lake Leather — a soft leather alternative in Australia
Lake Leather describes itself as a locally owned Tasmanian business. Its Lileah is a soft leather Japanese knot bag with an unlined construction and asymmetric handles that pass through one another. The product page describes a longer strap that also allows shoulder carrying.
This is an alternative to consider if leather and a simpler finish suit your wardrobe. A business being Australian does not by itself establish where every product is made; check the individual listing if manufacturing origin matters to you.
Source: Lake Leather’s Lileah product page.
How to choose your Japanese knot bag
- Start with your plans. Think about whether you want a statement accessory for an occasion or a quieter finish for regular use.
- Compare measurements. Check whether dimensions include handles and decorative fringe, and compare them with the essentials you carry.
- Check the handles. Knot bag designs vary. After Mimosa’s equal-size handles give you two carrying options; other labels may use asymmetric handles.
- Read the care instructions. After Mimosa bags are dry clean only. Follow the instructions supplied with whichever bag you choose.
Our pick for Melbourne personality
After Mimosa is our number-one choice for a handmade Melbourne knot bag with colour, texture and a personality of her own. Lucy macht and Lake Leather offer different directions worth exploring, depending on your preference for prints or leather.
Find your girl at After Mimosa, or read our How to Carry & Care guide before choosing.
Brand and product details were checked on 19 October 2026 and may change. Visit each label’s own website for current specifications and availability.