My passion for quality craftsmanship stems from a deep-rooted appreciation for leather goods. Growing up, I was surrounded by the art of leatherwork—whether it was my grandfather’s old workshop or my own journey of collecting and experiencing different brands over the years.

As someone who has spent decades testing and reviewing leather handbags, two brands that frequently pop up in conversations about leather goods are Portland Leather Goods (PLG) and Latico Leathers. In an effort to determine once and for all which brand offers the best balance of quality, design, and value, I purchased a tote from each.

So, which bag brand truly deserves a spot in your collection? Keep reading!!

Heritage:
Latico has been crafting heirloom-quality leather goods for over 40 years. Established in 1984, this family-run business is built on decades of expertise and love for natural, 100% handcrafted leather. Their focus on combining artisanal techniques with contemporary designs ensures each piece feels timeless and unique. Portland Leather Goods was founded in 2015, initially as an Etsy brand. Known for entry-level leather bags, it has grown in popularity for its mainstream, affordable offerings. Despite its rapid growth, the brand’s construction, material and design choices reflect its origins as an entry-level option.

Winner: Latico. With over four decades of craftsmanship, Latico’s heritage and expertise far surpass Portland Leather Goods.

Design Philosophy:
Thoughtfully designed with everyday versatility in mind, Latico bags feature hidden pockets, interior organizers, & key traps. Latico’s commitment to elevating organization and usability sets them apart from competitors.
PLG bags are made with thick, unfinished leather and raw suede interiors. While this gives them a rugged, natural look, it’s important to note that the interiors are unlined and lack organizational features, making them less practical for everyday use. The simplicity of the designs caters to a specific aesthetic but limits functionality.

Winner: Latico. Thoughtful, functional designs with premium organization features easily beat PLG’s minimal, unlined interiors.

Pricing Practices:
On average, Latico Leathers bags run from about $110 to $250. PLG’s price range is $88 to $212. I couldn’t help but notice that PLG seemingly has a perpetual, sitewide 25% discount. While this might seem like a great deal, its appeal is minimized by the reality that the sale price is always live. Practically speaking, their prices must be inflated before the discount. This practice is illegal under Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines and can be misleading to consumers, undermining trust in the brand’s pricing transparency. (I can vouch for this firsthand). The entire scheme made me wary of PLG and the company’s ethos… did I want to support them?

Winner: Tied. The cheaper price point makes PLG a more budget-friendly option compared to Latico’s premium offerings. That said, the authenticity of Latico Leathers’ pricing appealed to me and made me feel better about our entire exchange.

Sustainability, Awards & Charitable Efforts:

Try as I might, I was unable to find any information on PLG’s affinity for (or disinterest in?) in philanthropy and mindful production. Latico’s leather is ethically sourced as a byproduct of the meat and dairy industry, ensuring no resources go to waste. The brand is also Leather Working Group (LWG) and REACH eco-friendly certified, so customers can feel good about the environmental conscience behind their purchases.

Latico also won the 2020 Carlos Falchi Independent Handbag Designer Award, a testament to its superior craftsmanship and design. If all that wasn’t enough, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Latico initiated a charitable program bydonating 10 meals to Feeding America for every purchase made—a tradition that continues today, with over 150k meals donated to date.

Winner: Latico. With Eco-Friendly certifications, Latico leads the way in sustainability, an area where PLG offers no clear guarantees (or even interest). Given their extensive industry recognition and charitable initiatives, Latico’s social impact and craftsmanship set it apart from PLG.

The Bianca Tote/Crossbody vs. The PLG Medium Crossbody Tote

Functionality: Winner – Latico Bianca Tote. PLG’s open interior is ideal for simple, unstructured use but lacks organization. Bianca’s multiple zippered compartments, built-in wallet organizer, secure zip-top closure, and hidden phone pocket (!!) make it the more practical choice for staying organized on the go.

Personal Take: I tested the hidden pocket on the Bianca Tote during a busy day of errands andit was a lifesaver for keeping my phone both secure and accessible. See a photo below:

• Design: Winner – Latico Bianca Tote. The PLG Medium Crossbody Tote has a raw, minimalist appeal that feels natural and casual. However, the Bianca Tote’s sleek, structured design offers more versatility, making it equally suited for work, travel, or a night out.

• Personal Take: When I first picked up the Bianca Tote, I immediately noticed how buttery-soft and refined the leather felt, a stark contrast to the rougher, unfinished texture of the PLG Tote. While I appreciate the tough raw suede interiors of the PLG design, I found myself missing the practical organization features I rely on daily.

• Size & Capacity: Tied. The PLG Tote’s compact size is perfect for light essentials but falls short for those customers who need more space. Bianca’s larger, well-organized interior easily accommodates a laptop, notebooks, and other bulky necessities (without sacrificing style).

• Price: Winner – Tied. At $178, PLG offers value for a handcrafted, full-grain leather tote. Comparatively, Latico’s $220 Bianca reflects its added organizational features, buttery-soft leather, and versatility. At the ends of the day, are you looking for a more budget-friendly bag or a more premium heirloom-quality bag?

• Leather Quality: Winner – Latico Bianca Tote. Both use high-quality full-grain leather, but Bianca’s eco-friendly, smooth finish feels more refined and professional. PLG’s leather is thicker and rustic, great for those who love the patina look, but Bianca’s durability and polish win this round.

• Overall Verdict: Winner – Latico Bianca Tote. While the PLG Medium Crossbody Tote shines for its basic charm and affordability, the Bianca Tote delivers superior functionality, organization, and a polished design—making it the ultimate choice for modern, versatile lifestyles.

Upgrade your handbag game today: Get 20% off the Bianca Tote with code: BIANCA20—limited time only at LaticoLeathers.com. If you’re leaning toward PLG, their Crossbody Tote is available on Amazon here: PLG Tote on Amazon.

Customer Value:

Portland Leather Goods

PLG is an affordable option for those seeking entry-level leather bags. Minimalist construction, lack of organizational features, and potential durability issues.... While these bags offer a natural, rugged aesthetic, I found them to bebetter suited as “starter” leather bags rather than long-term investments. Additionally, the brand’s questionable pricing practices and lack of sustainability certifications may raise concerns for discerning, leather-loving consumers.

Latico Leathers

For those who value premium quality, versatile design, and sustainability, Latico Leathers is the clear winner. Its bags are meticulously crafted with functional features, premium finishes, and eco-conscious practices, making them a worthwhile investment for any wardrobe. The brand’s award-winning designs and commitment to charitable giving further enhance its appeal. In short, I'd say the over 40k+ 5-star reviews speak for themselves.

Get 20% off the Bianca Tote with code: BIANCA20—limited time only at LaticoLeathers.com.

Closing Thoughts

While Portland Leather Goods provides decent “starter” bags for those on a budget, they fall short in terms of quality, durability, and design innovation. In contrast, Latico Leathers stands out for award-winning craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and thoughtfully designed bags that combine style and functionality. With decades of experience, a focus on ethical manufacturing, and a commitment to giving back, Latico offers unparalleled value and quality. If you’re looking for a handbag that will last for years, elevate your wardrobe, and make a positive impact, Latico Leathers (in my humble opinion) is the brand to choose.

Get 20% off the Bianca Tote with code: BIANCA20—limited time only at LaticoLeathers.com.