Stella McCartney
Falabella Faux-Leather Chain Handbag
The Stella McCartney Falabella is a small boxy handbag with a geometric silhouette, edge-to-edge silver-tone chain trim, and a chain shoulder strap. It is crafted from polyester faux leather with a worn-in look, lined with recycled polyester, and made in Italy; it measures 7 by 7 by 2 inches and closes with a magnetic snap. User reviews indicate the faux-leather body is durable over years of use, while the chain adds notable weight and can become uncomfortable on the shoulder during extended wear.
- Material
- Polyester faux leather with recycled polyester lining
- Gender
- female
- Style
- modern, minimal
- Category
- Luggage & Bags > Shopping Totes
Color
Size
Specifications
Geometric faux-leather chain handbag with magnetic closure and inner pocket, lined with recycled polyester.
Magnetic closure, inner pocket, chain strap, faux-leather construction, recycled lining.
- Material
- Polyester faux leather with recycled polyester lining
- Style
- modern, minimal
- Occasion
- everyday, date-night
- Gender
- female
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Dimensions
- 7x2x7 in
- Category
- Luggage & Bags > Shopping Totes
Additional Attributes
- faux leather
- recycled polyester lining
- magnetic closure
- inner pocket
- made in Italy
- chain strap
Product Insights
The Stella McCartney Falabella Faux-Leather Chain Handbag is an iconic IT bag since 2009, made from polyester faux leather that lasts 4–7 years without peeling or cracking, backed by B Corp certification for sustainable luxury. However, its permanently attached chain strap is heavy, digs into the shoulder, tarnishes over time, and requires professional repair; the interior fits an iPhone 15 Pro Max and passport but not a cased Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or continental wallet, and the chain can be worn long or doubled but not removed. At CAD 1450, many recommend buying pre-loved for better value, and while the 3-chain foldover model is considered fussy and less practical than the 2-chain, the bag remains a style icon best suited for evenings or light errands.
- Comfort
Heavy chain strap digs into shoulder, causes discomfort for extended wear.
Why this is supported
The chain strap is heavy and can dig into the shoulder. A Q&A response confirms:
the chain is notably heavy and can dig into the shoulder
Is the chain strap comfortable?. This makes the bag uncomfortable for prolonged wear, especially when loaded. One Reddit user adds:
I hardly ever use it, because it's very impractical for me.
u/francyfra79 in r/handbags. An owner of the 3-chain foldover tote variant comments:
the model I have (the 3-chain foldover tote) is fussy, it's difficult to make it look right and I find myself having to adjust the bag all the time
u/francyfra79 in r/handbags. Despite its aesthetic appeal, the heavy chain is a polarizing feature; one user notes that aside from the discomfort,
it's a cute bag.
u/No-Conversation-1030 in r/handbags.
- Strap removability
Chain strap is permanently attached and cannot be removed by the user.
Why this is supported
The chain strap is permanently attached. According to a Q&A response:
The chain strap is not designed to be removable by the user, as it is permanently attached to the bag's structure.
Is the chain strap removable or replaceable if it gets damaged or unevenly worn?This means the strap cannot be replaced or removed.
- Material
Polyester faux leather lasts 4–7 years without peeling or cracking.
Why this is supported
Owners consistently report that the polyester faux leather holds up much longer than typical vegan leather. For instance,
I’ve had my black falabella bag for around 7 years now and the fabric itself still looks great. It hasn’t stretched out, stained, torn or anything like that.
u/velvet_apricot in r/handbagsAnother user notes that even heavy abuse leaves it looking good:
she beat it to absolute shit and it still looked good.
u/chartreusepapoose in r/handbagsThe material is also described as softer and less shiny than high-street alternatives. However, the chain may develop tarnish over time, as noted by a long-term owner:
The only obvious sign of aging is on the chain, where it’s now a little discoloured from years of being held.
u/velvet_apricot in r/handbagsOverall, the fabric itself remains in excellent condition for 4–7 years, confirming the material's durability.
- Value
At CAD 1450, many recommend buying pre-loved for better value.
Why this is supported
The retail price of CAD 1450 is polarizing. Many experienced owners suggest offsetting it:
I'd honestly start with used.
u/chartreusepapoose in r/handbagsThe pre-loved market is seen as a way to get the bag at a lower cost while still benefiting from its longevity. Additionally, Stella McCartney's 2023 B Corporation certification adds sustainability value that many leather bags at this price cannot match.
- Design longevity
An IT bag since 2009, considered iconic.
Why this is supported
The Falabella has maintained its status as a design classic for over a decade. One owner notes:
It was the IT bag in 2009, which stood the test of time.
u/No-Conversation-1030 in r/handbagsIts enduring iconic appeal suggests the design holds value beyond the material debate.
- Tarnish
Buyers report chain tarnish over time; the faux leather body resists wear.
Why this is supported
Buyers frequently report that the chain is the first component to show tarnish. One user noted:
The only obvious sign of aging is on the chain, where it’s now a little discoloured from years of being held.
u/velvet_apricot in r/handbagsHowever, experiences vary. Another owner shared that after four years of everyday use the chain remained in pristine condition:
It is still in pristine condition, both the fabric and the chains.
u/DatAcid in r/BuyItForLifeAcross reports, the faux leather body resists wear well, even when the chain tarnishes. One buyer with seven years of use confirmed:
the fabric itself still looks great.
u/velvet_apricot in r/handbagsThis makes the chain condition a key indicator when evaluating pre-owned bags.
- Maintenance
Tarnish can be polished away; non-removable chain may require professional repair.
Why this is supported
For routine tarnish removal, the brand recommends using a soft dry jewelry cloth to polish the chain. As stated in the cleaning guidelines:
For the chain hardware, use a soft dry jewelry cloth to polish away tarnish.
How should the faux leather and chain hardware be cleaned and maintained?However, because the chain strap is permanently attached, persistent damage requires professional attention. The product FAQ notes:
If it becomes damaged or unevenly worn, we recommend contacting Stella McCartney or a professional bag repair service for assessment and possible replacement.
Is the chain strap removable or replaceable if it gets damaged or unevenly worn?Additionally, storing the bag in its dust cover away from direct sunlight and avoiding moisture or alcohol-based cleaners helps preserve the chain finish. The non-removable design also makes thorough cleaning more challenging, and abrasive polishing may risk further wear.
- Interior capacity
Fits iPhone 15 Pro Max and passport, but not cased Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or continental wallet.
Why this is supported
The interior dimensions (7 in. long × 2 in. deep) restrict fit;
phones longer than 7 inches, like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (6.8 inches) when cased, become incompatible.
What fits inside the Falabella — smartphone_accommodationSimilarly,
a standard continental checkbook wallet (7.5 × 4 inches) will not fit within the 7-inch length and will prevent the magnetic closure from engaging.
What fits inside the Falabella — wallet_fitOn the positive side,
A U.S. passport (4.9 × 3.5 inches) leaves ample room for a small cardholder and a couple of slim items, allowing the bag to double as a secure travel-document pouch for airport transit.
What fits inside the Falabella — passport_and_travel_papersAnd bulky items like
a full-size sunglass case or clunky key ring will bulge against the flap.
What fits inside the Falabella — cosmetic_and_key_capacity- Inner pocket
Inner pocket fits credit cards and folded cash.
Why this is supported
The inner pocket is
sized for flat valuables — credit cards, folded cash, or a slim transit pass
What fits inside the Falabella — inner_pocket_utility- Iconic status
The 2009 IT bag is still a style icon, though some find the 3-chain model difficult to style.
Why this is supported
The Falabella bag’s distinctive chain-trimmed silhouette is instantly recognizable and remains a design icon.
I still absolutely love the look of it (whenever I see a Falabella in any color combination, I always do a double take cos I'm so drawn to them)
u/francyfra79 in r/handbagsIt was the IT bag in 2009 and has stood the test of time, according to another commenter:
It was the IT bag in 2009, which stood the test of time.
u/No-Conversation-1030 in r/handbagsHowever, the 3-chain foldover tote variant is widely considered fussy and difficult to style neatly, undermining its everyday trendiness for some buyers. The bag is also often used as a showpiece for special occasions rather than a daily workhorse, reinforcing its cachet.
- Ethical cachet
Stella McCartney is B Corp certified, reinforcing the bag as a sustainable-luxury choice.
Why this is supported
Stella McCartney’s 2023 B Corporation certification positions the Falabella as a third-party-validated sustainable-luxury purchase, adding a layer of ethical cachet.
One long-term owner’s comment reinforces the brand’s vegan-luxury reputation:
I think many people who automatically dismiss Stella McCartney bags as plastic have not experienced her materials firsthand.
u/DatAcid in r/BuyItForLifeThis suggests the bag carries weight as a statement piece for environmentally conscious consumers.
- B Corp certification
Stella McCartney earned B Corp certification in 2023.
Why this is supported
The brand's B Corp certification provides independent assurance of its sustainability claims:
- Chain hardware
Chain is the main wear area; it tarnishes and cannot be replaced.
Why this is supported
The chain strap and edging are the main wear components. A long-term owner noted:
The only obvious sign of aging is on the chain, where it’s now a little discoloured from years of being held.
u/velvet_apricot in r/handbagsA Q&A answer elaborates that the silver chain may tarnish and reveal a bronze undertone. Additionally, the chain is
not designed to be removable by the user, as it is permanently attached to the bag's structure.
Is the chain strap removable or replaceable if it gets damaged or unevenly worn?This means that any damage or advanced tarnish requires professional repair, reducing resale value.
- Design variation
Buyers report the 3-chain foldover tote is fussy and less practical than the 2-chain.
Why this is supported
A buyer of the 3-chain foldover tote reports that it
. A summary review confirms:
The 3-chain foldover tote model is fussy and hard to keep looking neat; the 2-chain model is more practical.
gotcha- Strap adjustability
The chain strap can be doubled through side loops for a shorter shoulder drop.
Why this is supported
The strap's adjustability is described:
The chain strap is designed to be worn either as a single long strap for crossbody or over-the-shoulder carry, or doubled through the side loops for a shorter shoulder drop.
What is the drop length of the chain strap? Is it adjustable or can it be doubled?- Strap attachment
The chain strap is permanently attached and not user-replaceable.
Why this is supported
Regarding replacement, the brand advises:
The chain strap is not designed to be removable by the user, as it is permanently attached to the bag's structure.
Is the chain strap removable or replaceable if it gets damaged or unevenly worn?- Sustainability certification
B Corporation certified, unlike most high-street vegan leather.
Why this is supported
Stella McCartney holds B Corporation certification, providing a sustainability credential that fast-fashion faux leather brands typically lack. This certification makes the Falabella a more defensible purchase for environmentally conscious buyers comparing it against cheaper alternatives.
- Strap configuration
Non-removable chain strap can be worn long or doubled.
Why this is supported
The chain strap is permanently attached to the bag, confirmed by the brand's Q&A:
The chain strap is not designed to be removable by the user, as it is permanently attached to the bag's structure.
Is the chain strap removable or replaceable if it gets damaged or unevenly worn?However, the same source explains that the strap can be adjusted:
The chain strap is designed to be worn either as a single long strap for crossbody or over-the-shoulder carry, or doubled through the side loops for a shorter shoulder drop.
What is the drop length of the chain strap? Is it adjustable or can it be doubled?This provides two carrying options despite the permanent attachment.
- Day-to-night use
Buyers consider it best for evenings or light errands; heavy chain and small capacity limit daily practicality.
Why this is supported
Users report that the chain strap
digs through your skin
u/No-Conversation-1030 in r/handbagsand the 7-inch interior
accommodates a modern large-format smartphone
What fits inside the Falabella — smartphone_accommodationbut is too short for continental wallets or phones over 7 inches. It is widely seen as a
cute bag
u/No-Conversation-1030 in r/handbagsbest for evenings, though some use it as their
everyday purse
u/DatAcid in r/BuyItForLifeor as a
secure travel-document pouch
What fits inside the Falabella — passport_and_travel_papers.
- Storage
Inner pocket holds only flat items like cards and cash.
Why this is supported
The inner pocket is
sized for flat valuables — credit cards, folded cash, or a slim transit pass
What fits inside the Falabella — inner_pocket_utility, not for phones or bulky items.
- Cleaning
Wipe faux leather with a damp cloth and mild soap; polish chain with a jewelry cloth.
Why this is supported
The care guide specifies that
For the faux leather, gently wipe with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap if needed, then air dry. Avoid alcohol-based cleaners or abrasives.
How should the faux leather and chain hardware be cleaned and maintained?and that
For the chain hardware, use a soft dry jewelry cloth to polish away tarnish.
How should the faux leather and chain hardware be cleaned and maintained?. A long-term owner notes that the chain naturally develops a bronze discolouration over years, which polishing restores.
The only obvious sign of aging is on the chain, where it’s now a little discoloured from years of being held.
u/velvet_apricot in r/handbags- Chain repair
The permanently attached chain strap requires professional repair if damaged.
Why this is supported
According to the brand,
The chain strap is not designed to be removable by the user, as it is permanently attached to the bag's structure. If it becomes damaged or unevenly worn, we recommend contacting Stella McCartney or a professional bag repair service for assessment and possible replacement.
Is the chain strap removable or replaceable if it gets damaged or unevenly worn?
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Front-facing small square-shaped shoulder bag in black pebbled faux-leather with an attached silver-tone curb chain that trims the edges and forms the shoulder strap; round silver medallion hangs near top left front.
- Overall shapeBoxy square-to-rectangular silhouette with a slightly narrower top edge and flat base so the bag stands upright in the image; top corners are slightly angled.
1 region
x 0.17 · y 0.52 · w 0.66 · h 0.34 (high) - Material and finishBlack pebbled faux-leather surface with a subtle metallic sheen and fine grain texture visible across the front panel.
1 region
x 0.19 · y 0.54 · w 0.62 · h 0.28 (high) - Edge trimSilver-tone curb chain sewn into the perimeter seam, forming a continuous decorative trim around the front and side edges with visible whipstitching where the chain meets the material.
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.49 · w 0.68 · h 0.34 (high) - Shoulder strapSingle long silver-tone curb chain strap composed of the same link style as the edge trim, arranged in front of the bag in loose curves and extending out of frame on the right and left.
2 regions
x 0.06 · y 0.77 · w 0.88 · h 0.16 (high); x 0.38 · y 0.45 · w 0.30 · h 0.18 (high) - Hanging medallionSmall round silver medallion attached near the upper left front panel, disc has raised lettering around its rim.
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.57 · w 0.06 · h 0.06 (high) - Medallion text“STELLA MCCARTNEY”Partial
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.57 · w 0.06 · h 0.06 (medium) - Seam and stitchingVisible whipstitch detail where the chain is stitched into the bag along the top and side seams; stitching contrasts subtly against the black surface.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.49 · w 0.64 · h 0.12 (high)
Other
Studio product shot with neutral light gray background, soft shadow under the bag, even diffuse lighting and no props other than the bag's own chain strap laid out in front.
- BackgroundUniform light gray studio background covering the whole image.
- ShadowingSoft diffuse shadow directly beneath the bag and faint shadowing to the lower right, indicating overhead diffuse lighting.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.80 · w 0.60 · h 0.10 (medium) - Shot compositionBag centered in lower half of frame with generous empty space above; image crops some chain ends at left and right edges.
Colors
black with metallic sheen· body#21211Epolished silver· chain trim and strapsilver disc· medallion#BBBDBB- Overall shapeBoxy square-to-rectangular silhouette with a slightly narrower top edge and flat base so the bag stands upright in the image; top corners are slightly angled.
- 02
Product
Side/angled view of a black textured faux-leather handbag with a shiny silver curb chain used as edge trim and shoulder strap; the bag sits on a light surface and the chain extends onto the foreground surface.
- Overall shapeSoft-sided trapezoidal handbag seen from a slightly angled side view; front face slopes inward toward the top edge and the base appears flat on the surface.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.06 · w 0.78 · h 0.78 (high) - Exterior materialMatte, fine-pebbled textured faux-leather or suede-like surface covering the bag exterior, visible as dense small grain across the main body.
1 region
x 0.38 · y 0.22 · w 0.50 · h 0.55 (high) - Edge trim constructionShiny silver curb chain stitched or looped along the side and top edges of the bag, forming a continuous metallic border.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.08 · w 0.78 · h 0.84 (high) - Shoulder strap detailLong silver curb-chain shoulder strap that doubles as a handle; one segment drapes inside the bag opening and another segment extends across the foreground on the surface.
2 regions
x 0.20 · y 0.04 · w 0.40 · h 0.40 (high); x 0.06 · y 0.78 · w 0.60 · h 0.18 (high) - Side gussetLeft-side gusset panel visible with slight gathering and creasing, showing the bag expands inward from the trimmed edge.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.18 · w 0.28 · h 0.60 (high) - Top opening detailTop opening shows a row of dense stitching or braided trim where the chain meets the fabric, visible as a horizontal textured band at the bag rim.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.02 · w 0.44 · h 0.12 (high)
Other
Studio product shot on a light neutral background with soft shadow and even diffuse lighting; image is cropped so the rightmost edge of the bag extends near the frame edge.
- Background and surfaceUniform light gray background and matching light surface with a soft shadow beneath the bag.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (high) - Shot compositionAngled side/three-quarter crop focusing on the bag's left-to-front portion; right edge of the bag is close to the image border and partially cropped.
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.00 · w 0.60 · h 1.00 (high) - Lighting and reflectionsSoft, even lighting with specular highlights visible on the metallic chain but minimal glare on the matte bag body.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.02 · w 0.60 · h 0.80 (high)
Colors
matte black· bag body#0E0E0Apolished silver· chain trim and strap- Overall shapeSoft-sided trapezoidal handbag seen from a slightly angled side view; front face slopes inward toward the top edge and the base appears flat on the surface.
- 03
Product
Close-up of a small black pebbled faux-leather handbag interior showing chain trim, whipstitch edging, a magnetic snap, an interior card pocket with a black trim, and a pink satin lining with a repeating logo pattern.
- Exterior materialBlack pebbled faux-leather exterior with a slightly napped, textured surface visible on the flap and body.
1 region
x 0.05 · y 0.45 · w 0.60 · h 0.45 (high) - Whipstitch edgeRaised whipstitch binding along the bag edge where the chain is inset, formed from the black material folded and stitched over the chain trim.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.05 · w 0.72 · h 0.30 (high) - Chain trim and strapThick curb-style silver-toned metal chain used as edge trim and shoulder strap, visible running around the bag opening and draped across the interior.
2 regions
x 0.60 · y 0.00 · w 0.37 · h 0.45 (high); x 0.18 · y 0.56 · w 0.62 · h 0.28 (high) - Magnetic snapRound metal magnetic snap on the interior flap with small circular text around its rim.
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.14 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (high) - Interior card pocketInterior flat card or slip pocket edged with a narrow black trim, stitched to the lining and set along the inner back wall.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.33 · w 0.50 · h 0.27 (high) - Interior lining patternLight pink/rose-gold satin lining with a small repeating embossed or printed logo/monogram pattern visible across the fabric surface.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.36 · w 0.45 · h 0.35 (high) - Debossed label on pocket trimRectangular black patch on the pocket trim with debossed characters; text is shallow and partially legible.Partial
1 region
x 0.32 · y 0.42 · w 0.22 · h 0.10 (medium) - Snap rim text“Circular text around the magnetic snap rim; characters are visible around the edge but not fully distinct.”Partial
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.14 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium)
Other
Studio product shot focused on the bag interior with neutral light-gray background; soft, diffuse lighting creates mild highlights on the chain and low shadows inside the bag.
- Shot compositionTight close-up framing from an overhead angled view focusing on the open top of the bag and interior pocket.
- Background and surfaceUniform pale light-gray background with no visible props or packaging.
- Lighting and reflectionsSoft diffuse studio lighting producing subtle highlights on the silver chain and mild sheen on the satin lining; small specular reflections on metal surfaces.
- Image cropRight-side of the bag is cropped so the chain continues off-frame at the lower right corner.
1 region
x 0.75 · y 0.60 · w 0.24 · h 0.36 (high)
Colors
black· exterior body#0E0E0Bmetallic silver· chain hardwarerose gold pink· interior liningblack (smooth trim)· pocket trim and internal patch#0E0D09- Exterior materialBlack pebbled faux-leather exterior with a slightly napped, textured surface visible on the flap and body.
Documents & Data
Reddit Insights
6 threads · r/handbags, r/femalefashionadvice, r/BuyItForLifeReddit users have mixed feelings about the Stella McCartney Falabella: while many praise its quality and timeless design, the heavy chain and impracticality for daily use are significant drawbacks.
Positive sentiments focus on durability and style, while negative sentiments repeatedly highlight the bag's heavy chain and discomfort. Some consider it outdated, others find it iconic.
Themes
Use Cases
- Evening / night out
- Everyday errands (with light items)
- Not suitable for heavy loads (school/college)
Watch Out For
Compared To
vs Zara / high street brands
Stella McCartney's Falabella faux leather is considered significantly higher quality than typical high street vegan leather, being softer and more durable.
vs Prada nylon
One user suggested Prada nylon as a more durable BIFL alternative, while others defended Stella McCartney's materials.
Source Threads
Quality and weight concerns of the Falabella
It was the IT bag in 2009, which stood the test of time. The price doesn't justify being vegan and the chains on the bag make it really heavy even when it's empty. The shoulder bag digs through your skin after wearing it for a couple of hours. Aside from that it's a cute bag.
u/No-Conversation-1030r/handbagsView thread →
Falabella faux leather quality compared to high street brands
Tbf the quality of Stella McCartney bags is wayyy better than the sort of thing you’d get at Zara for instance. The faux leather on the Falabella is a little softer/not as shiny, which seems to make it more durable.
u/Celebrating_socksr/femalefashionadviceView thread →
Long-term durability and chain discoloration
I’ve had my black falabella bag for around 7 years now and the fabric itself still looks great. It hasn’t stretched out, stained, torn or anything like that. The only obvious sign of aging is on the chain, where it’s now a little discoloured from years of being held.
u/velvet_apricotr/handbagsView thread →
Impressions of the Falabella as an everyday bag
I have one, I bought it a couple of years ago. I still absolutely love the look of it (whenever I see a Falabella in any color combination, I always do a double take cos I'm so drawn to them), but I hardly ever use it, because it's very impractical for me. It's heavy and the model I have (the 3-chain foldover tote) is fussy, it's difficult to make it look right and I find myself having to adjust the bag all the time when I'm out to make it look nicer.
u/francyfra79r/handbagsView thread →
Durability despite rough use and recommendation to buy pre-loved
I worked with a girl in the mid 2010s who had this bag and she beat it to absolute shit and it still looked good. I'd honestly start with used.
u/chartreusepapooser/handbagsView thread →
Positive four-year experience with everyday use
I have one that I bought new four years ago (black with gold hardware) and use as my everyday purse. It is still in pristine condition, both the fabric and the chains. I think many people who automatically dismiss Stella McCartney bags as plastic have not experienced her materials firsthand.
u/DatAcidr/BuyItForLifeView thread →