Horseracing in the Cotswolds. Pastoral glamour. Soles that are built for rough and tumble. Rural vogue. Practical luxury. These words and phrases come to mind when I think of Fairfax & Favor, a modern British heritage brand founded by childhood friends Felix and Marcus. It’s a household name in the English equestrian world and in countryside communities across the pond, with a cult-following for its Regina boots, the tasseled beauties that come in three calf-widths for a perfect fit. In the United States, it has its share of loyal followers and is available at a few stockists.
Felix Favor Parker, left, & Marcus Fairfax Fountaine
I’ve loved Fairfax & Favor ever since I saw a photo of Kate Middleton wearing the leather Reginas. Her timeless elegance – indeed sprinkled with bucolic charm – has always been my favorite. The high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship of the brand kept prices out-of-reach for me in the earlier half of my twenties, but I recently got hold of one of their stunning handbags. The truth is that Fairfax & Favor offer accessibly-priced, timeless pieces – crafted to last a lifetime without the usual luxury price tag.
My prized possession – aka my little bit of Fairfax & Favor opulence – is the Mini Massingham, a leather handbag that encapsulates quiet luxury with its vintage-inspired silhouette. Fairfax & Favor bags are 100% leathermark certified; I had no doubt of this when I opened the dust bag for the first time and got a whiff of that earthy, all natural warmth that is characteristic of fresh leather.
My Mini Massingham is in the chocolate color, a dream come true not only for autumn but for the summer of 2025, when brown has become the unexpected color of the season. I’ve been able to style this already for brunches with friends and even outings in the city, taking a bit of Fairfax & Favor to the bustling streets of Manhattan. Although “mini,” this bag is Mary Poppins-style, fitting every essential I could possibly need in its large zippered compartment, small inside zippered pocket, and secure exterior flap.
Reminiscent of the doctor bags that are currently on-trend, the Mini Massingham is a perfect balance of in-season and classic. Top-handle bags are my favorite, and this is no exception – I love carrying this either in the crook of my arm or in hand. The richness of the hue is so pleasing to the eye, reminding me of a decadent dessert, that I’ve decided I need a matching pair of boots.
The Massingham also comes in a crossbody and regular-sized handbag version. The brand offers myriad other styles of bag as well, including the iconic Mini Windsor, an adorably chic little number that has garnered a devoted fanbase, some of whom boast the complete collection of colors (another thing to add to my wishlist…).
Channel British luxury with Fairfax & Favor, pioneers of rural vogue, and bring a bit of English countryside to you.
