I Tested AUPEN’s Newer, Bigger Bags—Are They Worth It?
Next, I’m manifesting a clutch for evenings and a travel tote. AUPEN, are you listening?
AUPEN has quietly become the if-you-know-you-know brand — one day it’s on Taylor Swift, the next, Anya Taylor-Joy or Charli XCX. Alongside my Toteme coat, The Row sandals, and that Alaïa dress I still can’t believe I splurged on, AUPEN’s now part of my forever capsule wardrobe.
In today’s economy, I’ve stopped chasing trends and started choosing pieces that truly earn their place in my wardrobe. I’m no longer drawn to the latest TikTok sensation that fades as quickly as it appears. What drew me to AUPEN was its design integrity — a quiet yet youthful confidence that doesn’t mimic, doesn’t chase, but carves its own identity through distinct designs.
When I got my hands on the original Nirvana — a sculptural, asymmetric style — it quickly became my go-to. Effortlessly unique, endlessly wearable. From coffee runs to dinner dates, it was truly versatile. However I couldn’t help but wonder... what if they made it just a little bigger?
Now, they finally did that - freshly launched since AUPEN’s partnership with LVMH, the Nirvana collection has a major upgrade: bigger sizes, new materials, and luxe craftsmanship upgrade.
I got to test out some of the new styles, and here’s my honest take. Grab your iced coffee and let’s get into it.
Nirvana Deluxe
The Nirvana Deluxe is finally here - this is the one that I’ve been waiting for. It’s a size upgrade from the original Nirvana, and honestly, it does everything. While the original is super cute, it couldn’t fit bigger stuff. With the Deluxe, I can now throw in my water bottle, a notepad, even light gym clothes - all without losing that sleek, sculptural look. I tested the Nirvana Deluxe by taking it from a morning meeting straight to the gym for a whole week— and it fit everything: my headphones, notebook, even a granola bar (because snacks are never optional). Out of all the new bags in this review, this one is my first choice. It fits so much and still looks effortlessly cool — finally, a bag that works as hard as I do.
Nirvana Buckle
The Nirvana Buckle is a simplified version of the original Nirvana. With the shoulder strap now adjustable, it can fit under your arm even if you are bundled up in jackets or thick sweaters. The adjustable strap is a gamechanger if you’ve got a bigger frame or just love layering.
Overall, the sleek and clean shape of the Nirvana Buckle makes it easy to style with anything — especially if the braid detail isn’t your vibe. Whether I’m dashing out for coffee or heading to dinner, I can just grab it and go. No overthinking, no outfit panic. It just works. Kind of like a best friend — always reliable, effortlessly chic, and never trying too hard.
Nirvana Crochet
The Nirvana Crochet is AUPEN’s answer to those dreamy vacation bags we see in Jacquemus, Cult Gaia, and Loewe’s sun- soaked collections. But this one? Honestly it feels a little more me.
It’s giving Santorini sunsets, breezy maxi dresses, and just the right amount of glam. I took it to test it out on a beach day in Bali — it’s actually waterproof, tanning oil-resistant, and somehow kept my phone, keys, and lip gloss cool, even under the sun. And for the over-packers, there’s the Crochet Deluxe — her bigger, beachier sister that fits everything from sunscreen to a towel to that novel you’ve been “reading” for three summers. Whether I’m grabbing gelato or pretending that my walk down the boardwalk is a runway, this bag just gets it. Summer plans? Handled.
Nirvana Chain
For my fellow style lovers — allow me to introduce the Nirvana Chain. Out of Aupen’s latest drop, this one would be the cool girl of the group. With its interchangeable strap, you can wear it crossbody when you’re running around the city, or switch to shoulder mode when it’s time to dial up the glam. And that gold chain? Just the right touch of polish with a whisper of rebellion.
I wore it double chained on my shoulder to a cosmetics launch villa party and easily changed the shoulder chain into a crossbody as I danced into the night, hands-free and carefree, never missing a beat. Okay — if I’m being a little picky, I wish it came in silver hardware too...
AUPEN’s new bags really hit the spot for me this time, especially the Nirvana Deluxe. Whether you’re craving a size upgrade or a hands-free moment, there’s a Nirvana out there for you in this drop. Next, I’m manifesting a clutch for evenings and a travel tote. AUPEN, are you listening?