The 17 Best Affordable Handbag Brands That Ooze Luxury, According to Experts

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Without the residuals from a worldwide stadium tour or a TV deal, how often can you say you have the same bag as Taylor Swift or Kendall Jenner? We’ll tell you: Anytime you’re carrying clutches and totes from affordable bag brands like Aupen, By Far, and Mansur Gavriel. The very best ones deviate from dupe culture, which often features unoriginal designs made with lower-quality materials. Truly excellent budget-friendly brands tout styles with the same level of craftsmanship and luxe materials (like rich Italian leather and velvety suede) as designer handbags, and put forward their twist on beloved silhouettes like crossbody bags, shoulder bags, slouchy bags, and tote bags. Many times, they have the very same qualities that draw us toward labels with eye-watering prices, such as their use of sustainable materials and celebrity stamps of approval. 

Besides bragging rights, there are even more reasons to shop from one of the best affordable designer handbag brands, like the fact that our carryalls are strapped to our sides 24/7 and, as a result, face a lot of wear and tear, according to author and fashion stylist Heather Newberger. “While I can live with the idea that someone may accidentally spill a drink on my everyday bag, I can’t really get behind my designer bag being destroyed by something as nonchalant as nail polish being knocked over at the salon,” she adds. If your beach bag plans on touching sand, your bag for work has a sticky subway commute, or your overnight bag is subject to the inside of the overhead bin, a designer pick may not be the most practical choice. 

Then, you have to think about what affordable means to you. Is a $40 bag actually “affordable” when it inevitably breaks in a month? As NYC-based fashion stylist Audree Kate López explains, “If the bag is $200 and you wear it three times per week for a year, it’s less than a dollar per wear,” as opposed to a cheaper bag that falls apart after one wedding reception. 

Contemporary designer bag brands are everywhere, if you know where to look: New labels seemingly emerge out of thin air on a daily basis, and classic heritage brands unleash iterations of cherished styles quarterly. Suffice to say, we have plenty of affordable bag brands to choose from. To narrow down the list, we created this guide with expert tips and product picks to find the best, most high-quality affordable purse brands for anyone’s needs. 

Updated May 2025: This article on the best affordable handbag brands was updated with new editor product picks and trending brands. We are currently testing additional affordable handbags for consideration in this guide.

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DeMellier

Chances are, you’ve seen DeMellier’s New York Tote on the arm of at least one chic woman on your Instagram feed. The London-based label has become a bag brand favorite amongst fashion insiders and editors for its streamlined, minimalist designs that embody quiet luxury. The attainably-priced bags are loved for their incredibly chic and modern shapes and versatility of day-to-night styling. Take the best-selling New York Tote, for instance: sleek and logo-free, it lends that Old Céline aesthetic for fans of the Phoebe Philo era. Available in leather, suede, or croc-embossed finishes, it’s a luxe staple that’s equally practical and spacious enough to fit all your daily essentials, laptop included. With prices ranging from $345 – $795, DeMellier’s bags are crafted using sustainably sourced materials at family-run factories in Europe, offering luxe quality at a mid-tier price point.   

Along with its cache amongst the fashion set, DeMellier bags have also been spotted on celebrities like Katie Holmes and members of the British royal family, including Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle. Whether you opt for the New York tote or one of the nano top-handle bags, the brand’s understated luxury is sure to stand out. 

Verafied

Founded as a slow fashion brand that prioritizes quality materials and craftsmanship paired with elevated, modern design, Verafied offers luxe bags for under $400. Don’t let the affordable price points and on-trend styles fool you, though: the New York-based label designs its bags in small batches to remain zero waste and committed to its sustainability mission. 

Along with its mindful design values, this under-the-radar accessory brand has a modern, sculptural approach to its bags. The architectural, sleek shapes are balanced by rich textures like suede and patent leather that pack a punch when worn on the shoulder — and feel way more luxe than their price tag. And while there are trend-inspired bags, like a canvas, leather-trimmed tote and ‘90s-inspired zebra shoulder bag, each design is timeless enough to remain a classic in any wardrobe.

St. Agni

St. Agni is quickly cementing its status as a must-know brand, thanks to a growing fan base of celebrities and fashion insiders alike. Founded in Australia, the brand offers ready-to-wear clothing and accessories with a neutral, minimalist aesthetic that’s landed the seal of approval of Kendall Jenner, Meghan Markle, and Jennifer Lawrence, to name a few. And whilst St Agni’s capsule wardrobe essentials have become instant favorites amongst the A-list, the brand’s bags are just as worthy of attention. 

With most bags ranging between the $200 and $500 range, St. Agni’s bags are a master class in subtle details that look luxurious. From mini lattice weave crescent bags to buttery-soft leather clutches and sharp East-West silhouettes, the bag designs are modern classics that look way more luxe than their price tags.

Aesther Ekme

Refined, sleek, and sensual: Aesther Ekme’s bags master the art of understated elegance. Founded in 2016 by Stephane Park, the brand name translates to “shoulder bag” in Persian, which serves as the simple ethos behind the brand’s DNA and mission: functional, high-quality bags designed to “fit and follow the body seamlessly.” 

Described as a fusion of Brazilian modernism and Scandinavian minimalism, Aesther Ekme has become known for its sculptural silhouettes that prove less is more. The brand’s most popular signature style, the Demi Lune Shoulder Bag, sums up what it does best: sleek, architectural design that manages to stand out in a market full of thriving minimalist brands. In addition to its popular asymmetrical style, Aesther Ekme’s soft suede baguette bags and Phantom Tote are standouts in the contemporary collection. With prices ranging mostly from $300 to $700, this bag brand is ideal for those looking to make a timeless handbag investment that transcends trends.

Freya

In just five years since launching, Freya has impressively cemented its status as a go-to bag brand for chic work totes and been spotted on the arms of Hailey Bieber, Katie Holmes, Gabrielle Union, and more celebrities. Founded by Jenny Lei, Freya launched with just one bag: its now bestselling Linnea Tote, which was inspired by the designer’s search for the perfect laptop bag to carry to an interview. The brand has since expanded to sleek, on-trend shoulder bags like the Chrystie and the Mercer, which offer trending mini bags for the days when you don’t have to carry around your laptop. 

Crafted from high-quality vegan leather and priced between $248 and $548, Freya’s bags strike a thoughtful balance between style, sustainability, and function. The totes remain the brand’s bestsellers for a reason — the spacious design is functional enough for all your daily essentially, but the sleek shape and vegan leather hold up in terms of quality, making them a staple in the modern working woman’s wardrobe. 

Brandon Blackwood

Brandon Blackwood first founded his namesake brand in 2015 with a backpack design. Fast-forward to today, and the New York-based label has evolved into a contemporary brand offering handbags, footwear, outerwear, and activewear. While Blackwood has expanded category offerings, the bags remain the heart and soul of the brand thanks to the trendy, ‘It’ girl-worthy designs that offer quality bags at an affordable price. 

Blackwood’s bags have become a favorite among celebrities, with fans including Kim Kardashian, Cardi B, Doja Cat, and Tracee Ellis Ross. But it was in 2020 that the brand made a major cultural impact with the release of its “End Systemic Racism” tote that went viral in the aftermath of the George Floyd protests and calls for civil justice in America, transforming the accessory into both a fashion statement and a call to action. That mini bag—still part of the core collection—is now a signature piece, available in a variety of textures, colors, and finishes.

Beyond the bestselling mini trunks, Brandon Blackwood’s range includes sleek leather shoulder bags with chain straps, sculptural mini bags, and bold statement pieces like a crystal-encrusted taxi cab clutch made with 3,000 crystals. With prices ranging from $88 to $475, the brand offers high-impact design and style at a price point that feels refreshingly attainable for designer bags. 

Liffner

Founded in Stockholm by Paulina Liffner von Sydow, Liffner is a brand for those drawn to the effortless elegance of Scandinavian style. Since its launch in 2012, the accessories label has remained a favorite amongst fashion editors thanks to its chic designs and quality craftsmanship. From belted suede bucket bags to woven leather totes and the sculptural, editor-loved Tulip Bag, Liffner offers spacious designs that make the perfect everyday bags without sacrificing style or function.

The bags are all crafted in small batches in Italy using ethically sourced leathers from the same region. With most styles priced between $400 and $700, Liffner hits the sweet spot of accessible luxury—timeless, beautifully made bags that you’ll reach for season after season.

Hereu

What started as a small shoe brand with just four styles has evolved into an accessories label offering a range of high-quality shoes, bags, and small leather goods. Inspired by the laidback elegance of the Mediterranean, Hereu’s bags and shoes are all made in Spain by local artisans to honor traditional craft, high quality, and an emphasis on sustainability. 

Hereu first launched bags in 2016 and has since expanded its collection to span from mini leather top handle carryalls to raffia beach bags to the popular Calella Tote. The brand’s commitment to quality and design can be seen in the details: braided lambskin top handles, buttery-soft leather pleating, and leather-trimmed raffia that looks luxe. While there are playful pops of color, a mix of textures, and a wide range of silhouettes to choose from, every Hereu design evokes a sense of that effortless Euro Summer look. But the bag collection transcends warm weather, with its leather minis and canvas totes working as year-round staples whether you’re lounging along the Mediterranean or clocking into the New York office. 

Aupen

Can you think of a better way for a brand to get on the map than Taylor Swift sporting one of its styles? That’s the case with Aupen. Beyoncé, Gabrielle Union, Jennifer Lawerence, and Selena Gomez also count themselves fans of this affordable luxury handbag brand, giving it major star power in just its first couple years of business. But even without these celebrity style sightings, we’re confident the brand would continue to experience its dramatic skyrocket to fame.

The handbags are unquestionably sexy, as evidenced by the Swift-worn Nirvana bag’s curvaceous silhouette and how Selena Gomez offered endless appeal carrying the Purpose Ice in hand. And, to appease the eco-conscious consumer, Aupen’s manufacturing practices are certified by the well-credited environmental organizations Amfori, Control Union, and Global Recycled Standard.

 

Quince

Quince is known for its high quality fabrics and offerings at comfortable price points, and its handbags are no exception. Its selection is modern and minimal, offering a myriad of high-style options between everyday bags, mini bags, and stylish totes in supple materials. The brand uniquely ensures affordability by reimagining the traditional supply chain formula in order to keep top-quality goods accessible, without cutting corners on sustainability and ethical manufacturing.

Framed in top-grain Italian leather and lined with cotton canvas, the bestselling Quince Italian Leather Crossbody Bag plays as crossbody or clutch for day to night, while the stylish Handwoven Pouch Crossbody Clutch evokes overtones of quiet luxury in a chic and versatile silhouette. The best part? They’re never priced over $160.

Hunting Season’s selection shines as a relatively wallet-friendly celebrity favorite, as we’ve seen the elegant handbags and raffia totes styled by effortless dressers from Taylor Swift, Katie Holmes, Nicole Kidman, Kate Bosworth, and Hailey Bieber. The brand excels in ethical and refined artisan-made designs that are worth the small investment, with handmade weaving and leather molding that’ll stand the test of time.

Mansur Gavriel

Sure, Mansur Gavriel launched with just two bags under its belt in 2013, but like the brand’s star-studded cast of admirers, its line of silhouettes has grown tenfold. It’s not uncommon to see tastemakers like Taylor Swift and Sara Jessica Parker pose for paparazzi photos with the Cloud Leather Clutch in hand. Meanwhile, Katie Holmes has opted for the oversized Candy Hobo in the silhouette-du-jour and an oversized iteration of the brand’s iconic Bucket Bag.  

Mansur Gavriel’s designs aren’t the only way the brand takes liberties. In addition to crafting its cute affordable handbags with criminally soft, supple Italian leather, it also experiments with different sustainable practices such as the partial apple leather bag made from recycled skins of the fall fruit (yes, really). The best part is how this affordable Italian bag brand touts a variety of styles that range from practical laptop bags to the sculptural M Frame bag and furry bucket bags accented with bows, opening the door for every type of consumer.

Ganni

Though Scandinavian brand Ganni is over two decades old, leave it to internet darlings like Emma Chamberlain and a strong social media presence, (#GanniGirls, anyone?), to keep its mainstay among the fashion community. As illustrated by the brand’s use of oversized collars and playful proportions, it will not be denied from having fun, and similar to its apparel, its handbags don’t take themselves too seriously, either.

We suddenly feel like we’re back in math class while holding Ganni’s delightful collection of hexagonal and square-shaped bags — each becomes more exciting when you delve inside to reveal leopard print lining or equally thrilling design detail. And who wouldn’t smile while swinging the extended knotted handle of the Raffia Bag from their hand? Make no mistake, despite their quirky appeal, these bags boast the same high-quality and eco-conscious materials as Ganni’s clothing. As a bonus, most of the bags are made from recycled leather.

Polène

This French family-owned brand captured the hearts and wallets of your most stylish friends, fashion influencers, and the TikTok community. Polène bags even (fittingly, we might add) played a recurring role in the series “Emily in Paris” — we’re still lusting after the Yké in Epuisé that swung off Lily Collins’ wrist in the series. You can add the royal seal of approval to this brand’s resume, too, as we clocked Kate Middleton carrying the Numèro Sept Mini Handbag. 

We’re not surprised that Polène is popular among princesses and celebrities alike, considering all of the brand’s bags are made with rich Spanish and Italian leather crafted in Ubrique, Spain, a village famous for its leather goods. Additionally, each design touts curved edges, waves, and folds which lends them a touchable and artistic appeal fit for the boardroom or the ballet. 

Its designs keep functionality in mind too, as many of the shoulder bags feature adjustable straps so you can wear them under your arm or as a crossbody. Between their durability (take a look at this TikTok that literally tears one apart to show its impeccable craftsmanship), universal silhouettes, and rich neutral tones, you can count on these bags as enduring wardrobe staples.

By Far

You can feel like you’re part of the family every time you sport a handbag from this twin sister-run brand. By Far manufactures all of its bags in family-owned factories in Bulgaria and Spain, where craftsmen pay sharp attention to detail, as evidenced by the fine, nearly imperceptible stitching and elevated materials featured in every design.

And if you don’t immediately recognize the By Far name, you’ll most definitely recognize its bags. Kendall Jenner has slung the ‘90s-inspired Rachel affordable shoulder bag over her shoulder a time or two. And the Amber bag keeps good company with Hollywood elite like Kaia Gerber, Selena Gomez, and Bella Hadid. While many of its carryalls have minimalistic designs, anyone seeking an option with more pizzazz can still find vibrant shocks of pink and chain link hardware intermixed throughout its collection.

What to Look for in an Affordable Bag

Material: “Leather or faux leather is still your best friend when it comes to choosing a high-quality material for your bag,” says Newberger, who adds that nylon is another great option because it’s easy to clean and durable. López agrees and suggests opting for more unconventional materials like tweed, wicker, and straw bags to add additional personality to your carryall.

In addition to steering clear of cheap-looking materials such as polyester and polyurethane, López tells us to avoid plastic or overly shiny hardware. Instead, she suggests looking for minimal hardware and invisible stitching, adding that we should skip contrast and colorful stitching, because “this can make the bag feel juvenile, cheap, and not timeless,” she says. That doesn’t mean the fun is forbidden. As Newberger points out, design details like beading, unique handles, ruching, ties, and zippers can punch up the appearance of an affordable purse, regardless of material. “Each of these things offers the consumer something additional and helps justify the cost,” she adds.

Silhouette: In general, our experts agree that avoiding super trendy silhouettes and purchasing minimalist handbags is the best way to make an affordable handbag look more expensive than it is. Still, Lòpez says you can lean into the trends and have a multi-use, versatile piece by choosing a bag in a classic neutral color, and one made with high-quality materials, like Italian leather.

Additionally, you can’t go wrong with classic crossbody bags, or even belt bags as these are ideal for everyday wear since they allow you to go hands-free and keep the purse close by your side while you navigate through busy shopping centers and streets. 

Size: “I believe that you need at least three bags in your closet,” says López. She recommends a small clutch for special occasions, a large leather or canvas tote bag to function as your catch-all bag for work and travel, and a go-to everyday purse such as a medium-sized crossbody bag. Most importantly, your bag should be large enough to fit whatever items you need that day. Purchasing structured bags with compartments and pockets can keep the bag looking sleek and polished, even if the inside is bulging with your life’s essentials. 

Purpose: Before Newberger chooses the type of bag she’ll be carrying for the day, she considers how far she’s traveling, who she’s seeing, and even the weather.  “If I see rain in the forecast whatsoever, I’m choosing an affordable bag over a statement one,” she says. 

Above all, functionality is key, says López, who adds that you wouldn’t bring your work tote to a wedding or grab a micro-clutch before heading out for a long day with multiple pit stops. She asks herself, “Can it fit my phone, cards, keys, lipstick, and whatever I’ll need for the day? Does the work tote fit my laptop, chargers, water bottle, etc.? Does the bag have a zipper or snap closure for security and safety?” 

How We Selected the Best Affordable Bag Brands 

Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.

When it came time to find the best affordable handbag brands, we set out to give our readers an in-depth point of view on the best styles and designers in the market. First, we researched hundreds of the most popular handbag brands, styles, and silhouettes to discover the best affordable handbag brands for 2024. Then, we narrowed it down even further to divulge our top favorites. To ensure all bags were thoroughly researched properly, we read thousands of online reviews and talked to industry experts, including López and Newberger. For other styles, we enlisted additional research help from the WWD Shop editorial team and sought inspiration from our own closets. While we all have personal favorites, our list includes the best handbag brands that are durable, on-trend, and don’t sacrifice style or quality for price. Learn more about us here.

Why Trust WWD

Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Experts

Audree Kate López is a fashion stylist, blogger, and editor who’s worked on projects with brands like Marc Jacobs, Alice + Olivia, J. Crew, and Club Monaco. After styling clients and various celebrities in the past six years, she’s well versed in which accessories elevate an outfit, and the right handbag is chief among them. Although Lopez is partial to her Prada Saffiano Leather bag, she’s a firm believer that many affordable bag brands offer products with the same luxurious look and feel, and she often chooses ones from this very list for her everyday bags.

Heather Newberger is a wardrobe stylist, writer, and author of How to Date Your Wardrobe. She’s offered advice to publications such as NYLON, Marie Claire, InStyle, and the Wall Street Journal, including on the subject of handbags. Not only can she share which bag will look best with your outfit, but she also has an eye for understanding what types of handbags you’ll reuse over and over again.  

Meet the Authors

Lauren Alexis Fisher is the Senior Style Commerce Editor at WWD and Footwear News, where she writes and edits fashion, beauty, and lifestyle stories. Previously, she served as Senior Editor at Cosmopolitan and Market Editor at Harper’s BAZAAR, where she oversaw digital content from fashion features to news and product reviews. With over a decade of experience as a digital fashion editor, she’s an expert in scouring the internet for the greatest emerging brands, top-rated products, and latest trends to shop. Fisher updated this guide to the best affordable bag brands for 2025 with new bag styles, new purse brands, and emerging trends in the designer fashion market.

Irene Richardson is a Brooklyn-based writer who covers fashion and beauty for brands such as InStyle, Byrdie, Brides, Travel + Leisure, and Footwear News. Her very first designer handbag was a Chloé Small Saddle Bag, which she has barely touched since moving to New York City since she finds it too fragile for long subway commutes and crowded sidewalks. She saves it for special occasions and opts for several bags from brands on this list instead. They allow her to blend in with the most fashionable residents in the city without worrying they’ll get destroyed or lose their luxe looks, and she frequently consults her coworkers, roommates, and friends about what are the best types of bags that fit their city lifestyle. Richardson did the original reporting for this story when first published.

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