For the third of our “Affordable Luxury” posts (read the write-ups on Clothing Brands and Shoe Brands if you missed them), we have decided to bring you….purses!
As you know, purses come in all shapes and sizes and in a HUGE range of price points, and there are great items throughout the range. We own the fabulous Uniqlo crossbody ($20) and we own an iconic YSL purse ($2000)…and you’ve probably heard stories of the famous Hermes Birkin bag that costs tens of thousands of dollars!
Here, we are giving you “affordable luxury” offerings under $1000 (some much less than that). We know this is a lot of money, but these are high-quality bags that will last a lifetime! And, if you missed our interview with the top-selling Nordstrom Luxury Handbag seller you can get caught up here.
Offering everything from wallets to clutches to cross-body bags to totes, Mansur Gavriel has lots of terrific offerings. Designed in NY and made in Italy, their designs are very streamlined and elegant. We love this everyday hobo bag that comes in a variety of colors and this shoulder bag which is a great luncheon or evening option. This is the next size up of the shoulder bag, that comes in 6 color options.
Sustainably made in Europe, every purchase helps fund vaccines and treatments aimed to save the child of a life in need. All the bags of the London-based company are lovely, but their totes really catch our eye, like this one. Complimentary monogramming.
Well known for her beautiful clothes, Veronica Beard also has beautiful bags. We love this suede bag/tote as well as this everyday crossbody bag. We also have our eye on this beautiful chain-strapped, suede shoulder bag where the chain can be doubled up or made longer for cross-body use.
Great modern shapes and materials. Good evening and going-out bags like this or this. A different look than the other bags on this list and worth a browse!
These handcrafted woven leather bags have a Bottega Veneta look to them. Their totes, which can act as everyday purses, are great sizes/shapes.
Most of this English brand’s lovely bags are over $1000, but this smaller one comes in under so we snuck it in – for everyday when you just have your phone and keys and a couple other items and want your hands free.
The nailheads are the signature embellishment of this great mid-range bag company that’s free of a lot of logos but has great designs, like this suede crossbody bag and this super versatile bag that we love for everyday.
APC:
Simple lines, not logo heavy and beautiful. We love the Vera that comes in 5 color options as an everyday bag, as well as the Virginie Flap Bag for a bit more dressier option.
So many great shapes and textures. We love the Maude Stachel and the Valerie Shoulder Bag, but this is also the place to check out for fun beaded (over 25 choices!) and more sculptural options!
For a bit edgier/more boho bag, this line often has added detail such as top stitching, studs, or tassels to liven things up! Have a look at this shoulder bag, this wide strapped option, or this suede hobo bag.
Some of this brand is over our $1k limit, but this this lovely bag that could be used for evening (or daytime) beautiful, and this large drawstring tote make the cut!
