In the world of handbags, it can sometimes feel like there are only two options: A stunning, high-end designer piece, or that oversized tote bag you swore would only be for work but happens to be the perfect size for all your stuff. There is no in-between.
If you’re on the hunt for an affordable, everyday handbag that has doesn’t sacrifice on the style front, your options aren’t as limited as you may think.
In fact, there are a number of designers offering stunning, luxury-level bags crafted from quality materials for a decent price tag. And, when you factor in just how much wear a great affordable handbag can get you, the cost can feel more than worthy the money (that’s #girlmath).
The Best Affordable Handbag Brands
Here, we round up the best designers making chic handbags that don’t cost a fortune (and head here if you’re after affordable shoe brands too).
STAUD
This LA-based brand is all about accessible pieces with serious fashion cred, and their retro-fabulous handbags are a highlight. Toggle between croc-embossed, sequin-adorned and quirky shapes, all of which are surprisingly well-priced.
Prices: $270 AUD-$700 AUD
Shop via STAUD, The Iconic, Net-A-Porter
Vestirsi
Speaking of her desire to launch bag brand, Vestirsi, founder Monica Upton says: “I wanted real Italian leather…I didn’t want in-your-face logos. I just wanted something simple, but well-made.”
And, that’s exactly what you’ll find here; beautiful, timeless bags crafted from luxurious Italian leather.
Prices: $259 AUD-$499 AUD
Shop via Vestirsi
Carolina Santo Domingo
For the playful accent piece in an otherwise dreary work wardrobe, you can’t go past Carolina Santo Domingo’s functional-yet-eye-catching designs. From fun, fluffy raffia totes to her signature triangular ‘Amphora’ bag, the brand’s pieces are one-of-a-kind additions to your daily look.
Prices: $700 AUD-$1300 AUD
Shop via Carolina Santo Domingo
Bembien
Designed in New York City and brought to life in a village of artisan weavers in Bali, Bembien creates the kind of basket bags that will have you instantly dreaming of a holiday on the French Riviera. With the label recently expanding to offer silk scarves and must-have jewellery too, it’s your one-stop shop for the kind of accessories perfect for pretending you’re on a permanent European vacation.
Prices: $130 AUD-$370 AUD
Shop via Bembien
Aupen
Spotted on the arms of Kylie Jenner and Hailey Bieber, this Singaporean label creates stunning pieces that ooze quiet luxury with sleek asymmetrical designs.
Prices: $180 AUD-$490 AUD
Shop via Aupen
Poppy Lissiman
From gorpcore girlies to the Y2k-obsesees, Australian label Poppy Lissiman’s unique and edgy designs are a regular sight among the most coveted street style looks.
Prices: $120 AUD-$235 AUD
Shop via Poppy Lissiman, The Iconic
PB 0110
Sticking to a strictly minimalist design aesthetic, designer Philipp Bree’s handbags have become the cornerstone of cool-girls’ oufits in every corner of the globe, from his native Belgium to Venice Beach, Los Angeles.
Prices: $250 AUD-$1000 AUD
Shop via SSENSE
Dylan Kain
The brainchild of genetically #blessed sister trio Bonnie, Whitney and Stephanie Gilmore (yes, the six-time world champion surfer)—Dylan Kain is a range of simple leather handbags, elevated with metal hardware detailing and a chic crocodile effect finish. It-bloggers Rumi Neely, Alexandra Spencer and Elle Ferguson are all fans.
Prices: $340 AUD-$840 AUD
Shop via David Jones, The Iconic
