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).
![sequin-bag](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/08/affordable-brands.jpg)
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
![affordable-bag-brands](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/media/116411/affordable-brands-1.png)
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](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/media/77859/02.jpeg)
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
![affordable-bags](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/media/116409/best-pencil-skirt.png)
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](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/media/116410/affordable-brands.png)
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
![affordable-bags](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/media/116413/affordable-brands-2.png)
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](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/media/77862/05.jpeg)
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](https://www.marieclaire.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/media/77865/08.jpeg)
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