Want to buy a designer bag? Read this first
You have dreamed about it for years, scrimped and saved every last penny, and as a result, you can finally buy yourself a designer bag. And while you may have set your sights on a Chanel 2.55 or even a Hermès Kelly, it isn’t until you walk to the check-out line that the sticker shock of such models begins to set in.
So while images of Hermès may haunt your dreams, with the average starting price of an Hermès Kelly being close to $12,000/£9,000 and a quilted Chanel 2.55 between $5,200/£4,250 and $10,800/£9,540, it may be wise to open your bag dreams up to other designers.
Here's what you should consider before buying your first designer bag
Regardless of the designer, when investing in a luxury bag, it’s wise to consider a few things before swiping your credit card.
- Timeless design and the re-wearability factor – If you want to splurge on a designer bag, stay away from trendy pieces and go for a timeless classic. Obviously what is “timeless” to you might not be for another person, so remember to ask yourself: “Is this a bag that I will want to re-wear in five, ten, or twenty years?”. If you’re looking for a truly classic design, bags like the Gucci Jackie, the Fendi Baguette, or even the Loewe Puzzle are all great picks.
- Seasonality – You want to get the most use out of your big investment—and get that Cost Per Wear down—, so it might be a good idea to consider the seasonality of your dream bag before purchasing. Can it be worn year-round or is there something about it (i.e., the material) that makes it limited to a certain season?
- Your wardrobe – Remember to think about your style and the colours you gravitate towards when choosing your designer bag. Getting distracted by pretty hues and shiny materials is easy, but you don’t want to end up a few thousands poorer with a bag that doesn’t go with anything else in your wardrobe.
- Size and style – It might seem obvious, but reflecting on your chosen bag’s size and style is fundamental. Whether you’re shopping for an everyday workhorse tote or a handbag for special occasions, make sure to check that it fits all your essentials. Don’t let yourself get distracted and go for a style that you know you’ll reach for again and again.
- Wearability – While we love novelty styles, if you’re only planning to invest in one luxury bag (for now), its wearability has to be a top priority. A maxi tote and a small clutch will never be interchangeable in their wearability and purpose, but it’s smart to invest in a bag that will look appropriate in most places, from work to the airport.
- Reasons for buying – While you don’t necessarily need a reason to treat yourself to a designer bag, sometimes it’s nice to tie the purchase to a milestone. For example, an important birthday, a promotion, or the birth of a baby are all important moments that deserve to be celebrated with a special purchase.
All these factors are pretty closely intertwined and it’s important to consider all of them before making a decision. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some stunning designer bags for (almost) every budget.
Don't sleep on these designer bag styles
Starting at less than $500, you can bring home a beautiful luxury bag that will remain stylish year after year. Put aside your Hermès dreams (for now) and take a look at these designer bags that are available for a fraction of the Kelly price.
Designer bags under $500
Although the price points for larger big-name bags typically start north of $500, you can still grab one of their smaller models, like micro and mini versions of the most popular bags, wallets, and card holders. Alternatively, why not explore more accessible designer brands? Bags from Elleme, Staud, See by Chloé, and by FAR are oftentimes available between $300 and $500.
Staud
Tommy beaded shoulder bag Red
$492.00
Mytheresa
-44%
by FAR
Handbags Brown
$304.00
$540.00
Yoox
Staud
Tommy beaded shoulder bag White
$415.00
Mytheresa
Staud
Beaded Couch Clutch Yellow
$485.00
Eraldo
Staud
Tommy beaded shoulder bag Red
$492.00
Mytheresa
Staud
Timmy Shoulder Bag Brown
$485.00
Eraldo
Staud
Owen suede shoulder bag Brown
$430.00
Mytheresa
-76%
by FAR
Handbags Blue
$135.00
$555.00
Yoox
Staud
Tommy beaded shoulder bag White
$492.00
Mytheresa
Staud
Timmy Beaded Shoulder Bag Orange
$485.00
Eraldo
Staud
Limona leather shoulder bag Yellow
$415.00
Mytheresa
-64%
by FAR
Handbags Black
$264.00
$735.00
Yoox
Designer bags between $500 and $1,000
This is the price range most commonly associated with designer bags, and you’ll be able to find a wide selection of brands, materials, and sizes. Many pieces from brands like Jacquemus, Jil Sander, Coach, Isabel Marant, and even Saint Laurent and Prada sit comfortably under the $1,000 mark. If you keep your eyes peeled for any sales you might even be able to score a usually more expensive bag.
Saint Laurent
Monogram Large leather pouch Black
$940.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Cassandre matelassé leather card case Grey
$860.00
Mytheresa
DeMellier
Hudson Small leather top-handle bag Brown
$715.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Cassandre leather card holder Grey
$750.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Cassandre matelassé pouch with strap Black
$960.00
Mytheresa
Self Portrait
Crystal-embellished floral satin clutch Black
$890.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Uptown canvas clutch Beige
$855.00
Mytheresa
-30%
DeMellier
Miami leather tote bag White
$630.00
$900.00
Mytheresa
Ganni
Kat Medium shoulder bag Black
$940.00
Mytheresa
-40%
Aesther Ekme
Midi suede shoulder bag Brown
$510.00
$850.00
Mytheresa
Missoni
Caperdoni Small sequined clutch Red
$910.00
Mytheresa
DeMellier
Siena leather crossbody bag Brown
$730.00
Mytheresa
Designer bags over $1,000
Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy you a selection of stunning designer bags (which, is kind of the same thing, no?). Starting at $1,000, the luxury world really is your oyster. From the Marni Trunk bag and Chloé Tess to the highly sought-after Hermès Birkin, scroll down for major bag envy.
Miu Miu
Nappa Leather Pocket Bag, Woman, Black
$3,400.00
Miu Miu
Gucci
GG Marmont Mini leather shoulder bag Black
$1,820.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Cassandre leather crossbody bag Red
$1,060.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Cassandre Mini croc-effect leather phone pouch Black
$1,075.00
Mytheresa
Gucci
Ophidia Mini GG canvas shoulder bag Beige
$1,095.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Cassandre patent leather phone pouch Black
$1,160.00
Mytheresa
Saint Laurent
Cassandre Envelope leather wallet on chain Black
$2,045.00
Mytheresa
Gucci
Ophidia Mini GG shoulder bag Beige
$1,165.00
Mytheresa
Gucci
Ophidia GG Canvas Mini crossbody bag Red
$2,015.00
Mytheresa
Alaia
Alaïa Le Mina Mini leather crossbody bag Beige
$1,290.00
Mytheresa
Burberry
Burberry Check Small leather-trimmed canvas tote bag Beige
$1,850.00
Mytheresa
Gucci
Ophidia Mini leather-trimmed shoulder bag Beige
$1,095.00
Mytheresa
Original text and content: Kayla Kuefler and Mio Paternoss
Updated text and content: Emma Trimboli