7 Affordable Purse Brands That Straight-Up Look Like Luxury

Woman wearing a white outfit and holding a black handbag.

(Image credit: @aimeesong)

As much as I wish I could get my hands on every new designer bag, it most certainly isn't in my budget right now. But just because I can't spend too much doesn't mean I can't add a top-tier bag to my collection. There are a variety of bags in all price ranges, and if you know where to look, then acquiring an affordable yet chic bag isn't all that difficult. If you're on the hunt for luxe bags at a more affordable price point, then you've come to the right place. These brands are better than your average fast-fashion selections, but still less than many contemporary brands on the market.

Below, you'll find seven handbag brands that Who What Wear editors love and fashion people as a whole can't seem to get enough of. Some brands included in the mix are COS, Mango, Charles & Keith, Zara, and more. The best part? The options below are all mostly under $250, which you won't believe when you see how good they look. Keep scrolling to shop a range of affordable handbag brands. You're one step closer to your new favorite.

COS

In recent years, COS has become a fixture among fashion people for its designer-passing handbags. Its internet viral swing cross-body and studio bowling bag have an air of elegance that many love the Row for, but at a much more affordable price point. You can always bet on elevated handbag options from this retailer.

Mango

We already know Mango is the best location for trend-forward items and luxe-looking basics, but its handbag selection is worth looking at. Editor approved and under $250—what more could you want?

Zara

Editors flock to Zara for stunning clothing finds that keep them looking chic, on-trend, and sophisticated. Zara's handbag options are right there with the clothing. It's pretty easy to find an under—$200 Zara handbag that will confuse even the most savvy fashion person due to its expensive looking nature.

Madewell

Madewell has always been known for its quality basics—ranging from vintage-inspired denim to classic penny loafers. Now, however, the retailer has handbag offerings that will quickly become staples in your wardrobe.

Woman wearing a white outfit and holding a black handbag.

(Image credit: @aimeesong)

Charles & Keith

Back when I was in college and used to read Who What Wear on the daily, I discovered Charles & Keith. This brand is perfect for those with a minimalistic aesthetic, as its designs include unique but simple elements that draw attention, like gold accents and asymmetrical shapes.

 Anthropologie

I used to associate Anthropologie with the bohemian aesthetic, but its latest selection of bags says otherwise. While you'll still find bags within that look, you'll also find a great collection of timeless and trend-forward bags to choose from.

JW Pei

I own a few of JW Pei's bags, and people never believe me when I tell them how much they were. The brand designs fashion-forward bags that are perfect for the person who likes to change it up often when it comes to accessories.

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Chichi Offor
Associate Shopping Editor

Chinazor "Chichi" Offor is a Georgia-born, Los Angeles–based associate editor who relocated from Brooklyn, New York, and joined Who What Wear's West Coast office in 2022. At WWW, she utilizes over 10 years of editorial experience to dish out shopping advice to the masses and analyze key pop-cultural moments. Chichi previously worked at Refinery29, where she helped revolutionize the brand’s plus-size and inclusive fashion coverage. In her spare time, she’s keeping up with the latest movie releases, enjoying a relaxing day at the spa, or obsessing over her latest ADHD-fueled hyperfixation (e.g., Jesse McCartney's underrated career, the negative effects of bicoastal intellectual elitism, and Gen Z’s loneliness epidemic). You can find her online @thechichio on Instagram.