6 Under-$500 Handbag Brands That Look Like They're Four Digits

I fully admit that handbags are one of the few items—another being shoes—that I don't mind splurging on. A well-constructed bag, especially when it's leather, can be repaired and worn again and again. That being said, we all have a price range we're comfortable hovering in, and for me, that's under $500. It gives me the flexibility to purchase an of-the-moment bag trend without doing too much damage to my wallet, especially now that beloved designers like Staud, Brandon Blackwood, and Freja are making this season's It bags in the $200 to $500 range. I've rounded up all of the styles on my wish list––happy shopping!

MargeSherwood

After being founded in 2020, MargeSherwood has made massive waves online thanks to its minimalistic yet fresh-feeling handbags. The brand's rounded shoulder bags have become massive hits among the cool-kid crowd in Dimes Square and Ssense fans.

Freja

If you haven't heard of Freja yet, what are you doing? This viral handbag brand has been seen on Hailey Bieber, nearly every fashion editor I know, and Pinterest It girl Matilda Djerf. The bags are made with thoughtful vegan leather and an aesthetic reminiscent of '90s supermodels, so it's no surprise the brand has taken off into the stratosphere.

Brandon Blackwood

Brandon Blackwood is the people's designer, and the New York–based handbag label has made a splash among fashion insiders and everyday stylish customers. While the brand's classic ESR tote went viral in 2020, the label's structured, hardware-laden handbags are not to be missed—particularly its strong summer 2024 collection.

Osoi

This Seoul-based brand is a favorite of K-Pop idols and stylish TikTok teens who shop on Ssense. Most bags are polished, minimal, and perfect everyday additions to any closet.

Staud

Staud's intricate, beaded Tommy bags have long gone viral on TikTok and instagram, but the brand's more toned-down, chic options are not to be missed. Hero styles like the Moon bag and the Vivi shoulder bag come in smooth, expensive-looking leather and luxe suede.

Cult Gaia

Party-bag fans, this one is for you. Cult Gaia's whimsical, festive bags are sure to make a statement regardless of the occasion. If you're going to a wedding, graduation, first date, or post-work happy hour with friends, these intricate clutches will take any outfit from zero to 100 real quick.