Find the Best Affordable Bag Brands that Look Expensive

Looking for the best affordable bag brands, and by best I mean – handbags that are not only made well but also stylish, is quite the challenge. My personal qualifications for a great handbag would include that it’s made of real or vegan leather and the ability to look stylish for more than just one season. The reason I lean toward leather or vegan leather handbags is simply that they’re more durable and last longer. Most women are unable to change their handbags on a daily basis so chances are your handbags will take a lot of wear and tear.

In addition to lasting longer, a good quality leather/vegan handbag is hard to ignore and will create the illusion you’re wearing more expensive clothing even when you’re not. Now it’s not always possible to afford a leather handbag on a tight budget so this is when it’s important to pay attention to the details of a bag such as top-quality stitching and hardware (buckles, push locks, etc.). Quality details will elevate a bag even if it’s not made of real leather or vegan leather. These were the qualifications I used to create this list of the best affordable bag brands and some of my top picks from each brand.

1. Anthropologie

Anthropologie has really stepped up its handbag selection in the past few years. A beautiful mix of on-trend and classic handbag styles to choose from. It’s a must-visit when on the hunt for the best affordable handbags.

Chocolate Brown Slouchy Bag, $98

^{*Also, available in other colors*}

East West Shoulder Bag, $118

Slouchy Shoulder Bag, $98

2. JW PEI

JW PEI has exploded on the scene as the favored vegan leather handbag brand with minimalist designs and affordability that is hard to resist. I personally own the mini flap bag in the brown croc, it’s wonderfully constructed and durable. As an added bonus, use code SS2023 for 10% off your order!

Carly Nylon Shoulder Bag, $79

^{*Also, available in other colors*}

Mini Croc Flap Bag, $89

^{*Also, available in other colors*}

90’s Ruby Shoulder Bag, $99

3. Mango

Mango creates a beautiful selection of the most covetable leather handbags each season and with price tags mostly under $100 they are a win win.

Black Leather Flap Shoulder Bag, $129

Shopper Buckle Bag, $59

^{*Also, available in black*}

Red Shoulder Bag, $59

^{*Also, available in black*}

4. J.Crew

The handbags, I personally own, that have received the most compliments were purchased at J.Crew. Yes, many of their leather goods are pricey for the budget shopper but they also do manage to sneak in a bag or two that are more affordable. And if you’re patient enough to wait until an extra discount is offered (particularly during the Holiday season or the end of seasons) you can walk away with a great quality purse to love forever.

Edie Leather Flap Bag, $198

^{*Also, available in other colors & payment plan with afterpay*}