Ask any fashion-loving person what they have on their dream shopping wish list, and they’ll likely mention at least one handbag. What can we say? We’re suckers for beautiful accessories. A few years ago, you could probably guarantee that the bags at the top of our lists would come from one of the biggest designers—something like Loewe, Gucci or Chloé. And, sure, those super-high-end bags still hold a place on our vision boards for special occasions and major milestones. But recently, with designer bag prices rising higher and higher, there is now a space for premium-looking styles that sit at the more affordable end of the scale, and they’ve been wooing us in just the same way.
Marisa Martins carries the COS crossbody bag.
The next level down includes some really exciting contemporary accessory brands, from Wandler and Staud to Neous and A.P.C.—all sitting in the £200-to-£700 price range and perfect for a payday treat to yourself or a big birthday gift. But what’s really got us bag-loving folks excited over the past couple of seasons are the seriously expensive-looking styles coming out of the high street.
Alexis Foreman wears a COS tote bag.
We’re talking supple, buttery leather styles and chic baskets that get our hearts racing almost as much as a brand-new Prada. COS, Arket, & Other Stories, Jigsaw and Mango have all stepped up their bag games recently to include minimalist takes on classic shapes that elevate any outfit just like luxury designer styles do, except these come in at around a tenth of the price.
So if you’ve been feeling like your wardrobe is missing a gorgeous bag of late, keep scrolling to see and shop the most expensive-looking styles on the high street right now.
Crafted from 100% woven leather, this minimalist dream of a handbag looks (and feels) so premium. It even comes with a drawstring pouch inside to keep everything safe.
The knotted detail and slouchy leather make this bag feel so luxe.
The buttery soft leather in the colour du jour makes it a 2022 must-have. It may be on the small side, but what it lacks in space it’ll make up for in wow factor.
We can’t decide what this bag’s best quality is: the beautiful beige suede or the chic triangular shape.
From holidays to weddings and summer outings, this shoulder bag will prove its worth pretty quickly. And there’s so much room to store everything from heels to snacks.
The classic tan leather makes this bag feel refined all year round.
You can always count on & Other Stories for expensive-looking, budget-friendly options. This one can be worn as a shoulder or crossbody.
If you told us this minimalist leather bag were designer, we’d totally believe you.
Looking for a carryall that’s chic first? I can’t stop recommending Arket’s new Leather Tote to anyone who will listen.
If you’re one of those people who are always carrying a canvas tote bag, it’s probably worth investing in a longer-lasting version like this.
Whether you’re going on a beach holiday or you want something to instantly bring all your outfits into together, this is your answer.
The combination of tan leather and beige canvas always looks expensive.
This chic double-handled tote is a great price for a real leather handbag.
Jigsaw is so good this season and not just for clothes, as this beautiful bag proves.
This crossbody bag has sold out so many times we’ve lost count. But this fresh blue version is too good to miss.
We just can’t get enough of the smooth curved lines on Arket’s new bags. This small crossbody version is perfect for everyday errands.
The perfect addition to any summer dress. Carry it as a crossbody or a shoulder bag with the shorter strap.
This is an influencer favourite for upgrading any outfit, across all seasons.
Anything in Bottega green feels effortlessly luxe. This minimalist crossbody will end up going with so many day looks.
The perfect carry-everything size for dashing around town. And it also comes in three other colours.
This stunning leather bag looks so good, you’ll fool everyone into believing it’s designer. Adding a pop of colour accessory to an otherwise simple outfit is an easy way to elevate any look.
