Ask any fashion-loving person what we have on our shopping wish list, and we’ll likely mention at least one handbag. What can we say? We’re suckers for beautiful sidekicks. A few years ago, you could probably guarantee that that bag 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 dream vision boards for special occasions and major milestones. But recently, with designer bag prices rising higher and higher, a space has been created 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 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 point 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.
We’re talking supple, buttery leather styles and chic baskets that get our hearts racing almost as much as a brand-new Prada. And luckily, it’s all our favourite go-to high-street destinations that seem to have gotten the memo. 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 in the same way as the most luxury designer styles—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% leather, this minimalist dream of a handbag looks (and feels) so premium. The strap can be adjusted to wear it as a shoulder bag or crossbody too.
A slick version of the baguette shoulder bag and the perfect going-out option.
The buttery soft tan leather and minimalist detailing is just so good. Plus, there’s plenty of room for carrying your laptop, snacks and other essentials.
We can’t decide what this bag’s best quality is: the beautiful beige suede or chic triangular shape.
From holidays to weddings and spring outings, this shoulder bag will prove its worth pretty quickly.
The gold detailing and leather handle make this raffia bag feel refined all year round.
You can always count on ASOS Design for expensive-looking, budget-friendly options.
If you told us this minimalist leather bag were designer, we’d totally believe you.
Looking for a carryall that’s chic first? We can’t stop recommending Arket’s new Leather Tote to anyone who will listen.
If you’re one of those people who’s 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 wanting something to instantly bring all your transitional outfits into spring, this is your answer.
The combination of tan leather and beige canvas always looks expensive.
Can you believe this luxurious laptop-perfect tote is only £20? We can’t either.
Jigsaw is so good this season, and not just for clothes as this beautiful bag proves.
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.
An understated saddle bag is a sure-fire way to elevate any outfit, as you can see here.
Saint Laurent? No, Mango!
We still can’t decide if we prefer the black (above) or creamy off-white version of this design. They’re both so good!
The chunky strap and gold hardware are really winning us over here.
Squishy, banana-shaped bags are bang-on trend right now but also timeless enough to last in your wardrobe for many years to come.
If you’re wanting to go even more classic, it also comes in black.
