While most of us dream of Chanel, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton, they’re often not the brands that fill our closets.
Unless you have the bank balance of a Kardashian, you likely own more attainable mid-tier fashion brands than their luxury counterparts.
These brands are an ideal alternative to brands that sell their bags for a four- or five-figure sum. You can jump on the latest trends and enjoy a well-constructed bag without breaking the bank.
We’re looking at eight of our favorite mid-tier luxury brands and what they offer. Read on to learn more about the must-have affordable designer bags to buy right now. Trust us. They’re all an instant ‘add to cart.’
1. Coach: A Modern Revival
The American luxury fashion house Coach has made a remarkable comeback. Though its resurgence can be attributed to the revival of early 2000s trends, the brand has also undergone a significant transformation to exude a more luxurious vibe.
Coach is the perfect match for you if you want a leather bag without paying thousands of dollars. The brand has increasingly shifted its focus to a younger demographic, injecting bold colors and contemporary silhouettes into its collections.
American brand Coach is known for popular bags such as Tabby, Willis, and Swinger (Credit: Roman Zaiets / Shutterstock)
The “Pillow Tabby” shoulder bag is one of the biggest handbag trends right now. It’s all over our social media feeds.
The bag is virtually sold out in its two most iconic shades of pink and white, with neutral-tone colors still available at Coach. If your heart is set on a lighter shade, be prepared to go on the hunt!
Coach Pillow Tabby 26 Shoulder Bag, $495
A modern take on the archival 1970s Coach bag featuring a plush padded leather finish
This bag is available in several materials, from Coach’s signature canvas to classic leather. The “Tabby” bag is also available in a top-handle version if you prefer a more ladylike option.
Coach Tabby Two-Way Bag, $489 – $537 at Farfetch
A two-way version of the Tabby style that features a single top handle and a removable crossbody strap
Coach has also released a smaller “Tabby 18” size for their squeezable handbag. If you’re a fan of mini bags, you’ll want to jump on this style.
Another 2000s-inspired bag worth checking out is the “Swinger” bag in signature jacquard. You can imagine Paris Hilton or Nicole Richie carrying this bag through downtown LA in a velour tracksuit.
It’s a cheaper alternative to the Pillow Tabby bag and can be used as a shoulder bag for day or nighttime wear.
Coach Swinger Shoulder Bag, $353 – $402 at Farfetch
Featuring streamlined jacquard and leather trims, the Swinger is part of the archival-inspired Coach Originals collection
2. Kate Spade: Quirky, Feminine, and Affordable
Kate Spade is one of the standout affordable fashion brands. If you’re a fan of quirky styles, there is no better brand for you. Kate Spade is unapologetically feminine and offers on-trend handbags at an attainable price point.
Kate Spade New York is known as an affordable luxury brand that won’t cost you a fortune (Credit: UcigPhoto / Shutterstock)
In March 2021, the brand announced the departure of its Creative Director, Nicola Glass, who oversaw the transformation of the brand.
If you’re looking for a work bag, the “Margaux” has become one of the brand’s signature silhouettes. It’s available in several patterns and colorways at Kate Spade, with top-handle and crossbody options.
Kate Spade Margaux Bag, $408 – $459 at Farfetch
The Margaux features a structured silhouette with multiple compartments, a top zip closure, and a removable crossbody strap
Kate Spade has been increasingly duping the silhouettes of luxury fashion houses while still giving the bags a quirky twist.
If you want an affordable alternative to the Prada Re-Edition bags, check out the Kate Spade “Little Better Sam” nylon shoulder bag.
You get the look and feel of the early 2000s trends with three color options: bubblegum pink, emerald green, and classic black. This bag is a perfect choice if you don’t want to splurge on a trend.
Kate Spade Little Better Sam Bag, $148 at Kate Spade
Kate Spade’s Little Better Sam is a cheaper alternative to Prada’s nylon shoulder bag
The “Picnic Gingham” Small Bucket Bag is part of the brand’s spring/summer collection. While it’s an online exclusive, it’s a must-have for anyone with a preppy fashion aesthetic.
The gingham print is a go-to print for the Kate Spade brand, and the bucket bag silhouette is having a major moment.
Add this style to your wishlist if you want a bag to carry around your champagne bottles and summer treats!
Kate Spade Picnic Gingham Small Bucket Bag, $298 at Kate Spade
A small yet spacious bucket bag that features gingham fabric with smooth leather trims and a drawstring closure
Another noteworthy Kate Spade bag is the “Locket” large flap shoulder bag. If you want the feel of a classic flap bag with a contemporary twist, this style is the choice for you.
The straw style is a must-have for summer wear and features a chain strap that can double as a crossbody. The bag is big enough to hold all your essentials, including smartphones, up to an iPhone XS Max.
Kate Spade Locket Large Flap Shoulder Bag, $378 at Kate Spade
A classic shoulder bag with a turn-lock locket flap closure and a chain-and-leather strap
3. Tory Burch: Affordable Luxury for the Modern Woman
Tory Burch is here to the rescue if you’re a fan of brands like Chanel, Hermes, and Dior but can’t afford the price tag. This American brand has a classic aesthetic, focusing on timeless styles that will last you a lifetime.
Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Petite Bag, $498 – $598 at Saks Fifth Avenue
Lee Radziwill is an impeccably crafted leather bag that has the label’s signature lock-and-key hardware
The “Lee Radziwill” bag pays homage to the famous socialite sister of Jackie Kennedy. While the collection includes several silhouettes, the “Lee Raziwill Double Bag” is the standout silhouette.
The collection is a best-seller for Tory Burch and has a similar aesthetic to the Hermes Kelly bag – at a fraction of the price!
Tory Burch Lee Raziwill Double Bag, $998 – $1,356
A practical yet classy bag that has plenty of room and a wraparound buckle that can be undone for a slouchy look
Another signature collection within the Tory Burch brand is the “Kira” Bag. It’s been given an update with the “Kira” Crochet Mini Bag.
If you’re a fan of the cottagecore or vintage-inspired aesthetic, this bag is a modern-day carpet bag.
Tory Burch Kira Crochet Mini Bag, $378 at Tory Burch
The Kira bag is made from crocheted natural raffia and features the label’s double T logo
The beauty of Tory Burch is in its subtle use of logos, with the reflecting metal ‘T’ shapes being its predominant logo.
It’s the focal point of the “Eleanor” small bag, which turns the logo into a structural element of the bag without being a loud monogram.
For a minimalistic feel, you can purchase this bag in a monochrome option, with the logo matching the color of the smooth Italian leather. This convertible style can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag.
Tory Burch Eleanor Bag, $680 at Farfetch
A structured Italian leather bag with jewelry-inspired twisted rope chain strap and hand-painted edges that emphasize the clean lines
4. Dooney & Bourke: Designer Style Without the Designer Price Tag
Dooney & Bourke is an affordable fashion brand you don’t want to overlook if you’re looking for classic designs.
The brand is a go-to choice for women who prefer a more understated look, with the small square metal logo being the only giveaway that the bag is by a designer.
Dooney & Bourke is one of the most popular mid-tier American brands, collaborating with household names like Disney to create exclusive bags.
The “Sorrento” Satchel has a Miu Miu-inspired feel, reimagining one of the Italian brand’s most famous bags, the Vitello Lux.
This bag is the perfect choice for an everyday accessory, with a top-handle and shoulder strap option. It’s available in eight colors, including mauve pink and wine red.
Dooney & Bourke Sorrento Satchel, $428 at Dooney & Bourke
A longtime icon, the Sorrento features a classic satchel look with buckled straps and a detachable crossbody strap
The silhouette is similar to the “Beacon” zip domed crossbody for Louis Vuitton Alma bag fans. As one of the brand’s signature silhouettes, it’s available in ten colors.
It’s made using smooth leather and can carry all your essentials while being an ideal bag for your next city adventure or trip abroad. The ‘pale blue’ shade is an on-trend color.
Dooney & Bourke Beacon Zip Domed Crossbody Bag, $198 at Dooney & Bourke
A compact crossbody bag that can carry your day-t0-night essentials
If you’re considering a Dooney and Bourke bag, watch for their regular sales and promo codes. You might be able to grab yourself a bargain on a classic style.
5. Rebecca Minkoff: Affordable Luxury for the Fashion-Forward
Rebecca Minkoff should be your go-to designer for contemporary bags that are seamlessly on-trend. Her bags have a similar feel to luxury brands like Balenciaga, Celine, Gucci, and Valentino.
This American designer is on the affordable end of the pricing spectrum, giving you a timeless but on-trend style that can see you through every season.
Fashion designer Rebecca Minkoff attends the 26th Annual QVC Presents “FFANY Shoes On Sale” Gala on October 10, 2019, in New York City (Credit: John Eddy / INSTARimages)
The “Megan” studded feed bag has a similar feel to the iconic Gucci Jackie bag. It has a structural design that makes it easy to grab what you need in a flash, with the dog-clip hardware adding a contemporary feel.
The adjustable leather shoulder strap means you can customize the bag to fit your height and preference.
Rebecca Minkoff Megan Studded Leather Feed Bag, $348 at Nordstrom
Perfect for daytime adventures, the Megan bag features a minimalist, structured design with the signature dog-clip hardware to secure your stuff
If you’re hunting for a top-handle satchel bag, look for the brand’s “Edie” bag.
You can carry this bag through every season, with the washed indigo denim adding another Gucci-inspired flair to the Rebecca Minkoff collection. You can carry this bag by its top handle or with the adjustable shoulder and crossbody strap.
Rebecca Minkoff Edie Bag, $198
The Edie bag features a diamond-quilted denim design that brings a laid-back finish to a casual look
For fans of the classic Saint Laurent shoulder bags, the “Edie” flap shoulder bag with fringe gives you the signature silhouette with a 70s-inspired twist.
While the chevron leather detailing gives the bag a luxury feel, the gold hardware keeps it timeless and ties into the Rebecca Minkoff aesthetic.
Rebecca Minkoff Edie Flap Shoulder Bag with Fringe, $258 at Rebecca Minkoff
The Edie bag has been given a spring update with fringes that give off a ’70s vibe
One of Rebecca Minkoff’s most iconic designs that date to the brand’s original surge in popularity is the “M.A.B” Crossbody.
It’s worth adding to your list if you want to update your OG version of the bag or if you want a minimalistic style with buttery soft lambskin leather.
Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B. Crossbody Bag, $198 – $248 at Nordstrom
Rebecca Minkoff’s latest version of the iconic M.A.B. bag features edgy stud embellishments down the sides
6. Fossil: Affordable Luxury with a Minimalist Aesthetic
Fossil is one of the most popular budget-friendly American brands. Keep an eye out for promo codes and discounts that can help you save a little extra off your handbags!
The Fossil aesthetic revolves around minimalist styling, streamlined silhouettes, elevated basics, and leather.
Fossil is an American company known for affordable watches, wallets, bags, and accessories (Credit: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock)
If you’re looking to add a 70s feel to your accessories closet, consider adding the “Maya” Hobo to your wish list.
This bag is one of the brand’s best-sellers and features adjustable shoulder and crossbody straps, along with a zip pocket and padded interior tech pocket. It’s an ideal bag for carrying around your laptop or iPad. You can even use it as an elevated diaper bag.
Fossil Maya Hobo Bag, $238 at Zappos
Fossil’s bestseller is sturdy and spacious enough for your laptop or iPad
You’ll remember the “Tabby” bag from Coach that we featured earlier. The “Jolie” Crossbody is Fossil’s take on the popular silhouette, with eight color options for you to choose from. It also features the classic Fossil key as a bag charm for added elegance.
Fossil Jolie Crossbody Bag, $178 at Zappos
Carry your essentials and more in this timeless yet chic Jolie crossbody bag
Another bag worth highlighting is the “Rachel” satchel. If you’ve always wanted a Louis Vuitton Speedy but don’t want to pay the price tag, this bag is an affordable alternative.
It’s made using the brand’s signature eco-leather, with the interior being made up of recycled polyester.
Not only is the bag on-trend, but it’s also sustainable and budget-friendly. The Rachel is one of the most popular Fossil bags, making it an instant ‘add to bag’ if you find it in stock.
Fossil Rachel Satchel, $137.95 – $177.95 at Zappos
Sustainable and stylish, the Rachel satchel is made from eco-leather and features a classy structured silhouette
7. Furla: Affordable Access to the Latest Bag Trends
Another affordable brand that we had to include is Furla. You’ll get some of the biggest bag trends at a fraction of the price. You’ll want to check out two styles for your next shopping trip.
Furla is an Italian handbag brand known for high-quality feminine bags and purses (Credit: Roman Zaiets / Shutterstock)
The “Opportunity” tote is a dupe of the Christian Dior Book tote, a trend that we’ve seen replicated by other luxury designers like Marc Jacobs.
This Furla version has the same on-trend jacquard fabric with an ethnic motif. Whether you’re searching for a travel tote or one you can use for work, this bag is a must-have for your collection.
Furla Opportunity Tote, $288 – $348 at Furla
Furla’s Opportunity tote is a chic large shopping bag made from jacquard fabric with an ethnic design
For those who enjoy a ladylike – or Kate Middleton-inspired look – the “Furla 1927” is a classic silhouette. It has a similar feel to multiple bags from the ‘big four’ luxury brands, featuring a crocodile print calfskin and twistable metal Furla logo closure.
The metal stud feet mean you don’t have to worry about setting this bag on the ground. It’s a fuss-free on-trend bag that is a budget-friendly classic piece.
Furla 1927 Bag, $498 at Furla
Made from croc0skin calfskin leather, the 1927 features a sophisticated look with a metal Arch logo turn-lock closure
8. Longchamp: The Essential Bag for Every Woman
No affordable bag list is complete without mentioning Longchamp. Every woman needs at least one “Le Pliage” bag in their collection. It’s the ultimate bag for any city girl or jet-set traveler.
French leather goods company Longchamp is known for affordable luxury handbags, leather goods, and accessories (Credit: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock)
Le Pliage is one of the main ranges within the iconic French brand’s handbag range.
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote, $110 – $145 at Nordstrom
The Le Pliage is Longchamp’s most popular bag style, made from nylon with embossed leather trims
If you own a Le Pliage and want to try something new, we’ve got just the bag for you. The “Le Pliage Filet” top handle bag is lightweight and foldable.
You can carry everything from your groceries to flip-flops and bikini in this bag. It incorporates the classic Le Pliage closure with a colored net for a nautical-inspired look.
Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Bag, $95 at Longchamp
The Filet is a net shopping bag that features the Le Pliage leather handles
While these bags are amongst the most popular in the world of fashion, you can make them your own. One of the main trends around these bags is to have them professionally painted to make them a one-of-a-kind piece to add to your collection.
Even more expensive fashion brands like Loveshackfancy are starting to offer this in-house service within some of their boutiques.