You already know my thoughts on the WIRKIN and the major shake-up happening in the luxury goods market. The days of spending more than a mortgage payment on a designer bag—or worse, settling for a knockoff just for the status—are over. I own bags that cost thousands and others that were $25, and guess what? Price doesn’t always equal style. The trick is knowing what to look for so you get that high-end, luxury look without the insane price tag.

Here’s the thing: not all styles are created equal, even within the same brand. Some handbags look cheap, while others look elevated and timeless—and the difference is all in the details. If you want a bag that looks expensive without the designer markup, skip the flashy logos and instead focus on shape, structure, and materials. A sleek, well-constructed silhouette will always look more refined than a trendy, overbranded piece that screams “fast fashion.”

Another key factor? Unique design. Bags with interesting details, structured shapes, and rich textures will always give off a more high-end vibe. Think about it—when was the last time you saw an ultra-chic, expensive-looking bag covered in tacky hardware or oversized branding? Exactly.

The luxury space is shifting, and in 2025, it’s all about finding original, unique, and most importantly, attainable pieces. The key is to shop smart—look for elevated design, quality craftsmanship, and timeless appeal without draining your bank account. Because looking chic should never come with a ridiculous price tag.


The Best Luxury Bags You Need Under $600

All Saints | E/W Tote

Work bag, travel bag—whatever you need it to be, this tote is beyond. It’s soft, slouchy, and spacious, fitting under a plane seat while holding everything without turning into a bulky mess. The versatile handles let you switch between shoulder and top-handle carry, but let’s be clear—just because it fits everything doesn’t mean you should be tossing your stuff in like an animal. Use pouches and stay organized.

Buy Now: Bloomingdales.com; $299

Leatherology | Kress Mini Top Handle Bag

What is there to say? This mini top-handle bag is classic, elevated, and effortlessly chic. The timeless silhouette gives it that polished, put-together feel, while the croc-embossed finish takes it to the next level—looking far more expensive than it actually is. It comes with a crossbody strap which makes this a great mom bag that you can wear from day to night. 

Buy Now: Leatherology.com; $300

Charles & Keith | Wisteria Canvas Belted Shoulder Bag 

This under $100 stunner looks like it would be found in a designer boutique. With its sleek gold hardware and pleasing two-tone design, featuring a leather strap and canvas bag, there’s something new that catches your eye each time you look at it. Also worth noting, it is crafted with at least 20% of sustainable materials as it is part of the brand’s eco-conscious collection.

Buy Now: Charlesandkeith.com; $83

Cuyana | Ola Bag

When we talk about a bag being unique or having special details, this is what we mean. Not only does the cherry red color feel expensive– and on-trend– but its gold, wave handle that mimics the bottom shape of the bag is simply stunning. If you’re not a top-handle person, it also has a shoulder strap.

Buy Now: cuyana.com; $458

Freja | Paloma Tote Bag

As much of a staple as a black bag is, a good one can be hard to come by. If you’ve been on the hunt for a structured and sensible, yet still totally chic work bag, look no further. The brand says this bag is its best-seller for many reasons including its compartments that can carry up to two 16” laptops, its side compartments that fit 13” laptops, and its many inside pockets that will help keep you organized. Arguably our fave feature, though, is its 2cm wide straps that make for easy carrying sans digging into our shoulder. 

Buy Now: Frejanyc.com, $368

Demellier | The Vancouver

A black crossbody is a must-have. It’s versatile, polished, and pretty much goes with everything. This one gets it right with a structured shape and gold bar lock closure that makes it look way more expensive than it is. It’s the kind of bag that works everywhere and with everything, guaranteed to earn compliments while holding up for years to come.

Buy Now: Demellierlondon.com; $535

Aallyn | Elara Convertible Bag

Talk about a steal, this convertible bag comes with three adjustable straps, allowing you to wear it as a shoulder, handbag, or crossbody. For someone who gets bored with their bags quickly and is always wanting something new, this is the one for you– its look can be switched up daily for a fresher vibe. 

Buy Now: Aallyn.com; $280

Radley | The Chancery Faux Croc

Nothing says rich quite like a gorgeous croc embossed bag. This one is made of croc-effect leather, so it’s able to ring in way below its designer counterparts but reads just as luxurious. While it’s a beautiful bag that’ll make a statement, it was also designed with care and can hold a 15” laptop, so it can easily double as an everyday tote. 

Buy Now: radleylondon.com; $348

Tory Burch | The Romy Bucket Bag

Bucket bags are back, but let’s be real—they come and go like a bad ex. That’s why this Tory Burch version is the move—it nails the trend without being a one-season wonder. The pebbled leather and soft, slouchy shape give it that effortless, thrown-together-but-still-pulled-together vibe, whether you’re rocking jeans or dressing it up.

Buy Now:  toryburch.com; $398

Roymi | Genuine Leather Large Capacity Single Shoulder Handbag

A certain twin-led designer brand has played a major part in bringing back suede, boho-like bags and we’re here for it. At only $59, this slouchy, cowhide tote in a rich mahogany will have everyone asking where your bag is from and you can delight in the fact that it costs less than half of your monthly gym membership.

Buy Now: amazon.com; $59

JW Pei | Lucia Classic Top Handle Woven Bag

Sophisticated and classic, but also modern and stylish, this woven top handle bag– with a shoulder strap– checks all the boxes. It’s the perfect mid-size bag that doesn’t feel so big that it overpowers you or so small that you can hardly fit more than a lip balm in it. The leather is soft and mushy, but it still maintains its ladylike structure. And at its reasonable price point, this bag is a good one to try out in a fun color– there are ten to choose from. 

Buy Now: jwpei.com; $129

Rheber | Crossbody Bag for Women Top-Handle Pouch L19 Bag

Bethenny loves this bag so much she has it in every color. It feels like real leather, but for less than $50 — yes, really. This is the perfect bag for when you’re on the go and need to keep your essentials close. Another super thoughtful component: its back is flat, so it will sit snugly on your hip rather than adding bulk. 

Buy Now:  amazon.com; $46

Quince | Italian Leather Handwoven Satchel

Let’s talk about the obsession with this bag. The Italian handwoven leather bag that is heavily inspired, screams “luxury handbag,” but its price point whispers, savvy shopper. This is the kind of bag that you can use forever and no matter how many times it winds up in the back of your closet, you’ll always be coming back for it. In addition to impeccable quality, the bag features a magnetic closure for easy opening and closure and two strap options so you can use it has a shoulder bag or crossbody. 

Buy Now: quince.com; $149

Coccinelle | Magie Suede Bimaterial Mini

With its rounded silhouette, turn-lock closure, and luxe mix of suede and leather, this bag is checking all the boxes. The gold detailing adds just the right amount of polish, and with six rich color options, it looks far more expensive than it actually is. It’s the kind of bag that instantly pulls a look together.

Buy Now: coccinelle.com; $375

Veronica Beard Mini Veronica Beard Dash Bag

Considered one of Veronica’s favorites, this bag– a mini version of the brand’s original structural-shaped carry-all– feels sharp and smooth at the same time. Crafted from supple leather and donning an adjustable belted strap with a top-handle option, there are endless ways to style her.

Buy Now: veronicabeard.com; $498

Bottom Line 

These 15 bags prove you can get that luxury look without the luxury price tag—because spending a fortune isn’t the only way to be stylish. Sure, they’re an investment, but they’re high quality, built to last, and way less precious than, say, an actual Birkin. And let’s be real—we love a high-low mix. Maybe you’ve got a designer bag (or a few) in your closet, but you also want to dabble in trends without the commitment—that’s where these come in. 

FAQs

What are the best affordable luxury handbags under $600?

  • Bethenny’s top picks include brands like AllSaints, Cuyana, and Demellier, offering high-end design without the designer price tag

How can I tell if a bag looks expensive?

  • Focus on structured silhouettes, quality materials, minimal branding, and unique details—these elements make a bag feel luxe without the hefty price.

Are affordable handbags as durable as designer bags?

  • Many mid-range brands prioritize craftsmanship, using genuine leather and quality stitching—meaning you can get designer-level durability for less.

Which handbag styles are trending in 2025?

  • Minimalist totes, woven leather bags, croc-embossed textures, and sleek top-handle designs are key trends that elevate any wardrobe.

Where can I buy high-quality handbags on a budget?

Back to Style