I still remember a Saint Laurent Loulou being one of the first designer handbags that stopped me in my tracks as a teenager—worn with the ultimate early 2010’s outfit of skinny jeans, sky-high platform pumps and a statement necklace.
It took a quick search online to find the exact outfit, only to have my eyes water at the realisation that handbags could cost that much.
While my style has evolved since then, I can certainly say that my taste for expensive handbags definitely hasn’t.
The Best Mid-Range Designer Bags, According To marie claire
- Best Overall: $19.99", text="Rubi- Tory Clutch Bag at Cottonon
- Best Leather: $10 at Cottonon
- Best Vegan: Cotton on
- Best Statement: Myer
- Best Embroidery: Staud Tommy Beaded Bag, $540
- Best Clutch: Cult Gaia The Caldera Clutch, $1,012
But while I’m waiting for the day that I can walk into a Loewe or Khaite store and confidently spend multiple thousands of dollars on a bag, I’ve come to discover some more affordable, but equally elevated bag brands.
These mid-range designer bags are having a moment, led by influencers on TikTok taking the plunge and selling their Hermes bags in exchange for more accessible alternatives.
Sitting at around $1,000 or less, these bags still offer premium craftsmanship, but without the four-or-five-digit price tag.
Best For: Baskets bags
LIÉ STUDIO is all about creating timeless, functional accessories that outlast fleeting trends. The Bianca tote embodies that philosophy, offering just the right amount of space for your beach towel, SPF, and favourite sandals.
Crafted in Madagascar with black raffia strips and soft leather trims, this tote captures the breezy glamour of a coastal getaway—no passport required.
Best For: Premium leather
SABEN are a B-Corp certified brand that hail from New Zealand with handbags, and small leather goods made from premium quality leather. From work to travel, there are a range of bags to suit all needs.
The Hana Shoulder Bag is a lightweight hobo style bag made with a bubble-textured leather. It features a wide shoulder strap and spacious interior, making it perfect for daily use.
Best For: French craftsmanship
Founded in Paris in 1948, Longchamp offer classic silhouettes and a touch of je ne sais quoi. You’ll find pristine, French craftsmanship in their leather goods such as handbags, but also across ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories and travel goods.
Le Roseau is an east-west shape bag made with durable, grained leather and comes in six shade variations. Internal pockets and card spaces make this a handbag worth investing in.
Best For: Vegan leather
Exclusive to The Iconic in Australia, Freja NYC is a conscious label founded in 2019, built on values of inclusivity, sustainability, and thoughtful design.
The Caroline Bag, like all Freja NYC styles, is crafted from vegan ultrafiber leather for a soft, supple feel. With a minimalist 90’s-inspired silhouette and zero hardware, it’s designed to pair effortlessly with any look—timeless, versatile, and completely cruelty-free.
Best For: Everyday styles
Australian brand, The Horse pride themselves on pared-back practicality. The brand cover ranges for work, travel and leisure, and design products that can be easily added to your everyday rotation.
A consistent sell-out, the Clementine Bag is crafted from soft, textured leather and designed to be worn multiple ways. Slouchy yet structured, it’s roomy enough for your essentials while remaining effortlessly comfortable to carry from morning to night.
Best For: Home-grown handbags
St. Agni is a Byron Bay-based label that embraces considered design and a minimalist aesthetic. With carefully curated designs spanning ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories and more, you’ll find quality, timeless pieces across the brand.
A true day-to-night staple, the Baguette Bag is crafted from supple leather with a soft sheen and a compact, clean-lined silhouette. It features a top-fold magnetic closure and cotton interior.
Best For: Sculptural styles
Polène is a Parisian label celebrated for its sculptural silhouettes and meticulous craftsmanship. Known for soft folds, draping, and organic shapes, each piece is handcrafted in Spain.
The Cyme Mini is a smaller take on the classic tote, designed to be styled in multiple ways—with its sides tucked in for a more compact shape or left out for a basket-like silhouette. It features a removable interior pouch and adjustable straps, offering flexibility for both form and function.
Best For: Unique styles
South Korean brand OSOI is a label redefining modern accessories with bold silhouettes and playful structure. Spanning shoes and accessories, the brand uses their products to showcase a distinctive style.
The Toni Mini is one of the brand’s signature styles, featuring a curved silhouette and adjustable shoulder strap. It’s lightweight, compact and available in a wide range of colours—ideal for making a statement.
Best For: Pops of colour
Also hailing from South Korea, Margesherwood is all about giving classic shapes a modern twist. Think retro-inspired design, but with a fresh, elevated feel.
The Bessette Bag nails the 90’s minimalist vibe with its curved silhouette and crinkled leather finish. If you’re after a pop of colour and a bag that goes with everything—this one’s hard to go past.
Best For: Reimagined 70’s style
Coach is a historic American brand blending heritage craftsmanship with modern style. Since 1941, Coach has been a family-run company, specialising in crafting premium leather goods.
The Tabby 26 is a reinvention of the 1970’s design, with pebbled leather and gold hardware. It features a leather lining and two detachable straps, making it versatile enough for all occasions.
Best For: Playful styles
GANNI is a Danish label loved for its playful aesthetic and strong commitment to responsible fashion. As a certified B-Corp, the brand shares annual progress reports outlining its sustainability efforts and impact.
Crafted from recycled leather, the Bou Bag features a distinctive hexagonal shape and chunky braided handle. It also includes a crossbody strap and an internal pocket with card slots for everyday practicality.
Best For: Statement designs
STAUD is a cult LA brand known for bold, artistic accessories with a nostalgic twist. Known for their creative and fun designs, the accessories are the ultimate way to add interest to any outfit.
This Tommy Beaded Bag featuring ripe, red tomatoes shows the charm and playfulness of the brand. Intricately crafted to everything from jeans and tees to a little black dress.
Best For: Trending styles
Singapore-based Charles & Keith deliver trend-driven, accessible accessories designed to capture the joy and energy of fashion.
The Hazel Bag, crafted in soft pastel pink and made with at least 20 per cent recycled materials, features an east-west silhouette with multiple compartments—making it a stylish and practical pick for any occasion.
Best For: Statement clutches
Known for designs that are undoubtedly works of art, Cult Gaia ranges ready-to-wear, shoes and other accessories.
While it does sit on the higher end of mid-tier at just over $1,000, the Caldera Clutch is a must-have for clutch-lovers. Crafted from resin with a rippling, pearlescent finish and curved silhouette, it’s the ultimate evening bag for the fashion-forward.
Best For: Cool-girl slouch
Run by an all female team in Melbourne, Reh Studios is a jewellery and bag brand that offer products for the everyday woman.
The Valentina bag is made from premium leather that is designed to soften over time. With double inner compartments and removable straps, this everyday essential is perfect for all occasions.
