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— someone 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 between the £200-£700 price point and perfect for a payday treat to yourself or big birthday gift. But what’s really got us bag-loving folk excited over the past couple of seasons is 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 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 game 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…
Crafte 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, plenty of room for carrying your laptop, snacks and other essentials.
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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 for all year round.
You can always count on ASOS Design for expensive-looking, budget friendly options.
If you told us this minimalist leather bag was designer we’d totally believe you.
Looking for a carry-all 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 that’s always carrying a canvas tote bag, it’s probably worth investing in a more long-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? Us neither.
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 is 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.
