10 Bag Brands Under $500
Chic, minimal, and high quality handbag brands that don't break the bank
Designer bag brands often get the most recognition, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a stylish and reliable bag. There are countless smaller brands that offer an incredible assortment of high quality bags at more accessible price points. Today’s newsletter is an appreciation post for ten brands I think deserve more attention — hardly an exhaustive list, as it was tough to narrow it down to only ten. Scroll down to read more!
DeMellier: Designed in London and made in Spain, DeMellier is always top of my list when someone asks for a bag that is both timeless and modern. The brand offers mostly leather bags, but there are also natural woven basket bags and canvas options as well. The striped canvas is so classic and instantly elevates a minimal outfit!
Elleme: A Parisian brand known for its signature top handle bag that comes in multiple sizes, colors, and finishes — like leather, suede, raffia, and shearling. They recently released a woven leather bag with a gold plated top handle. It is right above the $500 budget, but too good not to mention!
Little Liffner: If you follow me on other social platforms, you have heard me talk about this brand on numerous occasions — Stockholm based and produced in Italy, they’re well known for their minimalist designs, especially their tulip shaped totes. Over the last year, they introduced new shapes and hardware details that remain minimalist, but also feel interesting and fresh. The two bags I own, pictured above, are easily two of the most loved bags in my wardrobe.
Paris/64: This Spanish based brand is named after the founders’ (a husband and wife duo!) mutual love for Paris. Each of their bags are lined with a watercolor like illustration. There are multiple styles to choose from, but my favorite is the Prismatic design. The shape, inspired by a binoculars bag, is so unique and surprisingly holds a lot!
Aesther Ekme: If you’re looking for sleek and minimal, this Copenhagen based brand is for you. The bags are simple and practical, incorporating architectural lines and sculptural details. The Sac tote is above the $500 budget, but worth noting it gives The Row-like vibe if you’re looking for a more price friendly alternative to the Park Tote.
Gult Gaia: For bags that are like a work of art, look no further than Cult Gaia. The brand incorporates interesting shapes, hardware, and finishes to design heirloom worthy, head turning bags. This is always my first stop when looking for an evening or event bag.
STAUD: This California brand needs to be on your radar — I shared their spring ‘24 collection recently, but their bags didn’t get the recognition they deserve! Their collection offers a great mix of classic and novelty styles, in various sizes and materials, most with a price tag under $350!
Sézane: This Parisian brand is known for its effortless french girl fashion with a feminine and vintage vibe, but don’t forget to check out their bags! The Milo style is reminiscent of the Celine Box bag and the newer styles (The Claude and The Mara) are just as minimal and sleek. I also love their Justine basket bag — lined with a cotton pouch and with dual leather handles, it is a spring/summer essential!
Caterina Bertini: Since discovering Caterina Bertini on Shopbop 3 years ago, it has remained one of my favorite brands — handmade in Italy, the crochet and raffia styles are so chic. The front flap design and chain straps give a strong nod to the timeless Chanel flap bag, and with most bags less than $250, it really can’t be beat.
Pamela Munson: Another spring and summer favorite, Pamela Munson is a straw accessories brand designed in New York. Far beyond a basic beach bag, the feminine and classic bags include elevating details like hand embroidery, stone closures, and leather trim finishes.
Until next time,
Kelly