You can easily find the definition of a word like luxury by cracking open a dictionary. However, explaining its meaning within the context of our relationship with fashion is entirely different. Sure, there are the items one would define as luxurious (e.g., a designer handbag), but that's within the lens of how the industry defines it. In truth, definitions of what affluence looks like don't always consider the nuances of each individual's economic means or the priorities of each shopper.
After all, some may consider being able to afford new clothing, much less a trendy handbag, an extravagance. At the same time, others may have to save up for or search for discounts to afford a designer handbag. Whatever the case, it's safe to say that how we define what's "expensive" depends on our own experiences. But even within that tailored lens, there are certain choices any consumer can make to get the most bang for their buck. Beyond investing in pieces that appreciate, one can make an even more straightforward stylistic choice by opting for a brown handbag.
Hear me out: Brown bags always look expensive, no matter their actual price. As with black handbags, this "boring" bag color is timeless and versatile. While it may not be as exciting as a brightly-hued bag, there's something to be said about how this color can come in every shade and silhouette and still look stylish. To prove just how universally lavish this color can be, I scoured the internet to find the 45 best brown handbags. In my humble opinion, these are the cremé de la cremé due to their wearability, price, quality, brand name, and trendiness. Consider this an invitation to redefine your relationship with this color.
Under $350
Coach's Brooklyn bag is arguably one of the hottest bags of the moment.
Freja's handbags are a great value as they're often made from ultra-durable materials, come in chic silhouettes, and are budget-friendly.
Woven bags always look expensive, but the fact that this one comes in dark brown leather makes it look all the more decadent.
Not to sound like a broken record, but the benefit of buying a brown handbag is that it can make even the most affordable brands look fancy. Need proof? See the East West bag above.
Everything about this J.Crew bag feels rich— from the polished suede fabric to the distinct gold hardware and the shiny chocolate brown leather.
Nothing says, "I'm heading to a far-off beach destination," quite like a brown raffia tote. No matter how much you spend on this bag, it will always look like you just returned from a lavish vacation (even if you didn't).
I don't know about you, but the crinkled detailing on this chocolate brown shoulder bag has me drooling. It's the sort of subtle detail that feels scrumptious.
Receipts are sometimes the best indication of a bag's superiority, and let's just say we've got them for this Zara bag. All of our editors can't stop talking about this style.
The great thing about this Poppy Lissman bag is that it can be styled as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag based on your preferences.
I own this bag in a different colorway, and what I love most about it is how incredibly soft the vegan suede is. Plus, the interior is so spacious, perfect for all your work or travel essentials.
Even an affordable bag from Amazon can look opulent when done in a chocolate brown hue.
Made from supple leather, this shoulder bag from Staud is the ideal long-term investment for minimalists.
You can't tell me this faux suede handbag in cognac doesn't look like a designer.
Freja New York has become a beloved brand among the fashion set for its '90s-inspired minimal handbag silhouettes.
Another bag that's been flying off the digital shelves with our readers? This Miu Miu-like leather handbag from Anthropologie. Not only is the price right, but it's stylish to boot.
Under $650
Everything about this bag is elegant, including the egg-inspired shape, the two-tone hardware, and the soft Italian leather.
I own this clutch in black and dream of buying the tan version daily. What makes this bag one of the best you can buy is that it is made from sustainable faux leather, has a super-spacious interior, and can be styled as a clutch or shoulder bag with a strap.
During the summer, you can't scroll on Instagram and not see this bag on the style set's arms.
If you want a minimalist bag that not everyone has, this one is for you.
From Suki Waterhouse to Emma Roberts, every chic celeb is fighting over this new Tory Burch handbag.
Cult Gaia's bags are works of art.
Who said practical carry-all totes couldn't be chic? This Reformation bag proves otherwise thanks to low-key luxe design details like its dark brown-hued suede and flap closure.
Buckle hardware is big for spring, making this camel-hued bag the ideal trendy purchase.
It doesn't get more timeless than a crossbody satchel, especially in a dark tan.
You can't claim latte-colored bags are "boring" when they're as architectural as the Mlouye bag above.
Trapeze-shaped bags will always exude a certain level of elegance for me. But what makes this DeMellier bag particularly stylish (besides its silhouette) is its classic tan hue, subtle contrast stitching, and gold hardware.
Just when I thought Coach's new handbag collection couldn't be any more chic, I discovered the Empire Carryall Bag.
Mansur Gavriel has become known for its selection of classic handbag silhouettes in timeless neutrals. But you might not know that the brand's newest collection features plant-based leather made from recycled apple skins.
While I'm not normally a logo person, Celine has me reconsidering my preferences. Its popular pouch bag proves that iconography can be chic (if it comes in brown, of course).
Maybe it's the shape of this tote, the deep chocolate color, or the buffed Napa calfskin leather, but this bag feels like the embodiment of quiet luxury.
The suede is ultra-rich, the hardware is elegant, and the silhouette is so practical that it's arguably one of the best shoulder bags I've encountered in a while.
Mark my words: This bag will be everywhere this summer. Its crescent shape, subtle gold hardware, and chestnut leather make it an accessible style for all.
As someone who owns quite a few BY FAR bags, I can tell you they're worth every penny. While the brand has become known for its more colorful styles, its minimalist offerings (like this chocolate brown Issa bag) shouldn't be ignored.
Worth Investing In
Bag fanatics are always looking for pieces that strike that perfect balance between trendy and timeless, and this Saint Laurent does just that. Its slouchy silhouette is very in-line with recent trends, while its soft leather, signature hardware, and classic colorway make it a bag that won't go out of style.
This Loewe bag is the epitome of a classic. The bag comes in various hues (including the chocolate brown seen here) and features knotted drawstring ties, a subtle logo, and a detachable shoulder strap.
Hailey Bieber and more celebrities are flocking toward Balenciaga's timeless new Rodeo Bag. Get yours before it sells out.
Another trendy silhouette that looks good in classic brown? The Bowler bag, such as The Row's India. This bag features The Row's signature quiet luxury appeal with its logo-less design, high-quality leather, and structured shape.
Three things can make a bag even better. First, it comes in a chocolate brown hue. Second, it has unique design details (say, a croc-embossed fabric like the bag above). And finally, it's from Jacquemus.
Khaite sold me with only three words: caramel suede tote. But in case you're not sold, know the interior of this bag is big enough to carry your essentials while the strap is long enough to fit over your shoulders.
While Bottega Veneta's bags are the epitome of luxury, its new Ciao Ciao bag takes it to a whole new level. From the rich chocolate color to the signature knot detail, this bag is the embodiment of splendor.
I can see my younger sister, mom, and even grandma carrying this bag. It's ageless.
Leave it to Jil Sander to make the most exquisite brown handbag I've ever seen. The geometric shape? The bamboo-inspired top-handle? The chocolate leather? Assignment understood.
One surefire way to make a brown handbag feel even more expensive? Opt for a style that centers craftsmanship, like this Miu Miu bag. The textured matelassé leather is crafted through hours of work and gives the classic hobo shape and tan hue a special touch.
You can't deny how chic brown handbags are, especially when they look as good as this Toteme clutch.
If you've made it this far, you're hopefully convinced that opting for a brown bag over other styles is arguably the simplest way to elevate your wardrobe. But should you still have doubts, let this classic Demellier bag be your final proof of the power of this color.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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