If you know me then you know handbags are my main wardrobe vice. Mid-size shoulder bags are unmatched in my closet and I feel like I have a great handle on them (no pun intended) because trust me, I’ve tried a lot. When it comes to a bag–albeit a great investment piece and one I will stand by as one to spend your money on when you find a designer one you really love–but otherwise, I think it’s fun to have affordable options in your closet to supplement.
Since the bag market is so saturated, it can be difficult to sift through which ones to spend on as it may not look as expensive in person as it does online. When choosing a cheaper bag, it’s better to opt for one without hardware, a patent finish, or a stamped texture. Sticking to neutrals, faux suedes and leathers, and classic silhouettes is a surefire way to get a steal on a bag that looks much more pricey than it is.
I’ve taken my expertise (or at least my experimentation) to find the best under-$100 bags on the internet. Shop below to add a guilt-free purchase to your handbag wardrobe.
Zara
Minimal Flap Shoulder Bag
This angular bag makes the best everyday staple.
Mango
Shopper Bag With Buckle
Nothing beats a monochromatic carry all.
Mango
Oval Short Handle Bag
The ease of this oval bag is unmatched.
Charles & Keith
Black Petra Curved Shoulder Bag
A structural shoulder bag you'll reach for every day.
Mango
Buckle Cross-Body Bag
Reminiscent of a classic Chloé crossbody bag, but for a fraction of the price.
JW Pei
Millie Shoulder Bag
A white shoulder bag is such a cool update.
Charles & Keith
Multicoloured Mini Lara Hobo Bag
The contrast piping on this bag makes it extra chic.
JW Pei
Carly Saddle Bag
This curved shape is trending in bags, and this one is a total steal.
H&M
Shoulder Bag
A simple baguette bag with a rich shiny exterior.
Urban Outfitters
Remy Soft Baguette Bag
Vintage-looking hardware makes this baguette bag look very expensive.
ASOS
Tote With Double Pockets in Black
Utilitarian pocket details elevate this affordable tote.
Topshop
Chelsea Saddle Crossbody Bag in Black
The contrast stitching on this crossbody bag adds a luxurious feel.
Zara
Basic Tote Bag
A basic black leather tote never misses.
Topshop
Shay Ombre Shoulder Bag in Black
An ombré illusion creates an lavish exterior on this simple shoulder bag.
Iets Frans...
Monogram Y2k Buckle Shoulder Bag
Logo bags with early aughts' details feel like a pricey vintage find.
Zara
Flap Mini City Bag
This simple flap mini bag is now only $23.
Topshop
Twist Lock Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
This is the type of hardware that feels expensive on an affordable bag.
Topshop
Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
The shape of this faux leather bag makes it look like a runway piece.
Vince Camuto
Amari Leather Clutch
Luxe camel leather would have me guessing a much higher price on this clutch bag.
Topshop
Crossbody Bag
The shape and colorful details on this bag feel super modern.
Mango
Leather Shopper Bag
For only $80, this chic leather shopper is a must-buy work tote.
Charles & Keith
Brown Cesia Metallic Accent Shoulder Bag
Gold hardware that feels super luxe.
Mango
Faux-Leather Bag
An easy white faux leather bag with a relaxed shape.
French Connection
Half Moon Crossbody Bag
Keep it clean and simple with a hardware-free black crossbody.
KKXIU
Small Lightweight Crossbody Purses
A monochromatic hue and elevated details take this $20 bag to the next level.
ASOS
Suede Crossbody Bag With Detachable Strap
Supple suede is best in a tone of tan or brown.
Scarleton
Lightweight with 2 Straps
A mid-size silhouette and red tone make this shoulder bag.
Alfani
Mini Toggle Crossbody
An effortless flap bag in pebbled leather.
Accessorize
Twist Lock Boxy Crossbody Bag
The detailed exterior feels intentional for this green crossbody bag.
ASOS
Bonded Bucket Tote Bag
A little black bucket bag is a great addition to your bag wardrobe, and for only $32.
Copelyn is a freelance fashion and accessory editor who formerly worked for Who What Wear as an associate shopping editor. Before her time at Who What Wear, Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group, working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion departments. Copelyn has a journalism degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, she freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion space and loves to upcycle clothing, home décor, and sneakers.