This Rich-Looking Colour Will Fool Anyone Into Thinking Your High-Street Bag Is Designer

As someone with a designer taste on a high-street budget, finding an expensive-looking handbag can be tricky. The craftsmanship and quality of a luxury handbag are undeniable, however, there are a few tips you can follow to find an affordable bag that looks just as pricey and will last in your wardrobe as long as any designer buys. From opting for natural materials to ensure quality, to avoiding lightweight hardware and contrast stitching so your bag doesn't look cheap, there are many ways to find a high-street handbag that looks more expensive than its price tag. The easiest way, in my opinion, is to opt for a rich-looking colour. We all know that black and brown are classic, but for 2025 I'm turning my attention to a different shade that's just as timeless and will make anyone think your high-street bag is much more expensive than it really is: burgundy.
Marina wears COS' Cavatelli clutch in burgundy.
Arguably the most popular colour of last year, burgundy is elevated enough to make an outfit stand out but is also an extremely wearable shade that will pair well with bold shades and neutrals alike. As someone with a very classic and anti-trend sense of style, burgundy is one of those colours that I find just as timeless as black, brown or white and also never takes me out of my minimalist comfort zone. And, not to mention it looks extremely expensive. There's just something about the rich reddish-purple tone that exudes luxury and sophistication.
I've personally found a plethora of chic burgundy items from affordable brands, from cosy knits to polished loafers, and the high street's handbag selection is no different. Whether you pair it with classic shades like black or cream or plan to go head-to-toe monochrome with the other burgundy items you invested in when the colour was trending last year, a handbag in this luxurious shade will make your outfits look grown-up and expensive.
Luckily for all of us, the high street is currently filled with a myriad of burgundy handbag options that are affordable but no less chic than their luxury counterparts. Everyone from COS and Arket to Zara and Mango has a luxe-looking selection that's sure to fool anyone into thinking that you're wearing a designer brand.
Scroll on to shop the most expensive-looking burgundy bags that won't break the bank for 2025.
Shop the Most Expensive-Looking Burgundy Bags:

As WWW UK’s editorial assistant, Brittany focuses on creating compelling fashion and beauty content for site. She supports the fashion team on shoots and with styling, and works closely with the Managing Editor on recurring columns and franchises. With a particular passion for fragrance—and a personal collection to match—she has a passion for all things fashion, beauty and lifestyle related. Prior to Who What Wear, Brittany worked as the Shopping Assistant at Reach Plc and across a number publications, including OK!, Notebook, S Mag and The Mirror. In this role, she was responsible for creating on-site beauty and fashion content, compiling shopping grids and campaigns for the print magazine as well as filmed and edited weekly video content for the brand’s social media account.
-
Just the 29 Best Bags of Summer 2025
From Tory Burch to Prada.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know About
Elite finds.
-
Everyone With Good Taste Is Already Wearing These 7 Chic Summer Pieces
These instantly elevate any look.
-
Lily James Wore the Handbag Brand That's Secretly Giving The Row a Run for Its Money
In-the-know fashion people are obsessed.
-
Move Over, Zara and Mango—This Affordable Yet Expensive-Looking Bag Collection at Bloomingdale's Has My Attention
Get ready for endless compliments.
-
These New Under-$100 Nordstrom Summer Items Are What I Call Fashion, Period
Expensive-looking staples.
-
Fashion People Are Wearing This $50 Accessory (Kendall Jenner Included), and I Bought It—My Outfits Are Now Cooler
This item is everywhere.
-
Since the Margaux Is Nowhere to Be Found, This Is the The Row Bag We're Buying Instead
It's also a forever piece.