The power of a well-curated look often lies in the accessories. I've had my head turned on countless occasions by an outfit where the handbag was what drew my attention, not because it was bold or statement in design, but because of how it blended seamlessly with the rest of the look, tying everything together. The key to pulling this off? Choosing the right colour.
The right shade can instantly make a handbag look more expensive, and in turn, elevate the entire outfit. Whether it's a designer piece or a well-chosen high-street find, it's the kind of detail that separates a good outfit from an exceptional one.
A handful of shades have become synonymous with luxury—colours that feel elevated, expensive, and endlessly versatile. Neutrals always sit at the top of that list, but the secret is choosing tones with real depth and adaptability. When a colour works beautifully across different textures, it brings polish to any bag, regardless of the price tag. This season, espresso brown, burgundy, khaki green, tan and mole are the shades to trust. Skip the fleeting trends and focus instead on timeless silhouettes that let the colour shine. Think bucket bags, oversized totes and slim shoulder styles with barely-there detailing.
So if you're on the hunt for a handbag that will single-handedly transform your look, scroll on to see and shop the most expensive-looking bag colours around right now, whatever your budget.
5 EXPENSIVE-LOOKING BAG COLOURS TO NOTE:
1. Espresso
Style Notes: Espresso brown is the ultimate neutral this season. It feels just as versatile as black, but instantly richer. Pair it with creamy knits, camel coats or crisp cream tailoring for a palette that always reads expensive.
Shop the Look:
The perfect back-to-work bag.
The subtle croc texture will work well with leather outerwear.
Pony hair accessories are a huge A/W25 trend.
The horsebit-style buckle detail nods to this season's preppy trend.
2. Khaki
Style Notes: Khaki bags strike the perfect balance between utility and polish. They look especially elevated with navy, grey, or tonal neutrals, making them a versatile choice for both weekday tailoring and off-duty denim.
Shop the Look:
Comes with cross-body and top-handle options.
The decorative tie detail sets this slouchy tote apart from the rest.
Ruching elevates this crossbody with a luxe athleisure feel.
The woven detailing will contrast well with knitwear.
3. Tan
Style Notes: A tan bag is a timeless classic that has an easy, year-round appeal and brings warmth and softeness to autumn looks. It is the perfect pairing for beige knits, check blazers and dark-washed denim.
Shop the Look:
Pair with other shades of brown for a striking tonal look.
The hidden lining features an illustrated map of London.
This will stand the test of time.
A tote with a twist.
4. Wine
Style Notes: A burgundy bag signals luxury thanks to its deep, jewel-toned finish. It looks especially expensive against shades of grey or with tonal reds for a chic, layered finish.
Shop the Look:
A great addition to workwear.
Sustainably crafted from surplus recycled buffalo leather.
This crossbody can also be carried like a clutch.
The perfect size for coffee runs.
5. Mole
Style Notes: A mole bag offers a softer alternative to black, with its muted brown-grey tone adding quiet luxury to any look. It pairs seamlessly with cream, charcoal, and muted pastels.
Shop the Look:
Strikes the balance between grey and brown, working well with both.
Bucket bags are huge this autumn.
Radley bags have been reinvented with a sleek new look.
Two-tone bags always look expensive.
