When it comes to finance and fashion, most of us would agree that our knowledge begins at being able to tell you what the initials IPO stand for, the designers bags worn by Marisa Abela when in costume as Yasmin Kara-Hanani on Industry and being able to quote Carrie Bradshaw when she wrote that “a Prada dress should always be worn with an investment banker”.
However, in the accelerating cost-of-living crisis, there’s certainly been a discernible increase in the valuation of little luxuries, whether it be the Chanel Le Vernis nail polish we buy to save on monthly manicures or the Layla’s Bakery pastry we sweetly treat ourselves to every Saturday morning after a hard week. As a result, there’s been a renewed interest in the best entry-level designer accessories—small leather goods, pouches, bag charms, sunglasses and so forth—as a way to satiate our appetites for luxury items at a more affordable price point.
“These are pieces that allow first-time luxury consumers and customers that have been purchasing for some time who are investing heavily into designer collections to both be a part of the brand, and be a part of the world that that brand creates at a much more attractive price point,” explains Gab Waller, the Los Angeles-based personal shopper and luxury product sourcer.
Having made her reputation in obtaining out-of-stock, incredibly hard-to-find and exceptionally archival designer pieces for the likes of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hailey Bieber and Sofia Richie Grainge, Waller has established herself as a pre-eminent resource for identifying, seeking out and supplying the latest must-have piece. (Chanel purses, Phoebe Philo jackets and Hermès bags, to name a few.)
When asked about the rise in popularity of entry-level designer accessories, Waller tells me that it comes down to two things. “It allows you to be a part of the world of the brand, and it also allows you to create a relationship with that brand,” she adds. “It is very well-known that relationships with your sales assistants will certainly help you get access to the more highly requested and in-demand pieces down the line, so investing in entry-level designer products allows you to tap into the brand whilst also creating a relationship.”
For London-based brand founder and CEO of luxury resale platform Sellier, Hanushka Toni, she tells me that entry-level designer accessories are “a smart and low-pressure way onto the luxury ladder.” Speaking over email, she acknowledges that “whether it’s your first designer treat or a thoughtful add-on to your collection, these pieces deliver craftsmanship, instantly recognisable design, and a touch of brand heritage—all without the scary price tag.”
Of course, it would be remiss for me to boast in such broad strokes about the affordability of products that will still set you back hundreds of pounds. It’s not to say that these pieces are inexpensive by any means of the word, but more accessible than the higher end of the spectrum, which can sometimes reach into the thousands. Better still, these are pieces that will still hold their investment for years to come, knowing that you can invest a small amount of money in and still reap the benefits should you ever choose to part ways with the item later down the line.
So, where to start? “Belts, small leather goods, and compact bags from brands known for their materials and construction tend to age beautifully and hold their appeal,” explains Toni. “Scarves and costume jewellery can be fun entry points, but they’re far more trend-led; well-made leather pieces in timeless shapes simply have more staying power.”
Ready to put your money where your mouth is? From coin purses woven in buttery soft intrecciato leather from Bottega Veneta to saccharine bag charms from Miu Miu that will instantly give any tote Mrs Prada’s stamp of approval, uncover the best entry-level designer accessories, ahead.
The Best Entry-Level Designer Accessories, Categorised by Price
Under £250
Yves Klein Blue is a colour not only synonymous with the late French artist, but also some of the most iconic Celine creative directors in modern history. (Including Michael Kors, Phoebe Philo and Michael Ryder.) Evoke the essence of these Parisian tastemakers with this cobalt coin purse from Aspinal of London.
Now, a Chanel bag might only be a forever wish-list piece for many of us. But, what bag is not made chicer—and more functional—than through the addition of a Chanel foldable mirror. Perfect for lipstick swatches and hair check-ups on the go.
Mulberry is a brand that's enmeshed with London itself, from its iconic Bayswater bag to slouchy Hackney tote. Of course, anyone who has spent time under the city's grey skies knows it's impossible to leave the house for several months of the year without being armed with chic and practical gloves such as this.
Forget the baseball caps you bought at airport terminals. Elevate your accessories game with refined hats that embody the energy of the season, like this papery-thin sun hat from Toteme.
Alessandro Michele is the brainchild behind some of the most iconic entry-level designer accessories, from Gucci's Marmont belt to this gingham pink-and-white cardholder from Valentino which features his signature cat motif.
A jacquard so recognisable and sellable that it's spawned a thousand replicas, though none hold a fire to the original. Now, bring this heritage and prestige to any accessory of your choosing with this silk chiffon Gucci ribbon.
Sexy, sleek, Saint Laurent. It doesn't get more polished, clean-cut and streamlined than this, just as Anthony Vaccarello would want it.
A silk scarf can be worn in so many ways, whether it be like Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's or Gracie Abrams at Glastonbury. Either way, you won't regret this understated Toteme style.
Under £500
A mighty metallic, because every purse needs a splash of personality, even if it does just liven up the interior of your bag.
The gilded Cassandre sigil is always a marker of luxury and taste, irrespective of the size it's rendered in or the piece it's planted onto.
A work of buccaneer beauty, Alexander McQueen's skull scarf has become a piece of fashion history. But thanks to re-up versions from current creative director Seán McGirr, you'll only need to spend a few hundred pounds to own a small chapter of British iconic style.
Boasting any logos, this card case is made covetable by its woven leather finish, which is a design trademark only noticeable to the trained eye.
This might be labelled as a pencil case, but this chic carrier can do so much more, whether it be housing the lip products that pile up at the bottom of your bag, store unsexy beauty essentials or simply, as the name suggests, loose stationary. e
Because whoever said looking good had to stop at border control clearly doesn't know what they're talking about. Ready, jet, go.
Padded and practical, this puffer cardholder does the hard work in making you look far more elegant thanks to the gold logo stamped in the bottom right corner.
A compact credit card holder cut from luxurious calfskin leather and featuring this season's animal print motif. What's not to love?
From long-haul flights to days out-and-about running errands, I can't think of a single situation that wouldn't benefit from lugging this Mulberry cosmetic pouch around.
Subtle accessories make the biggest difference, like this croc-effect Cassandre brooch. Whether pinned to your lapel or fastened to your button fixture, you'll always look incredibly chic with it on.
Blink, and you'll miss it! Consider this a belt that holds all the differences in making a good outfit.
Sometimes, these entry-level designer accessories reach cult status of their own accord. Such is the case with these Loewe x Paula's Ibiza botanical sunglasses. A marker of Jonatan Anderson's time at the brand, these shades are bohemian, hedonistic and demanding of a holiday.
Despite not technically being an accessory, there's no denying that this Bottega Veneta fragrance is an objet d'art. And who could argue against a spritzing of perfume being the faintest of all accessories around?
Introduced by Miuccia Prada in the brand's spring/summer 2000 womenswear collection, the lipstick motif has become somewhat of a signature for the brand.
Shakespeare might've asked if a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, but this Miu Miu floral bag charm proves that any accessory is made all the more chicer by having it fastened to.
From Stella McCartney's banana prints to Chemena Kamali's flamingos, Chloé has always had a fixation with the tropical. Now, inject that sentiment wherever you go with this crochet pineapple trinket.
A pair of glasses so iconic they had everyone wishing they had myopia just to wear them.
Some may call it dated because of how pervasive this belt was upon it's release, but if you're going to invest in the Marmont, make it the original.
Like Blair Waldorf before you, a chunky headband really can become part of your everyday wardrobe, as long as you're willing to splurge on the right piece.
If a card holder is too limiting for you, consider this zip-up case, which is rendered in a lush shade inspired by travertine marble, the perfect alternative.
Based in London, but inspired by Stockholm, this generously sized DeMellier bag is the perfect companion for any chic city dweller.
A pouch so nice you'll wear it as a clutch.
Made from tanned leather and rendered with this alligator effect, this belt is the perfect accompaniment for any pair of tailored trousers or structured jeans.
Jelly sandal supremacy continues for another year, especially with a style as chic as these Chloé sandals.
Like a sartorial bon bon, consider this fashion's answer to the sweet treat trend.
An evening bag you'll have forever, or a day-to-day purse for toting around the town. The decision is yours to make.
The definition of a modern must-have.
The Bottega Veneta drop earrings will never date, and neither will these chunky sunglasses thanks to the addition of the bulbous motif at the end of the arms.
Scarves are one of the best investments you can make if wanting to invest in a designer brand, but aren't ready to commit to a full piece of ready-to-wear.
Scandinavian fashion labels have long been revered for their minimalistic sentiment, but Toteme has arguably soared above its cohort for its commitment to sumptuous materials and refined minimalism.
Wear as a halterneck, tie around your waist, wrap around your head...the options are truly limitless. s
What to Look Out for When Buying Entry-Level Designer Accessories?
“Look to the brands that have built their reputation on [artistry] first and trends second,” explains Toni. These entry-level accessories are often styles that epitomise the DNA of the designer brand, weaving both its personality and market positioning into one singular item that holds its weight, often becoming signatures of the label by direct consequence. For this reason, you should always consider pieces that embody the values and visions of the luxury brand you’re investing in, whether it be Celine’s unfussy French girl attitude, Prada’s cerebral and intellectual approach to Italian design or Loewe’s balmy approach to craft that has been honed over 180 years.
“Miu Miu is a great example for this,” Waller notes. ‘The brand has skyrocketed in demand over the past couple of years, and they really have created a universe in which my clients, in particular, want to be a part of.” By offering signature pieces like its cowboy hat, satin slippers and librarian glasses, at a more attainable level, it allows the everyday, albeit discerning, shopper to partake in this world without spending thousands of dollars.
“It also allows you to wear those highly-coveted pieces on repeat and get your value for your money, as opposed to continuing to save and splurge on a bigger ticket item,” Waller says.
This last point is something that Toni echos, too. “Entry-level accessories let you grow your wardrobe thoughtfully, without the splurge anxiety,” she remarks. “Over time, those smaller investments often get far more wear (and pleasure) than a single high-ticket item that feels too precious to take out of the house. It’s so satisfying to see your little luxury edit come together, filled with pieces that aren’t just pricey but genuinely reflect your style and personality.”
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