I've been called a "crazy bag lady" by my closest fashion friends and boyfriend (who, admittedly, bears the brunt of my purse-hunting obsession with the closet space I've slowly taken over), so I know a thing or two about purses, from $20 thrifted finds to high-quality luxury buys that have taken me years to save up for. To call me anything but a handbag aficionado would be an understatement. So when I say that next year's biggest handbag trend will continue to be understated, sleek styles that blend seamlessly into any era of your wardrobe, you better believe me.
While handbag trends come and go, there will always be a dedicated section in my heart for "buy now, wear forever" bags that look incredibly expensive. For the most part, any bag that has a neutral color, simple design, and no logo will do the trick, but more and more designers are pushing the boundaries on minimalist handbags that still feel fun without being too over-the-top.
Below, browse minimalist handbags at every price point that look incredibly luxe. If you buy more than one from this list, don't say I didn't warn you!
Zara
Flap Shoulder Bag
This Zara bag has our editors in a tizzy given how modern yet classy it is.
SAVETTE
Symmetry Pochette Suede Tote
With sleek hardware and a sophisticated, neutral suede profile, this Savette handbag is the perfect entry-level luxury bag for someone who's looking for a purse that'll last for years.
Liffner
Belted Bucket Bag Beige Suede
This Liffner bucket may be a simple shape, but the beautiful suede takes it to the next level without pushing too many fashion buttons.
Stand Oil
Chubby Bag
Stand Oil is the cool girl–approved Korean handbag brand that's become my newest obsession. Luckily for you (and me!), most of its styles come in under $200.
Zara
Suede Tote Bag
The perfect "throw-and-go" bag.
The Row
90's Leather Tote
This viral mini bag from The Row is all over our editors' wish lists.
Alaïa
Le Teckel Medium Nubuck Shoulder Bag
Alaïa has my heart, always.
Freja New York
Mercer Bag Black
Freja's Mercer Bag that was just released is by far the object of envy of every girl in New York right now. Just look at it!
Toteme
T-Lock Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag
Not buying this bag when I was in Sweden is my biggest regret—I just know I'll never get tired of its classy silhouette.
Zara
Bucket Bag
Although bucket bags can seem unapproachable since they're harder to work with in terms of styling a dressier outfit, I'm obsessed with how Zara styled this one with a sharp coat and matching tonal cashmere sweater.
Liffner
Petite Penne Tote Suede Amarone
Liffner's roster of luxe bags is such a lifesaver when it comes to purse hunting.
Staud
Moon Bag in Saddle
This find is at the very top of my wish list.
Staud
Valerie Shoulder Bag in Brown Mahogany Suede
If you're shopping for something brown with a timeless shape but still want a bit of sparkle and glam, look no further than this adorable Staud bag.
Saint Laurent
Manhattan Mini Leather Shoulder Bag
This Saint Laurent find is beloved on TikTok thanks to its old money–looking profile.
Mango
Mini Satin Bowling Bag
The shape of this bag may be simple, but the stunning color packs a punch,
Coach
Swing Zip Bag
Coach's Swing Zip bag has been taking over my TikTok FYP as of late.
JW Pei
Joy Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
Another JW Pei style I'll never say no to.
Charles & Keith
Cesia Croc-Effect Metallic-Accent Shoulder Bag
If you're looking for something not too boring, this exaggerated hardware detail does the trick.
Freja New York
Mini Chrystie Bag Black
This Mini Chrystie bag from Freja is the perfect size for a daily bag.
The Row
Dalia Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag
Anything The Row puts out, I'll buy.
Zara
Shoulder Bag
IYKYK.
Charles & Keith
Gabine Saddle Bag
Charles & Keith is that girl.
Khaite
Simona Shoulder Bag in Black Haircalf
Frankly, this bag is the bag of the season in my book. What more could you ask for?
Mango
Crossbody Bag With Flap
The perfect everyday bag doesn't exis—
H&M
Knot-Detail Crossbody Bag
Sneakily designer looking, if you ask me.
Stand Oil
More Baguette Bag
Absolutely jaw-dropping.
JW Pei
Hana Mini Faux Suede Tote Bag - Brown
This JW Pei bag lives in my closet, and I can confirm it's the perfect no-fuss shoulder bag if you're looking for a purse that'll go with every outfit you can possibly think of.
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.