28 Timeless Handbags That Look Really Expensive
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 minimal handbags that still feel fun without being too over-the-top.
Below, browse minimal 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!
This Zara bag has our editors in a tizzy given how modern yet classy it is.
This oversize Mansur Gavriel clutch may be a simple shape, but the beautiful color takes it to the next level without pushing too many fashion buttons.
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.
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.
Although gray bags can seem unapproachable since they're harder to work with in terms of styling an outfit, this shape is so versatile for any occasion.
JW Pei's roster of affordable, luxe-looking bags is such a lifesaver when it comes to purse hunting.
This find is at the very top of my wish list.
If you're shopping for something black with a timeless shape but still want a bit of sparkle and glam, look no further than this adorable Mango bag.
This Saint Laurent find is beloved on TikTok thanks to its old money–looking profile.
This isn't a regular ole tote bag—it's a cool tote bag.
Although you'd think the sardine hardware on this Bottega Veneta purse feels trendy, the woven leather pattern that has become a staple of the brand has been around for ages—meaning it's not going anywhere anytime soon. Why not have fun with the small details while you're at it?
Somewhat trendy and somewhat modern, this minimal clutch will have your fashion friends asking if you dug deep within the Ssense sale to find this rich-looking gem.
This is incredibly chic and looks 10 times more expensive than it actually is. What more could you ask for?
The pretty bow detail may be a slight, subtle touch to this clutch, but it makes a big impact.
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.
If you're looking for something not too boring, this exaggerated hardware detail does the trick.
Before joining Who What Wear, Ana was Glamour magazine's editorial assistant, where she focused on daily news and special packages, including leading the brand's 2022 Met Gala coverage. For more than half a decade, she has covered style, beauty, and digital culture for publications such as Paper magazine, Harper's Bazaar, Vogue Japan, and Allure, among others. Ana has been called a rising star in media by publications such as Nylon and Teen Vogue. (Her mother, meanwhile, calls her "the coolest person" she knows.)
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