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As the Director of Accessories at Harper’s Bazaar, I can say without hesitation that I love bags. Bags are both beautiful and practical. They can perfectly reflect your personal style, enhance your overall look, and in some cases, even be the finishing touch.
But finding the perfect bag (and the right price) can be tricky. Don’t worry, that’s where I come in. There are a lot of different bags on the market, and my goal was to find a standout bag under $500 that was unique in design, material, or color.
To that end, I’ve put together a selection of classic, yet affordable, bags you won’t want to part with. Who says you have to empty your wallet to enjoy luxury?
This bag is made for the modern fashionista. I love its clean East-meets-West design, with chic, simple metal hardware and a cool, wintery white color scheme that adds to its charm. It can easily elevate a minimalist look, like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s. It’s practical and compact enough to hold all your everyday essentials, and has long handles so you can wear it over thick winter layers.
Reminiscent of early 2000s makeup bags, this short-strap bag is made for after-work fun. Crafted from beautiful rosewood leather, it’ll look equally at home with jeans as it does with a Carrie Bradshaw-style little black dress.
Reminiscent of Jackie Kennedy’s snapshots on the streets of New York, this bag embodies urban retro style. Available in modern navy and black suede, it’s perfect for any look, from the office to the street.
This versatile shoulder bag features a retractable strap so you can wear it the way you like. The inside of the bag has multiple pockets for various storage needs. The elegant crocodile print makes it even more fashionable and will be your travel companion. Just wear it with a suit and you are ready to go!
You can never go wrong with a top handle briefcase. This bag comes in a classic and versatile British beige color that will last a long time. It features a classic, timeless silhouette and is loaded with commuter-friendly features, like an easy-access front pocket with a snap closure.
I love this Tory Burch bag in a futuristic icy mint blue. It exudes mid-century modern charm and adds a fresh twist to traditional neutrals like gray and camel. It’s very similar to Catherine Deneuve’s signature style in Belle de Jour.
Veronica Beard’s drawstring backpack is made from cream canvas and has a slightly garden-y yet elegant look. Paired with jeans, it’s a great choice for a weekend trip to Nantucket or Cape Town; the luxe leather trim gives the backpack a sophisticated texture, allowing you to say goodbye to everyday city life and head off on a weekend getaway.
This beautiful square crossbody bag in a red hue will add a touch of sophistication to any look. The sculptural gold-tone hardware pays homage to iconic 70s jewelry brands including Elsa Peretti and Burle Marx. This crossbody bag is both stylish and smart, and is sure to become a treasure in your bag.
Like your favorite cozy sweater, this soft hobo bag is perfect for those times when you’re short on time and just want to throw everything in your bag and head out the door. With its easy-to-use design and classic brown hue, it’s no wonder it’s a must-have for your weekly bag.
Marc Jacobs puts a modern spin on the traditional feminine look with clean lines and minimal embellishments. If you’re prone to losing small items in your bag, don’t worry; the bag’s shiny neon yellow lining ensures nothing gets lost.
This is my favorite bag for the office. It easily fits my laptop, computer, and everything else I need, and it still looks great. Oh, and the best part? It folds flat, fits easily in your suitcase, and doubles as extra storage for vacation. (Perfect for those last-minute shopping trips!)
This fun zip-up bag has it all. Featuring sleek black polka dots and matte leather, it’s perfect for storing your phone, wallet, and keys on a night out. Plus, the slim fit and top zip closure make it easy to throw in your bag the next day.
It’s amazing that such a young brand has created such iconic designs and has such a famous following. The brand’s bracelets have been worn by both Taylor Swift and Charli XCX. The signature details of the bag are stunning, from the leather-wrapped strap to the ergonomic shape that fits easily under the hand. The exquisite gold keychain is the perfect finishing touch to this charming and meticulously crafted bag.
This slim suitcase is one of Brandon Blackwood’s signature pieces, and I love when he plays with prints – or, in this case, gorgeous pops of green. The beauty of its affordable price is that you don’t have to worry about the cost per wear. You can try out bright colours and different shapes to add a bit of fun. I love this style, and I own one. It comes with a cross-body strap for when you’re hands-free.
I love using a straw tote bag for the upcoming summer months, and not just for the beach. This bag is the perfect size for my laptop and all my other work and city essentials. The contrasting black leather trim adds a touch of luxury, making it perfect for casual wear or office wear.