Want to buy a designer bag? Read this first

You have dreamed about it for years, scrimped and saved every last penny, and as a result, you can finally buy yourself a designer bag. And while you may have set your sights on a Chanel 2.55 or even a Hermès Kelly, it isn’t until you walk to the check-out line that the sticker shock of such models begins to set in.

So while images of Hermès may haunt your dreams, with the average starting price of an Hermès Kelly being close to $12,000/£9,000  and a quilted Chanel 2.55 between $5,200/£4,250 and $10,800/£9,540, it may be wise to open your bag dreams up to other designers.

Regardless of the designer, when investing in a luxury bag, it’s wise to consider a few things before swiping your credit card.

• Timeless design and the re-wearability factor – If you want to splurge on a designer bag, stay away from trendy pieces and go for a timeless classic. Obviously what is “timeless” to you might not be for another person, so remember to ask yourself: “Is this a bag that I will want to re-wear in five, ten, or twenty years?”. If you’re looking for a truly classic design, bags like the Gucci Jackie, the Fendi Baguette, or even the Loewe Puzzle are all great picks.
• Seasonality – You want to get the most use out of your big investment—and get that Cost Per Wear down—, so it might be a good idea to consider the seasonality of your dream bag before purchasing. Can it be worn year-round or is there something about it (i.e., the material) that makes it limited to a certain season?
• Your wardrobe – Remember to think about your style and the colours you gravitate towards when choosing your designer bag. Getting distracted by pretty hues and shiny materials is easy, but you don’t want to end up a few thousands poorer with a bag that doesn’t go with anything else in your wardrobe.
• Size and style – It might seem obvious, but reflecting on your chosen bag’s size and style is fundamental. Whether you’re shopping for an everyday workhorse tote or a handbag for special occasions, make sure to check that it fits all your essentials. Don’t let yourself get distracted and go for a style that you know you’ll reach for again and again.
• Wearability – While we love novelty styles, if you’re only planning to invest in one luxury bag (for now), its wearability has to be a top priority. A maxi tote and a small clutch will never be interchangeable in their wearability and purpose, but it’s smart to invest in a bag that will look appropriate in most places, from work to the airport.
• Reasons for buying – While you don’t necessarily need a reason to treat yourself to a designer bag, sometimes it’s nice to tie the purchase to a milestone. For example, an important birthday, a promotion, or the birth of a baby are all important moments that deserve to be celebrated with a special purchase.

All these factors are pretty closely intertwined and it’s important to consider all of them before making a decision. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some stunning designer bags for (almost) every budget.

Starting at less than $500, you can bring home a beautiful luxury bag that will remain stylish year after year. Put aside your Hermès dreams (for now) and take a look at these designer bags that are available for a fraction of the Kelly price.

Although the price points for larger big-name bags typically start north of $500, you can still grab one of their smaller models, like micro and mini versions of the most popular bags, wallets, and card holders. Alternatively, why not explore more accessible designer brands? Bags from Elleme, Staud, See by Chloé, and by FAR are oftentimes available between $300 and $500.

This is the price range most commonly associated with designer bags, and you’ll be able to find a wide selection of brands, materials, and sizes. Many pieces from brands like Jacquemus, Jil Sander, Coach, Isabel Marant, and even Saint Laurent and Prada sit comfortably under the $1,000 mark. If you keep your eyes peeled for any sales you might even be able to score a usually more expensive bag.

Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy you a selection of stunning designer bags (which, is kind of the same thing, no?). Starting at $1,000, the luxury world really is your oyster. From the Marni Trunk bag and Chloé Tess to the highly sought-after Hermès Birkin, scroll down for major bag envy.

Original text and content: Kayla Kuefler and Mio Paternoss

Updated text and content: Emma Trimboli