Spending hundreds or even thousands of pounds on a beautiful investment handbag obviously has its benefits. The quality is usually outstanding, and the buttery leather only gets better with age. Luxury brands usually offer repairs if there are ever any design malfunctions, and it’s also likely a timeless companion will end up having quite a low cost per wear. But if you’re simply looking for a bag that has that luxury look, one that will still elevate all your outfits without the rather hefty price tag, it is possible to find expensive-looking alternatives, and we’re here to tell you where.
In our expert opinion, the best bags on the high street that also have lasting quality can be found at COS and Arket. & Other Stories also produces great classic leather iterations, while Mango and H&M versions can look the part but may not be quite as reliable on the quality (which is to be expected). M&S can produce a really great, designer-looking handbag every once in a while too, like this season’s brand-new minimalist crossbody, which is bound to sell out once influencers and fashion people inevitably catch on. Charles & Keith and JW Pei are two lesser-known brands that we editors also turn to for premium-looking styles, and you’ll find the current best options from all of these brands below.
Anouk totes the recently back-in-stock Leather Crossbody Bag from Arket and makes it look like it could easily be designer.
In terms of expensive-looking features, we always recommend opting for a classic black, tan or cream shade if you want the most luxurious feel. Gold hardware always elevates, and braided or woven leather feels particularly special at the moment. And finally, real leather options may cost a little more but will always look and feel more expensive and last much longer.
Keep scrolling, and you’ll find 15 of the best expensive-looking handbags available right now, any of which will add a luxury feel to your upcoming autumn wardrobe without costing a fortune.
Shop the Best Expensive-Looking Handbags
M&S COLLECTION
Faux Leather Cross Body Bag
£35
I honestly can’t get over how expensive this bag looks.
ARKET
Leather Crossbody Bag
£179
Arket is becoming very well known for its beautiful bag collection. The brand bring this crossbody-style out year after year and in multiple hues and sizes.
COS
Leather Crossbody Bag
£110
Fashion people (who notoriously love designer bags), including the entire WWW UK team, are obsessed with this style.
H&M
Crossbody Bag
£28
I love a canvas crossbody.
MANGO
Shopper Bag With Buckle
£50
Such a good throw-everything-in-and-go tote.
& OTHER STORIES
Braided Shoulder Bag
£145
Stunning. And in a gorgeous chocolate brown hue.
CHARLES & KEITH
Carey Crescent Hobo Bag
£69
There’s something so chic about a burgundy bag.
MASSIMO DUTTI
Nappa Leather Bag
£169
Okay, I’m totally in love with this Massimo Dutti bag!
M&S COLLECTION
Faux Leather Tote Bag
£40
Practical and stylish. What more could you want?
JW PEI
Harlee Shoulder Bag – Ivory
£90
If you told me this was designer, I’d fully believe you.
& OTHER STORIES
Large Suede Tote
£135
Suede bags are going to be everywhere this season.
CHARLES & KEITH
Petra Curved Shoulder Bag
£69
A fab shape if you’re after something a little different.
H&M
Bucket Bag
£38
Easy enough to use at the weekends but smart enough for the office.
COS
Braided Barrel Shoulder Bag
£110
Another woven style that has our full attention.
ARKET
Mid Size Curved Shoulder Bag
£159
Another Arket style that fashion people are loving right now…
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