The Brands Making The Most Expensive-Looking Bags
by Harriet Davey.
While the Great British high street has had some dramatic changes over recent years (I’m still not over Topshop closing its doors in 2021), there’s still so many brilliant brands that are not to be ignored. Of course, luxury brands will forever be the go-to when it comes to well-made, high-quality handbags but the high street has expanded its offerings and created iterations that can be strong contenders for your next buy now, love forever style. Because you don’t have to splurge on a four-figure handbag for it to be amazing. In fact, some of my favourite bags I wear regularly come from high street stores, lesser-known brands or mid-price labels that are always a fashion editor-favourite.
But back to high street, as I want to highlight all the brands that you can always rely on for everything from your daytime wear-everyday bags to the fancy styles to take on a night out. And the best part is, some of these bags are under £30 – yes, really! So, buckle up, because I’m about to show you all of my top high street bag brands, the styles I know will be a hit for spring/summer 2024, and the styling tips on how to make them work with all your new season outfits. Because let’s face it, a new bag can completely transform your look. Keep going to see the styles that’ll make everyone ask “where did you get your bag from?” as soon as you wear them. You’re welcome!
COS
One word: Wow! The contrasting colours, the curved edges and the sleek leather handle detail against the straw is what sets this bag above the rest. If you prefer a smaller style, it also comes in a mini version – so take your pick. I would add this to a white linen dress with layered gold bangles and rings, chunky black sandals and a pair of chic sunglasses to complete the look.
You may have already seen this crossbody on Instagram, and that’s because its much-loved by fashion editors and influencers alike. While it has launched in a plethora of different colours over the last two years, you can never go wrong with this buttery soft cream that’ll go with literally any outfit you pair it with. For summer, try wearing it with a tonal neutral outfit to look instantly expensive.
ARKET
How fun is this fringed beauty? Whether you wear it with a bikini on holiday or with linen trousers and a tank top for a city shopping day, you’ll get so much wear out of it each and every summer. It also has an inner zip pocket to keep valuables safe and is big enough to even carry a spare pair of shoes, too.
Burgundy is having a moment when it comes to accessories this year, so naturally this sleek 100% leather bag is a wise investment. Whether you style it as a shoulder bag, a grab style or as a high crossbody, it’ll work with outfits around the clock. I personally love burgundy worn with soft pastel pink or butter yellow shades.
Arket Mid-Sized Curved Shoulder Bag
MANGO
Nope, I couldn’t quite believe this chic bag is under-£30, either. This style is proof you don’t even have to invest in real leather for a bag to look premium, instead, look for details such as contrasting stitching, golden hardware and a timeless silhouette. We all know black is a fail-safe colour, so I would wear this one as part of my everyday uniform.
I’ve got a thing for green this season, so of course this shoulder bag is at the top of my wish list. It’s all about the minimalist, clean, fuss-free design that makes it look way more expensive than it is. When it comes to how to wear it, it would work with any neutral shade of cream or white, but I would also add it to a brown dress or even clash it with a yellow or orange co-ord.
Jigsaw
Rhinestones aren’t just reserved for party season, when it comes to bags, they can work all year round. This sparkly style from Jigsaw is bound to be your plus one to any upcoming wedding, night out or after-dark summer soirée. And rest assured, it will be the centre of attention.
Suede is the texture to wear for spring/summer 2024, and it’s coming through in the form of shirts, jackets and of course, bags. This trusty tote bag will also tick off the boho trend that’s come through from the Chloé show, so why not try it with a denim jacket and a floaty tiered white skirt?
Anthropologie
I recently went to the Anthropologie press day to get a sneak peek of what’s coming up for new season, and this bag instantly caught my attention. Designer inspired, the woven knotted design looked so expensive IRL.. Butter yellow is also a key colour this year, so it’s ticking off multiple trends in one fell swoop. I would keep it chic and wear with a yellow dress to a wedding or add to my favourite jeans with a nice top for a night out.
Melie Bianco Larissa Shoulder bag
How do you add a hint of fun to your summer outfit? Just throw on this zebra print bag. While leopard is back with a bang this season, I love how this monochrome print can be mixed with neutrals to create interest. If you want to go wild, why not try clashing it with a floral print?
Anthropologie Animal Print Shoulder Bag
& Other Stories
I think we can all agree, this braided bag-of-dreams could easily be mistaken as designer, right? The attention-to-detail makes it one to take note of – and it’s under-£100! I would add it to any event look, especially with other ice cream pastel shades of lilac, pink, yellow and cream.
&Other Stories Braided Leather Bucket Bag
A holiday hero, no summer bag round-up is complete without a brilliant basket. I love the contrast detailing on this one, and you can either carry it by the handle or add the shoulder strap attachment it comes with. No matter your summer outfit, this will work with it thanks to the neutral colourway. Well done, & Other Stories.
&Other Stories Large Straw Tote