If you’re a fashion savvy person like me, you know too well that having a versatile designer bag is a piece of investment you’ll never regret owning. Not only do these iconic handbag designs stay in style – even as the trends come and go – but they do complement with every outfit – making you feel special.
And much like your best designer dress or heels, the best designer handbags carry a hefty price tag – with most starting somewhere slightly south of $1000 range and others going for thousands of dollars.
But what makes these luxury handbags? Well, the best designer handbags share some specific qualities and most particularly the expert craftsmanship, quality material, endurance, and cachet. All these combined contribute to the high prices associated with designer handbags and accessories.
That said, however, these exorbitant price tags have made it nearly impossible for most fashion enthusiasts to dream of owning a designer handbag. But that’s not something to fret about anymore. Today, there are plenty of stylish and functional yet affordable luxury bag options available out there under the $1000 price range – mostly preloved.
In this post, I will be sharing the 21 best designer bags under $1000 from some of the high-end fashion brands in the world that you can splurge on if you are on a budget. I will also share some of the things you need to know when investing in the best designer handbag.
The Best Luxury Handbag Brands to Invest In
Each brand’s designer handbag collection possess something unique that you and I are interested in. Sometimes it’s the reputation, the prestige, the rarity, or the craftsmanship. But whatever the reason we all want a piece of it.
That said, here’s is a closer look at some of the top designer handbag brands that have a collection of bags for sale at under $1000.
- Mulberry
- Loewe
- Saint Laurent
- Givenchy
- Chloe
- Louis Vuitton
- Gucci
- Alexander McQueen
- Louboutin
- Strathberry
- Balenciaga
- Dior
- Prada
- Chanel
- Stella McCartney
- Emporio Armani
- Valentino
- Fendi
- Celine
As you’ll most likely notice most of these designer bags under the $1000 range are produced mostly from highly durable and desirable non-leather textiles or canvas.
21 Best Designer Bags under $1000
1. Mulberry Antony Leather Crossbody Bag
The iconic Anthony Crossbody bag from Mulberry is a unisex messenger bag that exemplifies the brand’s idea of discreet elegance. Thoughtfully designed the Anthony features a functional shape and can be worn over the shoulder or across the body thanks to its adjustable canvas straps.
Just like you’d expect from any top brand, this iconic bag comes in different sizes and colors all of which feature Mulberry’s Postman’s Lock signature detailing, natural grain leather construction, and a slip pocket underneath the suede-lined flap. What’s more, this version is more spacious thanks to its slightly increased base.
2. Loewe – Small Leather-Trimmed Woven Raffia Tote
At less than a $1000, the Small leather-trimmed woven raffia tote from Loewe is total steal. Ever since they were launched, the Raffia bags have been a fan favorite and are synonymous with beach holidays.
Their perfect small size is designed to stow all of your day-to-day essentials from sunscreen lotions to your sunglasses through your holiday adventures. That said, the Raffia bags feature an open top, and are handcrafted from natural materials trimmed with tan leather that’s engraved with the brand’s iconic motif.
3. Saint Laurent – Grain De Poudre Matelasse Monogram Baby Lou Camera Bag Black
Crafted in Italy from beautiful, black, chevron-quilted calfskin leather, this elegant and compact shoulder bag is enough for your weekend or date night essentials.
The Grain De Poundre features a tasseled wrap around zipper and a gold YSL monogram detail on the front. The interior on the other hand features a black fabric. There is also a gold chain-link shoulder strap which is optional.
4. Givenchy Lambskin Baby Antigona with Chain Black
If you are looking for a designer bag that that gives you value for money then the Givenchy Lambskin Baby Antigona with Chain Black is a perfect choice. At slightly over $500, this sleekly designed bag is constructed from soft, black, lambskin leather – which gives it its luxurious looks.
The exterior also features black stitches and the brand’s name stamped at the face. More still the bag features a detachable curb chain shoulder strap in polished silver hardware. Finally, there is a top zipper that opens to a black fabric interior.
5. Chloé Mini Marcie Leather Bag
At under $1000, the Mini Marcie Leather bag by Chloe is another classic, compact, yet attractive crossbody style designer handbag ideal for a more casual look. Made from small grain calfskin, this round saddle mini bag exemplifies the Chloe’s iconic Marcie line of products.
For one the Mini Marcie combines a unique 70’s spirit with a passionate, laidback touch. Secondly, the rounded design and the clean top-line is unique to the brand’s play on feminine and masculine notes. In terms of features, the Mini Marcie features a dangling tassel, a glimmer of brass hardware, and contrasting saddle stitches that embellish the front flap.
6. Louis Vuitton Pochette Accessoires
The Pochette Accessoires by Louis Vuitton is one of the bestselling designer handbags under the $1000 price range (even cheaper if you get a high qaulity Louis Vuitton Replica as covered in our in-depth guide). Loved for its iconic style, the Pochette Accessoires is a collectable piece of art that is highly coveted by most vintage lovers.
Measuring 23.5 cm x 13.5 cm x 4 cm (Length X Height X Width), the Pochette Accessoires can hold a zippy wallet and various accessories for your everyday use. And just like you would expect from top designer brands, the bag features natural cowhide leather trimmings while the body is crafted from top quality canvas that features the brand’s signature monogram print.
To maintain its iconic look, the bag’s hardware pieces are made from golden metallic pieces including the zipper. What’s more, the interior is made from textile with an interior flat pocket that offers additional storage. The strap is however nonadjustable but it is removable. The base is also reinforced so that when you set it down it stands like a bag.
7. GG Supreme Dionysus Super Mini Bag
Most of the top designer bag brands tend to release new handbag styles that either stay in style or go out of style after a few years into the market. One such brand is Gucci. However, there is one designer handbag style that never seems to run out of style and that’s the GG Supreme Dionysus Super Mini Bag.
Sold at under $1000, the GG Supreme Dionysus is an iconic and classic designer handbag that is worth investing in. But why is that? For one, the suede-trimmed GG supreme canvas combined with the palladium-toned tiger head spur gives it a unique outlook.
Secondly, the mini bag goes with nearly everything in your closet and works for all seasons. One thing, however, is the size of the bag. It’s too small. So if you are not a minimalist kind of a person, this bag might not be for you. But if you just need something decent to hold your smartphone, credit cards, and maybe your lip balm – this is for you.
8. Alexander McQueen Skull Crossbody
If you are looking for a designer bag under $1000 that will always leave a statement then the Alexander McQueen Skull Crossbody is a perfect find. Ideal for evening dates or those wild night outs, this iconic bag is crafted from real leather with crocodile effects and is embellished with a skull stud on the front.
The crossbody bag also packs a myriad of crucial details that makes it highly noticeable. For example, the bag boasts of gold-tone hardware, high shine finish, fold over top with magnetic fasting, chain-link shoulder strap, a spacious interior compartment, and an interior slot for holding your credit cards. It’s available in different colors.
9. Maison Christian Louboutin Cabata N/S Mini Tote Bag
You’ve probably been spending a lot on Louboutin shoes and you need a bag from the same brand under $1000 that sparks a touch of sophistication. Well, the Louboutin Cabata N/S Mini tote bag is an excellent choice.
Elegant and timeless, this classy looking tote bag is crafted from smooth black grained calfskin which is a clear indication of its sturdiness. The dramatic signature spikes at the base of the handles as well as the red interior and red lining at the bottom give it a stunning look and a more edgy appearance.
What is interesting about this bag is that it is spacious and you can carry it in the hand or wear it on your shoulder. As such you can use it for your everyday errands.
10. Strathberry Mini East/West Leather Crossbody Bag
With its trademark design, the Strathberry Mini East/West is a practical and elegant crossbody that is well-defined by its clean-lined silhouette which makes it easily recognizable. This iconic bag features dual length chain shoulder strap and gleaming gold hardware that gives it that luxurious look.
The bag is crafted from the best calf leather which explains its smooth exterior while the lining is crafted from suede like microfiber. The interior is well divided for easy organization and there is a wall pocket where you can store your credit cards.
11. Balenciaga Gossip BB Logo Croc Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag
When it comes to designer handbags under $1000, Balenciaga is admittedly one of the hardest brands that slides under the $1000 price range. The Gossip BB Logo Croc Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag is however one of the most fairly priced handbag that you can get at below $1000 from sites like nordstrom.com and fashionphile.com.
That said, the Gossip BB is one unique bag that screams elegance. Crafted in Italy with crocodile embossed calfskin leather, this handbag features a rectangular design with perfect rounded edges that are complemented with the BB logo on the front.
The straps are adjustable and you can also remove them if you want. It also has a snap closure that opens into an interior open compartment, an interior zip pocket and two interior slip pockets that allow you to organize your items.
12. Christian Dior Patent Cannage Lady Dior Rendezvous Wallet On Chain Black
A Christian Dior bag under $1000? Well, it sounds weird. The fact of the matter is, just like Balenciaga, it’s hard to find Christian Dior bags under the 1000 dollar mark. However, the good news is that you can get pre-loved Dior handbags and one of them is the Patent Cannage Lady Dior.
Ideal for evening dates, this iconic luxury handbag is crafted from patented calfskin leather that is distinguished by the brand’s emblematic signature cannage topstitching. The look is furthermore complemented by DIOR charms a detachable chain shoulder straps.
The bag also features a frontal flap that opens into a nylon lined interior that features a zip pocket comprised of six credit card slots, three compartments, and a zip pocket.
13. PRADA Tessuto Nylon Mini Re-Edition 2000
If there is one bag that you should add to your collection it’s the Re-Edition 2000. Since Prada brought it back, the bag has been all hyped up and luckily you can get it at less than 1000 bucks.
Just like most Prada products, the Tessuto Mini Re-edition 2000 seamlessly complements your look whether during the day or at night. Crafted from sturdy beige Tessuto nylon this bag is nicely structured and superbly durable. It’s also composed of silver hardware, a top zipper that opens to a jacquard fabric interior, and a nylon shoulder strap.
14. Chanel – Caviar Quilted Flap Phone Holder Wallet
This probably the tiniest designer bag in this list under $1000. Entirely unique in its own way, the Caviar Quilted Wallet or Clutch comes with a different twist.
Measuring 5.25 in by 3.25 in by 0.75 in (Length X Height X Width), this tiny luxe is crafted from diamond quilted caviar leather and a gold CC logo that’s strategically embedded at the flap. The CC front flap opens into a padded fabric interior that comprises of numerous card slots.
15. Stella McCartney Shaggy Deer Mini Falabella
The Mini Falabella by Stella McCartney is a unique and stylish crossbody bag that can be worn for various occasions and purposes. The bag can be used either as a shoulder bag or as clutch. All you need to do is tuck the silver curb chain into the purse and use it as clutch.
That said the bag is crafted of iridescent vegan fabric and an interior with a patch pocket made of recycled polyester. To keep your items safe the bag features a magnetic fastener.
16. Saint Laurent Blogger Bag
Sometimes all you want is something simple and classy – but also one that leaves a statement. And the mini Blogger Bag by Saint Laurent is a perfect choice especially when you want to go out for a drink with the girls.
Unique to its looks the Mini Blogger bag features a leather strap and detachable chain which means that you can wear it as a crossbody bag or as a shoulder bag. To keep your essentials safe, there is a zipper enclosure at the top.
17. Emporio Armani Logo Strap Tote
If you are a stylish lady who loves to wear classics then the Logo Strap Tote by Armani is a great selection. Made from 100% Polyurethane and 100% Polyester, this tote bag features logo printed shoulder straps, a pebbled texture, concealed press stud fastening, dual top handles, gold tone hardware, and front logo stamp. For your convenience the bag has a removable pouch and wide base that ensures that when you set it down it does not fall off.
18. Gucci GG Marmont Mini Bucket Bag
Practical, elegant, and very classy, the Gucci GG Marmont Mini Bucket Bag is a perfect mini crossbody bucket bag that you can wear for your everyday errands. Although classified as a mini bag, the GG Marmont can hold most of your essentials and still maintain that compact look.
That said, the GG Marmont is crafted of matelassé leather (black) with chevron motif. The bag’s design is inspired by the 1970’s archival design and is equally complemented by the brand’s double G logo at the front. It also features a detachable key ring, a drawstring closure, a chain string strap, and suede like microfiber lining, and antique gold toned hardware.
19. Valentino Pebbled Calfskin Rockstud Crossbody Bag
Whenever you have to spend your hard earned cash on a designer bag, one thing you need to be assured of (aside from the prestige) is the promise that it will stand the test of time. Well, the Valentino Pebbled Calfskin Rockstud crossbody bag is one that gives you that surety.
Made from finely textured leather, this elegant, timeless, and all-round designer bag stands out among its peers. Stunning to the eye, the bag features a studded front flap, studded borders, and gold studded leather shoulder strap that adds to the details.
20. Fendi Calfskin Petite 2Jours Tote
The Calfskin Petite 2Jours Tote by Fendi is one of the most inspirational handbags under $1000 in terms of design, practicability, and class. Carried by dual rolled leather top handles or via a leather shoulder strap, this bag is designed to accommodate most of your essentials and you can use it for your daily errands or work.
As an assurance of quality, the bag is crafted of smooth calfskin leather and features a silver and black top crest and a polygonal logo charm. The interior is equally stunning and it’s made of leather with various compartments.
21. Celine Nubuck Elephant Calfskin Mini
If you are lover of vintage looking designer bags, then this beautiful Nubuck leather bag by Celine will send chills down your spine. Elegantly designed, this mini bag can be worn as an evening or everyday bag.
Crafted of calfskin and nubuck leather in brown and beige, this stylish mini tote features decorative leather detailing sew to perfection, an exterior zipper pocket, antique gold hardware, and two top rolled handles. On top, there is a zipper that opens to a green khaki interior comprising of a zipper pocket.
Final Word – 21 Best Designer Bags under $1000
The ultimate dream for every girl out there is to own a designer bag. But as you’ve probably already realized, designer bags from top brands under the 1000 dollar mark are a difficult find. However, you can still find awesome pre-loved designer bags from various online stores.
Besides its way easier to spend less than a thousand bucks on a pre-owned or vintage designer bag than spending three thousand bucks in a designer boutique to buy a new one. You need to treat yourself occasionally, and there is no better way than gifting yourself a designer bag under $1000.