A handbag is more than just a practical accessory to hold your belongings—it’s also a personal style statement. Whether you’re signalling your staff, browbeating the opposition or simply carrying all of your crap, a bag is the perfect piece to help define your personality and get you through the day in style.
But a good bag doesn’t necessarily mean you need to shell out a fortune. Luckily, you can find a designer bag that fits your needs on a budget, thanks to the booming luxury fashion resale market and an ever-expanding range of options from which to choose.
Here’s where to start.
When shopping for a bag, consider the fabric first: if you’re looking for something that can be used for everyday wear or travel, a sturdy canvas style is a great option. Avoid fabrics that can get soaked through by water or by clinging to wet clothes (like leather), and steer clear of delicate materials like suede that can be damaged with excessive use or exposure to the elements.
A good starting point for finding a designer bag that fits your budget is to look for an item from a label with a history of making durable, quality bags. Look for a bag with sturdy metal buckles and fastenings; reinforced stitching at stress points; durable zip closures (look for those labelled “YKK”); and protective leather piping on corners and edges.
MINTEGRA Women Shoulder Handbag Roomy Multiple Pockets Bag Ladies Crossbody Purse Fashion Tote Top Handle Satchel
$32.39 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
SYTRAH Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse for Women, Crossbody Shoulder Bag with Built-in Wallet & RFID Blocking for Travel Workout
$23.75 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Vera Bradley Premium Cotton Original 100 Handbag
$135.00 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
CYHTWSDJ Shoulder Bags for Women, Cute Hobo Tote Handbag Mini Clutch Purse with Zipper Closure
$16.98 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Montana West Tote Bags for Women Medium Top Handle Satchel Purses
$29.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
APHISON Trendy Leather Crossbody Purse with Adjustable Strap, Women's Shoulder Handbag
$21.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
YOOLIFE Christmas Gifts for Women - Initial Canvas Tote Bag & Makeup Bag, Birthday Gifts for Women Mom Sister Friends
$35.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Auto Amazon Links: No products found. No products found. http_request_failed: A valid URL was not provided. URL: https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?SearchIndex=All&multipageStart=0&multipageCount=20&Operation=GetResults&Keywords=Buying+a+Handbag+on+a+Budget|Purses+%26+Handbags&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_2a8146bc3a143d2b1067ee3b5c11c6a3