28 Timeless Handbags That Look Really Expensive

I've been called a "crazy bag lady" by my closest fashion friends and boyfriend (who, admittedly, bears the brunt of my purse-hunting obsession with the closet space I've slowly taken over), so I know a thing or two about purses, from $20 thrifted finds to high-quality luxury buys that have taken me years to save up for. To call me anything but a handbag aficionado would be an understatement. So when I say that next year's biggest handbag trend will continue to be understated, sleek styles that blend seamlessly into any era of your wardrobe, you better believe me.
While handbag trends come and go, there will always be a dedicated section in my heart for "buy now, wear forever" bags that look incredibly expensive. For the most part, any bag that has a neutral color, simple design, and no logo will do the trick, but more and more designers are pushing the boundaries on minimalist handbags that still feel fun without being too over-the-top.
Below, browse minimalist handbags at every price point that look incredibly luxe. If you buy more than one from this list, don't say I didn't warn you!

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
-
Alessandro Michele Channels Soft Elegance and Light Romance For Valentino Spring 2026
Sheer fabrics, structured shoulders, sequins, and lots of bows.
-
Elegance, Innovation, and Meghan Markle—Pierpaolo Piccioli Makes His Debut at Balenciaga
Inside the spring/summer 2026 collection titled ‘The Heartbeat'.
-
I’m a Senior Shopping Editor—Here’s Everything I Highly Recommend Buying From the Mango Sale
Get 30% off just about everything
-
I Want to Be Old Money, But I Work 9 to 5—These 23 Workbags Make Me Feel Rich
Carry everything in style.
-
Thanks to It Girls With Good Taste, This Anti-Trend Bag Style Is What Everyone Wants RN
Hailey Bieber just proved it again.
-
I'm a Stylist—These Are the Only Bags You Need for a Foolproof Capsule Collection
From Balenciaga to Phoebe Philo.
-
Fine, I Won’t Gatekeep—These 27 Abercrombie Finds Are Too Chic to Miss (and They're All On Sale)
I can't decide which fall pick is my favorite.
-
I’m a Senior Shopping Editor—These 29 On-SaleReplica Store Basics Are Instant Closet Staples
Bring on chic, effortless fall outfits.
-
Calvin Klein's '90s Collections Will Always Be My Blueprint for Fall Dressing
Fall 1994 especially.
-
Whoa, Everything Is on Sale at Madewell Right Now—Some of These Chic Items Rarely Get Discounted
At 30% off, these are bound to sell out.