Every woman needs a bag to make an entrance with. Something that does the talking, so she can use her words for the boardroom. We’ve looked into high-end purse brands that feel and smell like luxury and found that not all need to have a major price tag attached.

We’ve scouted looks from Kate Spade, COACH, and Hammitt but also have some options from crowdpleasers, such as Tory Burch, The Sak and more!

With the holidays quickly approaching, we can’t think of a better time to grab a belt bag, tote, or clutch for that special lady in your life. Whether it’s your bestie who loves luxury bags, mom or yourself, a purse is always welcome and needed!

See below for the best of the best in the world of bags, along with some options that will become your favorite stylish addition to your wardrobe.

We think money can buy you happiness; it lies with all the brands below. These splurge-worthy best purse brands will bring you joy if you let them. Invest before they sell out.

A household name in the handbag space, every woman needs a Kate Spade bag. They’re top quality but are accessibly priced considering their craftsmanship, and they often have amazing sales running to make their cost even lower. The classic collection is timeless, but keep an eye out for seasonal drops and adorable novelty bags, too.

With winter nearly here, you can’t go wrong with a suede bag. Our favorite from Kate Spade? The Deco Suede Small Tulip Tote Bag has a dog clip closure and interior pockets. If you’re looking for a smaller, more classic bag for date nights and appointments, the Liv Shoulder Bag is the one to grab. Made with smooth leather, it has two slip pockets (one on the exterior and another on the interior), as well as an adjustable strap so you can wear it as close (or far )as you like.

Best Entry-Level Designer: Hammitt

When it comes to expensive purse brands, we’ve found a reasonably priced yet well-made purse. Hammitt is California-based and places a high value on functionality without compromising style.

Each bag is hand-numbered and made to last a lifetime, with a guaranteed warranty. Shop some of its bestsellers, including this lovely Kyle Med handbag available in multiple colors, but our preferred shade is Mahogany Pebble.

Most Popular: COACH

This brand is iconic, and having a Coach handbag is an important milestone in any collector’s closet, especially for those seeking one of the most popular purse brands around. For longtime fans of this best luxury brand, the classic “C”-printed bags in brown and tan colors are a hallmark, so that’s why it’s no surprise that the newer Gen Z generation has come to obsess over the baguette bags with the same pattern. If you aren’t lucky enough to find a vintage bag while thrifting, don’t worry, as COACH still carries the iconic canvas pattern and more.

New York Post Review: “COACH is obviously iconic, but the brand has come a long way from the “C” bags that were everywhere in the 2000s and 2010s. The classic structures and neutral tones are timeless and appeal to the masses, making the brand a very smart investment for an everyday purse…COACH purses are always high-quality and durable, yet at relatively attainable price points, especially when shopping the outlet.” — Meaghan Seward, Senior Strategist, Audience Optimization & Discovery, Commerce

Best Affordable: Quince

Maybe you don’t care about the cache of designer labels and are more concerned with value for quality. If that’s the case, you’ll love the purses and Quince. The direct-to-consumer retailer has a wide selection of options, perfect for work, play, and even travel.

The Italian Leather Crossbody will be a favorite if you desire a clutch but demand the functionality of a larger bag. And if you require something larger, perhaps for work, go with the Italian Suede Shopper Tote, which Seward also owns and loves.

New York Post Review: “I’ve been eyeing this handsome suede tote from Quince for over a year, and it totally lived up to my expectations. It features on-trend, gorgeous, luxurious-feeling Italian suede throughout. Suede is so trendy for fall 2025, but this bag is genuinely timeless. Its commuter-friendly, roomy interior is perfect for my Hydro Flask, AirPods and other office essentials, and I love that it has both zippered and un-zippered pockets plus a protected laptop sleeve. The outer pockets are useful as well, making this bag just as functional as it is fashionable. I read several reviews saying the suede and color easily transfer onto clothes, so I preemptively treated it with this protective spray. I can’t wait to take this tote from work to happy hour!” — Seward

Charles & Keith makes trendy totes and cute clutches that fit everyday life. I especially love how the brand is currently up to date with the latest trends, like this XL Calla Tote Bag, which I would have sworn was the Polène Cyme Mini at $500, but it’s really just $143.

Ranging in size from petite extra-small clutches to slouchy bags and backpacks, their collections predominantly feature sophisticated neutrals like classic black, rich brown, and crisp white, alongside pops of color for the summer season.

Right now, students can enjoy 15% off full-priced items.

New York Post Review: “The XL Calla Canvas Tote Bag makes a great choice for summer as it carries all your essentials from laptop to keys and comes with a smaller faux leather pouch bag inside to secure any loose items you don’t want rolling around the bottom of your bag. It has a metal closure that secures nicely, and the trim makes it look more expensive than it is.” — Emma Sutton-Williams, former Commerce Reporter

Lusting over leather this season? So are we, starting with Portland Leather’s premium bags. They sell styles for both men and women, and even offer belts, wallets and more small goods. Our favorite, however, has to be the Classic Leather Tote Bag, made out of full-grain leather with an inside and outside pocket.

New York Post Review: “I had my first Portland Leather tote for four years before upgrading to a newer version. I’m hard on my bags and (often testing the limits of their capacity), but these designs really stand the test of time. I carry it every day, and people always ask where it’s from!” — Hannah Southwick, commerce associate editor

Most Celeb-Loved: Vertirsi

Don’t trust us? Take your fave celebs’ word for it. This star-loved brand sells gorgeous luxury leather work bags, convertible backpacks, crossbodies and more. They’re known for their rich, neutral hues, which complement just about any look in your closet.

New York Post Review: “Vestirsi’s leather bags are a celebrity favorite — Emily Blunt and Simone Ashley both carried them during the ‘Devil Wears Prada 2’ press tour — and I can totally see why. They come in plenty of unique colors and silhouettes, but they’re still so timeless. I get so many compliments on mine!” — Southwick

Best to Carry All Your Essentials: Poppy & Peonies

Although Poppy & Peonies is a Post Wanted favorite when it comes to office totes, they also carry everything from backpacks to lunch boxes and diaper bags. Their vegan leather styles, in particular, are stylish, spacious and have multiple compartments to store all your essentials.

New York Post Review: “I am utterly obsessed with this bag from Poppy & Peonies! Large bags never went out of style for me — they’re an essential if you need to carry a laptop and lots of books. What I love about the Poppy Tote is that it has loads of pockets in the interior and thicker straps, which I think are way more comfortable. Beyond that, I love the golden hardware — it really makes this pop. Everyone who sees this bag tells me they love it.” — Holly J Coley, commerce deputy editor

Most Unique Bags for Women: Gap

I always relied on Gap for affordable tops and sweatshirts, but recently, I was put on to GapBags, and I’m thoroughly impressed. The brand’s accessory collection was thrust into the spotlight after the release of the viral, now-sold-out Denim Five-Pocket Tote (aka “the Jerkin”). But that’s not their only standout style. They make small and large bags out of hoodie material, along with backpacks and charms.

Brahmin’s luxury, designer leather handbags make for the perfect holiday gift — for moms, girlfriends and even yourself. Although they’re known for their crossbodies and satchels, we’re in love with their wallets, clutches and keychains as well.

New York Post Review: “Brahmin’s textured bags are one of a kind and come in various colors and styles, which I love. The one I own is the Asher, and it holds everything from my card case to my bulky headphones.” — Nishka Dhawan, commerce reporter.

Stella McCartney, daughter of the esteemed rock star Paul McCartney, makes the hottest It-bag amongst celebrities and civilians alike. Her most popular bag is the Falabella Shaggy Deer Faux Leather Foldover Tote, seen hanging off the shoulders of Kim Kardashian, Kate Hudson, and Anne Hathaway.

McCartney bags are a necessary step to effortless, quiet luxury. They will never go out of style, but her limited-time colors fly off the shelves, so if you have your eye on one, don’t hesitate. It might sell out! If the large tote is too big, consider her smaller mini-me totes that have the same look and feel but are smaller.

New York Post Review: “It’s made of soft, durable suede that holds up really well with a gorgeous chain that feels like jewelry. I own the shimmer-struck tote trimmed with gold, currently available in black and grey. I love this bag because it fits my laptop for work. I know it might sound a bit ridiculous to use a designer bag for such heavy lifting, but honestly, I get more use out of this one than my Chanel. With fewer special occasions than 9-5 workdays, my in-office work routine has me reaching for this bag way more often. And I feel like a million bucks each time I do.” — Sutton-Williams

For those looking to stand out, Melie Bianco’s playful purses are the right place to look. Although the brand does have stunning leather neutrals, they’re also known for structurally intriguing styles. Case in point, a tulip-shaped tote or a dog purse.

New York Post Review: “The brand is famous for its sustainable, cruelty-free designs, and the occasional whimsical option. I can’t tell you how many times someone has stopped me on the street and asked me where my bag is from. This option also came with a sling, in case I wanted to turn it into a crossbody.” -Dhawan

This brand has been in my rotation since I was a teenager, and for good reason. Their bags are fun, flirty and timeless. Each one is hand-beaded in bright, sparkly hues that add a pop of color to your everyday look. Some of the kitschier ones are shaped like cakes, pigeons, martinis and dogs.

New York Post Review: “I have been collecting Susan Alexandra since 2019. It was love at first sight with the beaded bag. The bracelets, bag charms, and every sweet and cute little trinket fulfill my bead(sweet) tooth.” — Michelle Moezam, Sr. commerce social media marketing manager

Best Celebrity-Beloved Brand: Cuyana

If you’d like to join the ranks of celebrities like Meaghan Markle and Jessica Alba for high-quality leather for relatively affordable prices, look no further than Cuyana. Get everything from travel totes to crossbodies. Cuyana focuses on timeless essentials designed to last for a decade, not a season. My personal favorite is the Classic Easy Tote.

Best for Hobo Bags: The Sak

Doesn’t the name say it all? For handbags of any kind, especially for those seeking the best hobo brand purses, head over to The Sak and you’ll find the right one, from the Los Feliz Tote to Sequoia Hobo. For a more classic look, the bestsellers page is full of great choices in many colors and styles, including the 120 Hobo Sak. The homepage makes it easy to select the exact proportions and features that you’re looking for to find “the one.”

Best Leather Bags: HOBO

If you’re looking for a durable and stylish bag to take you through the day-to-day, we highly recommend the purse brand Hobo. From crossbody bags to convertibles, it has an assortment of looks to carry you from day to night, each with an artisanal flare. Free shipping is available for orders of $175 or more, and there’s even a sale under $100 section with lots of cute options.

Can’t choose? Say hello to the Sheila Medium Satchel, which offers plenty of room for basics plus extra! It has a removable strap for when you prefer to carry it by hand, comes in more than five colors, and offers an abundance of pockets for your keys, phone, and wallet.

What Goes Around Comes Around is a not-so-hidden jewel of New York City. It’s where I purchased the most beautiful Chanel of all time, in mint condition and over 25 years old with real gold plating. The sales assistants are very knowledgeable (shoutout to Sydney, who assisted me in SoHo) and can walk you through value, style, and what it will resell for if you are looking for an investment piece. Find everything from YSL to Hermès. What Goes Around Comes Around selects only the finest goods that are in excellent condition.

We also created a designer bag roundup worth the investment to buy and sell your fashion finds when you want to switch it up.

For the woman (or man) on the go, Dagne Dover provides functional, stylish options for carrying your entire life around. Designed with your laptop, accessories, keys, and phone in mind, each style is equipped to get you through the day. From the Dakota Neoprene Backpack for all your hands-free needs to a sophisticated but practical Daily Tote Bag, there is a style for you. Ideal for those seeking the best sustainable purse brand, I’m sure you’ll find something you like.

“Dagne Dover is the queen of neoprene. I wore their Ace Fanny Pack to the Governor’s Ball music festival in New York this summer, and it had the perfect number of pockets, plus purple style that matched my festival look. I also loved the back zipper pocket, a great place for valuables like credit cards and keys, since it lays flush against your body and can deter pickpockets. The purse brand itself is super durable and I would also recommend their duffles for an airport personal item or a weekend road trip.” — Sophie Cannon, former manager of commerce strategy & development

Minor History is a brand that exemplifies quiet luxury, offering pieces crafted from premium leather that serve as classic staples without flashy logos or embellishments.

Thoughtfully eco-conscious, Minor History has removed plastic fillers and liners commonly found in handbags, creating pieces that are both beautiful and responsible. We especially love The Overtime Leather Tote for a timeless carryall and the smaller crossbody from The Frame Collection.

What sets the brand apart in today’s market is its unusual commitment to longevity: every item comes with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring that in the rare event of a manufacturing or material defect, your purchase will be repaired or replaced. For those who value craftsmanship, sustainability, and timeless style, Minor History is a top choice.

Ever the trendsetter, Marc Jacobs can always be trusted to bring us innovative designs with a modern edge. A must-consider for those who love a statement piece, the bags from the designer are made to stand out. Whether it be a mini bag with a removable strap or a tote for fabulous weekend trips, you’re sure to find something to make your outfit pop! Items can be found as low as $250.

This is another super-recognizable brand, and not just because of the iconic logo on the front of many of its bags. Tory Burch purses are timeless, and even the new seasonal collections can really be worn any time of the year (and for years after their launch), making them worth the investment. Luckily, even the new styles are sold online at Saks Fifth Avenue, so you can get your hands on a handbag without leaving your home.

What is the best brand of purse to buy?

When it comes to fashion, the best of anything is often relative to one’s personal taste. However, if you’re interested in high-end purse brands Kate Spade and Coach remain popular amongst shoppers.

Along with being recognizable names in the fashion industry, each designer never fails to bring a fresh perspective to their classic style house, which seems to resonate with shoppers.

Many women love Kate Spade for its easy-to-carry design, as well as for the storage it offers. We love it for all the color options it comes in, as well as its exterior, which is made from a combo of Italian and pebbled leather.  

The Lana 23 is a bestseller at Coach and has a sophisticated look with its delicately slouchy sides and spacious interior. We like carrying it as a handbag, but it also has a strap to wear it crossbody style.

What brand of handbags are trending?

Handbags and designer purse brands are a great way to follow trends without completely redoing your wardrobe. They can also dress up a basic outfit, making one look effortlessly polished and of the now.

Currently, a lot of fashionable folks are searching Furla Handbags, which start around $238. One of the most admired Italian purse brands, it’s been around since 1927, and has been a trusted name when it comes to designer purses and accessories.

If you love designer handbags but are watching your coins, consider shopping places like Fashionphile and FarFetch for certified, pre-owned designer finds. You’ll be shocked by what you find, as well as the excellent condition of these fashion collectibles.

What are the best luxury purse brands?

If you’re searching for name-brand purses, there are a handful of designers that continue to be well-regarded in the fashion industry. While many of the pieces are investments, lots of ladies find it almost a rite of passage to have at least one “big girl bag” from one of them.

Some of these brands include:

This article was written by Emma Sutton-Williams, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter and resident fashionista. Emma is one of the best-dressed ladies in The Post’s office, and also known for finding an unbelievable deal on any one of her stylish outfits. Divulging on everything from designer launches, sales and dupes to the most-popular and most-underrated purse brands to luxurious silk pajama brands, Emma has cultivated an eye for style and an expertise for identifying the clothes and accessories worth your coin. At the same time, she proudly models the products she picks so you can see their fit and function first-hand. Emma has been creating shopping guides for The Post since 2024, and previously held bylines in Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Parents, InStyle, StyleCaster and more.

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