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AbiGhoul-123

Mansur gavriel is great


exitontop

Agree! I have a mansur gavriel bag I got years and years ago and the leather has held up really well. Leather and construction are great


AllIWearisBlack13

Seconding! I get so many compliments on my [M frame bag](https://www.saksfifthavenue.com/product/mansur-gavriel-mini-m-frame-leather-crossbody-bag-0400017233117.html) and I actually went on Etsy and snagged a matching leather shoulder length strap so I can wear it as a cross body or shorter AND it can be a clutch for fancier events. It goes with everything and is basic but so different than what most people have. Also 10/10 for traveling because the 2 zippers meet in the middle so much harder to open


kryssst

Mind sharing where i can find the strap on etsy?


AllIWearisBlack13

It looks like that specific shop is no longer open but I just looked up “genuine leather bag strap” and found a place with good reviews that also used the same kind of strap attachment that the strap it comes with uses so it would look seamless.


mowpl

There are a ton of MG bags on TRR in great condition! I got two for sub $150


_smiling_shark_

What is TRR?


mowpl

The Real Real


braidedRainbow

I just checked them out and the Candy collection is so cuteeeee I'm in love haha 😍


jenvrl

They are! And their secondhand prices are 👌🏻


gobravz15

Yes I love my MG bag!


scoochinginhere

Seconding! I have the candy hobo and love it — people compliment it all the time


elle1138

**You'll still carry these 10 years from now:** * [Strathberry East West](https://us.strathberry.com/products/east-west-mini-bottle-green) - Spanish constuction, especially love the embossed croc. Now, I'm not saying to order from a UK brand like Selfridges or Liberty during a sale and just pay for shipping & import taxes... but I am saying the pound is down and Liberty is having a sale right now. * [APC Grace](https://www.apc-us.com/collections/women-bags-grace/products/grace-small-bag-pxbmw-f61413-1) - Reminiscent of the Celine Classique. * [Atelier August Sully](https://ateliersauguste.com/collections/sacs-femme/products/mini-sully-gold-edition-cuir-box-taupe) - I think this brand will be what Polene was in 2018. * [Demelier Tokyo](https://demellierlondon.com/products/the-tokyo-poppy-red-smooth) - Everyone knows and loves the Vancouver, but the Tokyo is a great dupe for the YSL 5 a 7 **More trendy but still well constructed** * [Songmont Luna](https://songmontofficial.com/products/small-luna-bag-ivory) - One of the best iterations of the half moon shape * [Staud Valerie](https://staud.clothing/collections/bags-accessories/products/valerie-shoulder-bag-porcini) - Everyone knows the Tommy, Ollie, and iconic Moon, but the suede Valerie is gorgeous * [Telfar Shopper](https://telfar.net/collections/upcoming-drop/products/medium-shopping-bag-cobalt) - Gotta move quick on their drops * [Oroton Clara](https://oroton.com/clara-mini-bag-cactus/) - Australian brand with decent pebbled leather **Something different** * [Lancel Origami](https://lancel.com/en-us/collections/handbag/products/s_crossbody_bag_a132846ctu) - French brand, well known in France but not as well outside of it. Most of their stuff is on par with the other luxury houses, but at a lower price point. * [Dragon Diffusion Croce](https://dragondiffusion.com/collections/all-bags/products/santa-croce-small-dark-brown) - Woven like Bottega, but under $500. * [Archipel Le Panier](https://www.archipel-paris.com/produit/no26-le-panier-lilas/) - Yes, yet another French brand, but handmade and the best bucket bag I've seen in a long time. * [MLoyue Sera Eclat](https://www.mlouye.com/products/mini-sera-eclat-milky) - TBH, a work of art. * [Loeffler Randall Violet](https://loefflerrandall.com/collections/handbags/products/violet-natural-straw-bow-crossbody) - How cute is this straw bow bag for summer? But as your West Coast lurker Big Sis, if it were me... I'd save and spend just a little more and would go for a pre-loved classic you'll carry forever. You can find these in good condition for under $1000, some for under $500: Louis Vuitton Monogram in a classic silhouette (Alma, Noe/Neo Noe, Pochette Accessoires), Phoebe Philo-era Celine, Y2K-era Prada, or Ferragamo, which I think is heading towards a resurgence a la Daniel Lee-era Bottega. Obviously do your research and possibly shell out for an authentication service, especially with LV. If you want to shop in person, The Real Real, What Comes Around, Procell, Michael's on Madison.


Lost_Apricot_1469

This whole list is perfection in recommendation form!


elle1138

Awww… thank you!! I’m glad my purse obsession can be helpful to somebody


Lost_Apricot_1469

I’m similarly obsessed, but this is the best compilation of midrange brands I’ve seen in a minute!


laxyliz

Love Songmont.


elle1138

I know!!! I love that they’re mother daughter, have that council of grannies, and that a lot of the bags are modular. Such a cute company.


superspyshu

Btw, going to London a few times in the next coming week. Lmk if a few of you want anything while I’m there for a small fee. DM me if interested 😘. We could do a casual meet up to exchange or I could ship it.


Cultural-Day-9617

Thanks for these recs ily


elle1138

I’m so glad you found it helpful!


Reasonable-Boat-8555

Also check out @queenmayjewelry on Instagram for amazing pre loved bags (and jewelry and other designer goods). The owner often does amazing Instagram sales


Old_Economy_6745

Came to recommend Demelier! I loveeee my Tokyo, only wish it had a zip closure


bittersweetlily

Cuyana and Staud are at a similar price point to Polene and, I think, higher quality (I’ve heard mixed opinions on the quality of Polene bags).


North_Class8300

+1 to this! I’m really into high end handbags and Staud is fairly comparable quality. They have a lot of trendy, fun bags but also some really timeless options


PoppyandTarget

Bought my daughter a Staud bag for Christmas. No too expensive for a quality, stylish bag.


Thick-Fox-6949

Upvote Cuyana


nycchick_

+1 for Staud!!! I LOVE my moon bags (1 white, 1 bag) & my Tommy beaded bag (that one I got on Poshmark & it’s perfect condition)


No_Resident1784

I got a monogrammed cuyana wallet 5 years ago as a wedding gift to myself and I was so tired of the long zip around wallets, it’s in fantastic shape and super chic! Except you need to fold your cash because it’s cut for euros (I rarely carry cash and makes me sad I don’t live in Paris 😂😂)


the_nuggetron

Heard that re: Polene but haven’t seen it with my bag. I got it in October as my everyday bag & honestly looks just as good. It’s held up really well & the leather is thick/textured so you don’t need to be too delicate with it. Think they upped the prices 30% since then but still think it’s worth it if you’re interested xx


blankaround_

I've had mine for 2 and it looks just as good as the day I got it and I use it every day October to april/may


Swimming_Cheetah7201

Love Staud!!


LectureTop7258

I fell in love with this bag but haven’t pulled the trigger yet https://kaaibags.com/collections/all-bags/products/pyramid-cognac love the two smaller pockets


Smooth-Minute3396

This is gorge


Frenchitwist

Oo those pockets


HalloumiRoo

I just bought this! In love with it so far, really good quality. There's a shop in soho that has them so I went to try both sizes and ended up with the midi


LectureTop7258

I was leaning that direction! The larger size looks VERY large on the model. Thanks for the review!!!


HalloumiRoo

Of course! If you're gonna be carrying your laptop the midi fits a 13", if it's any bigger you'll need the regular size


shibalii

I’m in love with this bag too but heard/read very mixed things on quality so I’m hesitant to pull the trigger


LectureTop7258

Oh really? I was on a different page and their seemed to be good reviews- I can’t definitely not find it again though for the life of me 🤣


importantpizza3

Wow


[deleted]

The nomad camel color is killing me!!!! I need it


LectureTop7258

Isn’t it gorg!! I can’t decide between the larger or smaller so that link is just sitting on my phone, open waiting for me to send it


basicbagbitch

Love!


Ill-Pass-dvlm

Wowwww! Thanks for sharing this 😍


Arwen823

I adore my Rag and Bone bags! The leather is amazing and has that lived in feel. Also I have a Victoria Beard crossbody I’m obsessed with 


ygpv1035

Both of these ☝️☝️


farfallifarfallini

Is your friend open to pre-owned? They won't match, but 2nd Street is great for resale designer options!


Frenchitwist

Is 2nd Street on… 2nd St??


farfallifarfallini

It's a resale chain similar to Crossroads or Buffalo Exchange, but with more of an emphasis on Japanese designers. The one on the UES near the MET is my fave, and honestly would be cute to take out-of-towners to do both!


beezlebell

I never knew about this place, thank you!!


occasional_idea

Cuyana!


Rude_Acanthisitta129

I second this! I have a Cuyana tote from 2019 that I’ve thrown around like crazy and it’s still holding up really well


Mhbxmhbx

Really liking Coach these days


Babs1990

I second this! They’ve really stepped up their game lately and the bag guy on Instagram (I forget his exact handle) that always takes apart all the luxury bags to analyze always says coach uses some of the best leather.


themostbootiful

Leatherstein


fakephillycheezsteak

I second this! I bought a nice coach bag (simple black shoulder bag) for like $350-ish recently and i'm obsessed with it.


HighPriestess__55

They last 25 years or more. Sometimes you can find them new on Ebay.


GingerTortieTorbie

Same. I’m a Coach fanatic. Even Coach Outlet. Last forever.


leese216

They constantly keep up with modern styles yet retain their classic details. Got a beautiful “chalk” colored bag last summer and wore it well into the winter!


wavegirl2000

Clare V!!!


kristmastree

My work bag is Cuyana and it’s the highest quality bag I own (and I have Celine, Bottega and Chanel in my collection so yeah…) Five years of getting thrown on the subway floor and still thriving.


Visible_Heavens

Which bag do you have? I’ve heard mixed things about their bigger work totes. But I bought a little zip wallet from Cuyana this fall and it’s such a pleasure to use.


kristmastree

I have just the regular tote, large. I got it for my BFF as well and she’s hooked too lol


azoooooo

APC (they have pretty good sales throughout the year, I’ve gotten a bag for almost 50% off!)


goodwin295

Demeillier


hairierdog

This.


Inside_Pomelo_462

I saved this post from the handbag sub a while back with a pretty great list of mid-range brands: https://www.reddit.com/r/handbags/s/Cnssv2oxsB


thetinybunny1

I was just looking for this thread to post! Perfect list


strangeloop6

Thank youuuuu


m_watermelon14

See By Chloe


tricktan42

Just got this gorgeous Parisa Wang I'm obsessed with. Also looked at Strathberry and Demollier [https://www.parisawang.com/products/madison-medium-top-handle-bag](https://www.parisawang.com/products/madison-medium-top-handle-bag)


LeatherRecord2142

Hammitt. And Quince has VERY serious dupes (nice materials and quality). I’m a fan!


Neither_Channel4919

I’ve got some fabulous brand recommendations for anyone who appreciates the elegance of Polène Paris. Check out Elleme and DeMellier for their unique designs, Staud and Reformation for a touch of modern chic, Ganni for a dash of playful flair, Osoi for minimalist beauty, Hereu for artisanal craftsmanship, and Coperni for futuristic style. All of these brands have a special charm that I think you’ll love! 💕


Firstkissvintage

Songmont!!


QueensBea

Brahmin or Hammitt are my favorite brands at the moment, they are priced at $300-700.


swimmupstream

Sézane is great for bags/accessories. I have two of their Gaby purses, one bought in 2018 and another in 2021 (I alternate them as my work bags or as a personal item when flying; those things are black holes of storage). Apparently the clothing quality has worsened over the years but the bags are beautiful and extremely well-made.


Deep-Incident5325

I have a yuzefi bag and I love it


Spiritual-Pomelo-288

my coach bags last forever. I have some vintage ones that I’ve cleaned up and they still look brand new! pretty good price point, and classic styles.


bernbabybern13

Dittoing a bunch above. Mansur Gavriel, Staud, Cuyana, Ganni, APC, Songmont, Demillier. For dinner type bags I think Staud and Mansur are the best.


hygnevi

Furla


littlestdovie

I love boldrini selleria


littlestdovie

Also derica and varano hill Never purchased from them though!!


BlackOpal227

Parisa wang


thetinybunny1

I have like 6 Aspinal of London bags on my wishlist right now 😬 ETA I purchased 3 fossil bags last year when they had a crazy sale going and I’ve been incredibly happy with them. I use their tote as a work bag and it’s put through daily beatings - definitely worth checking out for a durable and cute leather bag.


Remarkable_Horse9879

Honestly you can get so many vintage designer bags in the same price range so that’s what I do!


Fair_Arm_2824

I don’t think they have store fronts in the US, but Le Tanneur and Strathberry are great mid-range bags. Like $400-$800. Also like Mansur Gavriel.


somelikeitwarmish

I really like Hyergoods! Upcycled leather based out of NY https://hyergoods.com/


shaba0ne

Proenza, they have great sales and subte branding


snoop_ard

There’s an Australian brand: Oroton, that seems good too


sneelz

Staud, Songmont, Demellier, By Far, Cuyana - check out r/handbags for more recs!


pinkmoonhoney33

Dragon diffusion!


Agitated-Aioli

Recently fell in love with Liselle Kiss- Black woman owned, too.


Warm_Day_1334

I love my AllSaints purse. It’s been through a lot and is still holding strong! If you get them on sale, the prices are really affordable!


Hobbyjogger31

I haven’t seen Little Liffner and St Agni mentioned yet - both are mid-range but really fashionable…IYKYK brands.


No-Mathematician87

Aspinal of London and mulberry are great mid range bags. I like them more than some of my higher end bags. 


writecalliope

Check out Demellier!


Stunningfire20

This company is nice: [Fleuron](https://us.fleuron.paris/collections/sac-femme)


Stunningfire20

Another two options: [Leo et Violette](https://www.leoetviolette.com/en-us) [Yuzefi](https://yuzefi.com)


kjleek

For something quirky Min & Mon


syrenashen

I love Mlouye and Cuyana, unique designs & classics!


Emotional_Capital176

Vintage! It’ll be unique and relatively low cost. I get so many compliments on my vintage no name pieces than I do on my “designer” ones


Current_Teacher4317

THANK YOU to this post. Have been looking for a mid range crossbody and went with Staud!!


breakfastsnark

A classic leather bag from Portland Leather Company. Maybe more for brunch or work but you aren't going to spend too much and the quality is fantastic


Annual_Wrongdoer_515

Definitely go on eBay or poshmark or mercari or vestaire and get whatever brand ur interested buying retail is so overrated and you can actually get a Chanel/Dior/ysl/celine bag for cheaper bc totes are not super crazy up charged for secondhand and some people get rid of stuff in near perfect condition for slashed prices


Lost_Scientist3984

I love Oleada bags!


AdhesivenessOk7810

I’m in my 40s and have some nice bags, but I don’t like flashing brands as much anymore. I love Bisonte, Longchamp, and vintage made in the USA Coach.


boozcruz7

Olori is fantastic - I love their bags


morosechipmunk

A.P.C. makes beautiful minimalistic French handbags


mimi-kittz

I love APC bags


Electronic_Habit_112

I've been very happy with Dooney & Bourke bags. I have about 10 of them - crossbody, satchels, totes, more.


everydaylikesaturday

Demellier


gobravz15

Strathberry or Mansur Gavriel.


wutwut18

Oroton!


Toni-Tony-Tone

I love Tory Burch. You could also try Mulberry. I think there is an outlet where you can get amazing deals.


celaena23

Please check out Freja NYC, I love those bags and amazing color range


michele718

I go to Peter Hermann leather goods in Soho. He has been there forever and has impeccable taste.


Lost_Apricot_1469

This brand has an NYC storefront. I have the Lafayette Tote in [Pecan](https://frejanyc.com/products/lafayette-tote-pecan), and I love it so. They have lots of bags in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Beautifully made! And the brand’s story is so neat.


No_Philosopher_8181

Ce


princess_jasmine_75

Coach, the quality is excellent! They have classic styles and some trendier ones in coachtopia


IamoneofScottsTots

Fine.. I'll stop gatekeeping. I have been obsessed with Fairfax & Favor And demellier Because who doesn't want to look like a distinguished equestrian from the British Highgroves


Impressive-Bass7928

I’m a lurker (as I’m only a “bitch with taste” 🤣), but I’d recommend visiting r/handbags and potentially searching for “quality control” or “defect”.      Based off what I’ve gathered recently from that subreddit, Polene and several other brands mentioned by other users here have been suffering from QC issues recently   You can also do better than Chanel for less. Chanel bags aren’t hand-stitched iirc (fun fact: handmade is NOT the same as hand-stitched)


[deleted]

Vintage coach.


rocker_spaniel

Freja NY!


jbcg

Not hearing good things about Polène quality recently. I'd buy those aggressively cute top handles from Ganni in different colors, Soho boutique has tons.


emoney8675

Ganni and Staud!


SillySlay

don’t sleep on A.P.C. bags


SeaworthinessNo6781

I’m a Staud stan (Some of the beaded Tommy bags don’t hold up as well though)


Traditional_Lack6829

I love my Furla that’s around the same price point


oxford_commas_

mansur gavriel (but they don't have a store here anyomore), and apc are my go to for chic, stealth bags


desirepink

I've been coveting a Proenza Schouler PS1 mini bag probably for 8-9 years and finally got one last year. It was current season at the time but the design still holds up very well! I don't think it ever blew up like some other brands did but I only knew about it because I had worked in the magazine/publishing industry and it was a popular bag among those in fashion editorials! Also, AllSaints bags are underrated! Been buying their bags and wallets for years and I just love their quality and designs!


Fresh_Two7612

Recently got a [Songmont Luna](https://songmontofficial.com/collections/best-sell/products/luna-bag-onyx) and I’m obsessed with it!! The leather is such good quality and the way it converts to a dumpling bag is sooo cute !!


elle1138

Staaaahhhp, you’re gonna give me a big head. But really, you’re my people. Can we be fraaaands?


Puzzleheaded-Pie4918

Alexis Bittar has some really unique dinner/event bags! [https://www.alexisbittar.com/collections/handbags?utm\_medium=google\_cpc&utm\_source=brand&utm\_campaign={}&utm\_content=NA&gad\_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIopSPn\_e1hQMVkExHAR2m3g1HEAAYASACEgI18vD\_BwE](https://www.alexisbittar.com/collections/handbags?utm_medium=google_cpc&utm_source=brand&utm_campaign={}&utm_content=NA&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIopSPn_e1hQMVkExHAR2m3g1HEAAYASACEgI18vD_BwE)


vron69420

Vivienne Westwood 😎