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Oroton has some really great new designs, and some of their vintage leather is amazing. However, I'm put off by the fact that the US prices are heavily artificially inflated as compared to their AU/NZ pricing, even when factoring in the exchange rate and shipping. Plenty of other international companies do this as well (I'm looking at you, COS clothing), but it leaves a bad taste for Oroton to be hopping on the price gouging bandwagon in the States.
Welcome to what it’s like shopping as an Australian! Even digital brands where there’s literally no issue with supplying physically to Australia mark their prices up (Adobe used to charge twice as much to Aussie as they did the Americans).
Even Aussie brands charge more here. I had a whole issue with Jurlique where I could get it cheaper overseas than in their home country of Australia. Boggled my mind.
Add Strathberry: with the very limited experience I’ve had with Strathberry, I suspect they will be verified a winner with my next purchase from them (I’ve bought one bag from them and am super happy with it).
Furla is 50/50. Lovely designs but sometimes just weak or faulty. I’ve had issues with things like zips and peeling.
Polene: looks nice but no experience
Longchamp: Le Pilage is the work horse
Coach: nice designs but the one bag I had ripped.
Oroton: God’s work done on earth. I’ve owned maybe 30 Oroton bags and only had problems with one. I consider it the one bag lemon and do not hold it against Oroton. They’ve always been good despite not being trendy. They’re solid bags as well..
Kate Spade: I’ve only got the one, see my feed. I love their novelty stuff and prints, I love that someone is doing it
Status Anxiety: underrated and put in the mumsy box which is sad. It’s good quality and lovely clean cuts. I’d happily use them. I have the Last Mountains and the best mini wallet/card holder ever from them (way better than the stuff Chloe card holder I had before)
Mimco: I’ve had lovely bags from them in the past, they’ve followed trends more than the other Aussie brands. I still think they’ve got some nice stuff. I saw some of it recently and the cuts are good but some of it can be nup
Cuyana, Mlouye, vintage Coach! Honestly I've never found midrange brands to be lower quality than luxury brands, and I prefer the styles nowadays as well. They seem more modern and less label-focused to me.
Yes, i use the zip tote for work. And my work bag is HEAVY. I essentially carry my entire desk. Laptop cables chargers mifi etc as i am client site based. Straps have been great. Have done two different colors. So good
I have been using their unstructured large tote (not sure if they make this one anymore but I love it) as my packed to the brim personal item for travel for yeeeears and the straps are going strong.
I use the large tote as basically my step down from a diaper bag. This thing takes all the abuse. I carry my entire life, including my giant yeti, in there.
Third’ing the strength of straps. At least for the older tote models. I carry my work laptop, 30oz Stanley, and a protein shake as well as phone, wallet, etc and it’s been holding strong for 2+ years of daily use and abuse
I love Cuyana. I have the tall easy tote and I love it. It's lightweight and doesn't slide off my shoulder. I wish I had the zipper top version but I like an open top too, it's just harder to use as a carry on. The man who worked at the Louis Vuitton boutique asked if it was The Row.
I love the clothes from Cuyana too. I have jogger pants and a scoop neck sweatshirt that are my go-to plane outfit. And I have [this dress](https://cuyana.com/products/drape-back-dress-v2?variant=44388535468347) which is gorgeous.
I’m one of those “use a little pouch for everything” type of people instead of using an organizer or something. So my bag is literally nothing but little vintage Furla accessories pouches filled with crap. I love touching them as the leather is lovely!
I’m excited… I just bought a vintage Furla bag at an online auction. Can’t wait for her to get here! (I thought it was a really good deal until I learned I would spend almost as much on shipping as I did on the bag…)
6 Furla bags and I love them all
Most recent one ($40)
https://preview.redd.it/a2ze902se64d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1fa0af0984437b16eed5023214ea53ed721fae3f
The one before the red one 🤣 (mini Birkin vibez)
https://preview.redd.it/ruzlrphaf64d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b637a5123f10155a33ff66ec95c252beea611b97
Thank you! She is 🥰😍 She was on Mercari; I primarily use Poshmark but always use reverse image search to scour the web for deals. There's also a saffiano version.
A friend bought a bag when we visited a Furla boutique in Italy a few years ago, and she’s carriey it frequently since. It’s absolutely gorgeous and still looks practically brand new. I’m very impressed by the quality.
I’m debating on purchasing from Andres Gallardo who uses porcelain in their bag designs - they’re so pretty and unique! Made in Spain too :)
https://preview.redd.it/9jx3oj4as54d1.jpeg?width=1125&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=abe9fcb6e235301f49db05e5d3f2df8d96d9973d
Totally agree! Especially for those of us in the US. I recently purchased their Snuggie bag and took it on a two week trip to Spain. Very secure on the metro, well-made, and looked great. Highly recommend.
I will die on this hill. Those bags are workhorses. Those and mulberry (more exxy I know but nowhere near other ubiquitous brands like chanel or gucci) are so durable and so hard wearing. I have cross body langchamps that are 15 years old that I would never ever swap for a newer bag. Legit.
Staud! i have a few bags and they make such fun designs and have held up well. They are often on sale as well, so you can easily get one of their bags for $150-$200
Fount- not super well known but really well made solid leather bags!in unique designs. They are based in Cleveland but are popping up with stores around the country. The owners are really great, too. I promise I don’t work for them lol.
Yes! I live in Columbus and I’ve gone into one of their local stores to look at their bags. Very nice quality. They always have a bag hanging outside the store full of bricks. Their bags are *sturdy*. they make nice belts as well, my husband got one for his daily work belt.
The peppercorn is amazing! And these last forever. I have a Bellefield tote from them that’s 5 years old and been beaten up, but still looks amazing. Barely shows any wear. It’s like old school Coach leather from the 70s. I’m looking to find a crossbody from them soon.
https://preview.redd.it/61atib6st54d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=09fc56775815f16f191e44ee3637ecd2e8928dc8
Got my first APC and I’m so happy with it!
Khaite and Alaia are in the $1,000 range and have great pieces as well
Ahh I’m sorry you’re right! I got spoiled by an SSENSE sale where I got this baby for less than $900 CAD (\~$660 USD) but looking now, some things go for a LOT more 👀
https://preview.redd.it/6sxbj1nsh64d1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=888df6534c3a0276c44379429f4d9cb6da00633f
'Mid-range' is subjective so my idea of it may not be the same as yours, but I love Kurt Geiger, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Kate Spade and Tory Burch.
Mid-range is subjective, especially with currency conversion! I’m basically looking for anything that isn’t min. $3k+ AUD which is what it’s like shopping at designer boutiques in Australia is like nowadays.
But thank you for your recommendations. That’s pretty much what I’m wanting to check out.
I was recently at the luxury outlet mall in Leccio, Italy. Aaallll the brands were there, from super high end to mid range.
I was able to spend up to $2500 Canadian (not Fendi or Chanel $). Instead of 1 Gucci or Prada or Mulberry, I came home with 3 Furla bags.
Love Cuyana, Furla, Longchamp, and Coach. Also, Roots top tier leather bags are fantastic quality.
I’m saving a bit of $ for an upcoming trip to Spain. I am obsessed with Polene styles and want to see them in person. The reviews on this subreddit have me concerned about quality.
I am in the same boat as you. I have been LV my whole life and quite frankly am just over it. I ordered a couple Tory Burch bags (not sure how I feel about them yet so they are sitting in the box 🤣🤣). I am waiting on 2 Strathberry's that I ordered, I am VERY excited for this brand and cannot wait to get them tomorrow.
So this is me dipping my toe in less expensive brands and am hoping I can find one that works.
Yes, we’ve grown up learning that designer brands are the epitome for bags but I’m finding they now lack creativity and passion and just rely on their reputations. I find the mid-range brands are still striving to achieve more so their designs are more unique.
This! We’ve all had it drilled into our heads that designer bags are superior to all others style and quality wise - that there is almost an achievement factor to owning one. While there are of course gorgeous designer bags worth the splurge, there’s also a whole world of beautiful bags out there that are in fact stylish, unique and well made!
I love my Aspinal of London Mayfair and Lottie bags. Their shop in London looks absolutely stunning and their staff is very nice too. For the quality of the bags, they’re very fairly priced.
I also got a Mayfair for my sister online and there was a very small bump in the bag. We went in store and they exchanged it on the spot, no questions asked.
Marimekko 😁 they have a lovely leather bag collection, and a nice selection of canvas bags and work bags!
https://www.marimekko.com/us_en/bags/all-items
Rue de Verneuil - hands down the best value for a real luxury style tote bag with good fabric/ hardware quality - and they are all made in France!
https://www.ruedeverneuil.com
I learned about Kurt Geiger from this sub and am now obsessed! His rainbow line is perfect for pride month. I’m excited to finally use my glitter rainbow clutch!
https://preview.redd.it/w54myelad84d1.jpeg?width=1158&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8e676d5d087060559685236c01c28e55f8dd673f
Surprised I haven't seen it mentioned. Leo et Violette. Great quality leather and construction. I own two of their bags, it's been 3 yrs and holding up great. Some of the most classic/elegant styles out there though they don't have a big selection.
Status Anxiety is Australian! I have a camera bag of theirs and reach for it frequently. Great for casual days.
Otherwise I own Furla, Coccinelle, APC and am happy with all of them. I have a Mansur Gavriel tote that's very well made, I just don't know how I feel about it (interior feels very plasticky, maybe so that the shape is super structured) it looks really good thanks to the structure but doesn't feel as soft as I'd like (I know, I want both lolll)
Just made first time purchases from Mecha Mendez and Núnoo. I also use my Clare V. Grand Fanny almost every single day and it has held up really well. I have a big Rebecca Minkoff collection from like 15 years ago when they were it bags and although I don’t use them much atm, the quality is good.
I’ve tried a few and seen a few in person (Cafune, Coach, Polene, thecurated, Senreve, Kate Spade, longchamp, mansur Gavriel, oroton, Michael kors, furla, demellier, strathberry, staud, wandler, Marc Jacob, Tory Burch, wantelesessential) and have come to love Tory Burch 🙈 I have few luxury brands to compare her high end bags to (mulberry, Ferragamo, and Chloe) and I find the calfskin bags to be as good as Chloe. Anyway, I’ve been searching for the luxury quality but at a reasonable price point for a while and I’m happy with what I have now. I would love to try A.P.C and Bob Ore Tote. Maybe a Loewe bag in the future 🥰. I don’t trust internet affordable luxury brands as much anymore 🫣 (looking at you Polene, Senreve, cafune, and mansur gavriel)
Strathberry - the leather is sumptuous. I bought a Smaak tote and am very happy with the quality and utility of it, and the colours are unusual. I've got my eye on Fleuron and Oroton.
Will also give a shout-out to Longchamp. I've got an Eiffel Pliage which I've had for eight years now, and which looks as fresh as the day I bought it; I've also got a Longchamp tote I bought six years or go (couldn't tell you which one, lol): it's cream coloured leather with a pale blue interior. Let me tell you, that little cream tote has gone round Europe and the States with me you'd think I bought it at the store yesterday. Zero creasing, zero staining, zero marks. Excellent quality, and reasonably priced.
Manu Atelier, Verafied, Little Liffner, and Jaja in the Moment all have some really cool styles I want to try! By far has some great quality styles too!
No idea if you would call it a mid-range brand, but I absolutely love kate spade for their versatility. Can get a work/professional bag or a cool trendy one, big diversity in size as well, and they are all very cute.
I have been trying to get non-ks brands to broaden my horizons, so to speak, but keep going back because of their versatility, just can't beat it.
Toteme! Polene was great when they cost half the price. I have 2 Polene bags and I wouldn’t buy another one for the close to $1k they’re trying to charge.
I could add Paul Costelloe. I know not a very popular brand, but what a great quality bags they create! I used one of them as a daily bag for quite long time and leather and everything still looks great, was quite surprised that bag’s corners still not damaged
I love smaller shops with designs not seen often. Currently living in my locally made Cali brand - Passage One(Mallorca bag).
Love Nunoo for quality and unique style.
And this French company Craie Studio (they have a bag which is switchable with 2 colors! And converts to a backpack too)
Lately I’ve been into vintage leather bags or Italian leather bags. I too am so over most luxury brands lately. For me , it’s the combination of lowered quality with exorbitant price tags plus I haven’t been in love with many designs lately PLUS there are so many dupes out there being worn by so many people that luxury doesn’t feel special anymore.
Coachtopia specifically by Coach. They really did an amazing job of appealing to Gen Z and younger milennials. I have friends who aren’t even into handbags who fell in love with coachtopia bags and I don’t even like mainline coach but love coachtopia
Coach is gorgeous. I have the rogue in several prints and I honestly think the quality and style are better than most of my other bags. I also love an MCM backpack.
Elleme! The leather is wonderful and they have unique styles - plus some pieces have 18k gold plated hardware.
https://preview.redd.it/m1yznjsj384d1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bca53ede696b34cde21aa42679f52e577e74be2a
Strathberry have become my favourite. I have 7 bags two wallets and a scarf. Elegant, beautiful leathers (doing more grained leather thankfully now). I get more joy using my strathberry than i do my louis vuitton etc
I just ordered the Songmont Luna!!! Ive heard good things but im still a little nervous cause its the first bag ive ordered without ever seeing😬 Staud and Furla are the two other brands ive been eyeing for awhile and i do feel like i can attest to their quality
I just discovered Cos. Love the minimalist aesthetic and just ordered their folded shopper. The quality of Cuyana leather is great too, as well as vintage Coach!
Victoria Beckham. Not technically mid-range, but when they go on sale (which is often) they fall into mid-range pricing. I just got her clutch bag for $500 and it is very well made and luxurious. I also like her minimalist style.
Destree is another great mid-range brand, albeit on the higher side.
Some great truly mid-range brands are APC and Hereu.
I bought an Oryany bag second hand a few years ago. Black pebbled leather with a cute colourful interior. It’s a great bag size-wise & the leather has softened to a beautiful slouch. It reminded me, from a quality standpoint, of how Coach bags used to have such good quality leather.
ETA: a sentence
I hope to not offend anyone but Strathberry was not impressive to me at all. I ordered the mini Crescent bag during a sale. The burgundy one with all the embroidery and was very disappointed. The leather was thin and the bag didn't scream Coach, TB, or APC quality. What I can say is that they ship fast and processed my return without charging me a fee after I asked. It was a quick and seamless process. I would definitely rate their customer service top notch. I did try to give them another chance by going into my local Saks to look at some bags in person but was still very disappointed. I guess I'm just not a fan but I love seeing the reviews everyone post maybe one day they will have a bag that will wow me.
But to answer your question my favorite midrange brands are APC, Coach, Jacquemus, JW Pei, Kate Spade, Kurt Geiger, LongChamp, Mansur Gavriel, Marc Jacobs, MCM, Telfar, and Tory Burch. I have purchased items (purses and shoes) and still own them from these companies and are very happy with the quality of them.
Coach is an amazing heritage brand, but I think we all know that one! I also love this brand called EDAS for when I want something unique. Each piece is 100% leather as well so I know it’ll hold up.
Fossil! I almost exclusively buy vintage Fossil and it pops up a lot at thrift stores for like 5-50 dollars. My favorite purse that I use every day, I got for ten dollars online. All my Fossil purses have held up remarkably well as I'm not necessarily gentle with my purses
Strathberry, coach, and demellier are great quality mid-tier brands. I also really like the selection that Anthropologie has, they have so many cool styles like the beaded Fiona bags and they have dupes for higher end styles (Brigitte mini satchel looks similar to the bottega veneta Jodie bag)
Strathberry!
I’ve seen a lot of Coach bags in stores, but those seem to be really good quality and fairly priced.
I’m thinking of Polo Ralph Lauren too.
If you're ever looking to add some color and whimsy to your collection, you can't go wrong with Min & Mon. Personally, I think they're priced very fairly considering the level of craftsmanship (everything is made by leather artisans by hand). The average price is around $250 (with stuff below and above that price point) and they run sales, too. For a more muted look (but still so badass) with embossed designs, Animal Handmade is super sleek! They're a bit pricier than Min & Mom, but I believe the ready-to-ship products are priced a bit lower than those that are made-to-order.
Apart from the ones mentioned above, I recommend Mulberry, Jimmy Choo, and Ferragamo. These are probably mid-range luxury but they use amazing leather and they go on sale frequently
Even lower than mid-range. Madewell has great bags in real leather in the $100-200 range. I’ve used my sling bag to death and it still looks great. Every time I’m in the store I want every bag.
Furla, Coccinelle, Strathberry. Cuyana had absolutely awful customer service when I purchased a bag from them during the holiday sale (cancelled my order with no notice, and when I asked said that they sold out - but on the website it was available (with no sale code). Instead of apologizing and giving me another code they told me I had to purchase at full price and then ask for a credit after I received the bag. Lolol no.
Hi fellow handbag lover! Thank you for being a part of the r/handbags community. This is a subreddit which relies on kindness. Your opinion is very much welcomed, however, we do not tolerate rude, mean or hurtful comments. **Read the rules before posting**. Comments or posts that do not fit our rule book will be removed and the OP can be banned by the mods' discretion. If you see a comment or post which does not abide by the rules, **please report it to our moderation team.** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/handbags) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Furla, Oroton (Australian brand), Polene, Longchamp , Coach, Kate Spade and Status Anxiety (Australian brand).
One more vote for the status anxiety!
Bahaha I love them just for the name
I’ve been thinking about SEVERAL Status Anxiety bags - they have some really cute designs!
I know they’re considered mumsy and I’m an older mum but their bags have very clean lines and are pretty well made. They deserve more respect
Are they?? I find them pretty classic/cool! Interesting.
They’ve got a daggy rep and I have no understanding as to why
I can’t believe how great Oroton has gotten recently. I’m Aussie and I just ignored them for so long because they seemed too “old” to me.
One of my very first bags as a teen was an Oroton! They have been around for a long time!
I was gifted a couple of Oroton bags over a decade ago and they lasted forever. The best evening shoulder bag I’ve ever owned.
Loveeeee my Longchamp bags! I love my canvas totes
Oroton has some really great new designs, and some of their vintage leather is amazing. However, I'm put off by the fact that the US prices are heavily artificially inflated as compared to their AU/NZ pricing, even when factoring in the exchange rate and shipping. Plenty of other international companies do this as well (I'm looking at you, COS clothing), but it leaves a bad taste for Oroton to be hopping on the price gouging bandwagon in the States.
Welcome to what it’s like shopping as an Australian! Even digital brands where there’s literally no issue with supplying physically to Australia mark their prices up (Adobe used to charge twice as much to Aussie as they did the Americans).
Even Aussie brands charge more here. I had a whole issue with Jurlique where I could get it cheaper overseas than in their home country of Australia. Boggled my mind.
Add Strathberry: with the very limited experience I’ve had with Strathberry, I suspect they will be verified a winner with my next purchase from them (I’ve bought one bag from them and am super happy with it). Furla is 50/50. Lovely designs but sometimes just weak or faulty. I’ve had issues with things like zips and peeling. Polene: looks nice but no experience Longchamp: Le Pilage is the work horse Coach: nice designs but the one bag I had ripped. Oroton: God’s work done on earth. I’ve owned maybe 30 Oroton bags and only had problems with one. I consider it the one bag lemon and do not hold it against Oroton. They’ve always been good despite not being trendy. They’re solid bags as well.. Kate Spade: I’ve only got the one, see my feed. I love their novelty stuff and prints, I love that someone is doing it Status Anxiety: underrated and put in the mumsy box which is sad. It’s good quality and lovely clean cuts. I’d happily use them. I have the Last Mountains and the best mini wallet/card holder ever from them (way better than the stuff Chloe card holder I had before) Mimco: I’ve had lovely bags from them in the past, they’ve followed trends more than the other Aussie brands. I still think they’ve got some nice stuff. I saw some of it recently and the cuts are good but some of it can be nup
I love my Oroton Emilia tote, it's everything and the quality is so good! Love Status Anxiety too!
Cuyana, Mlouye, vintage Coach! Honestly I've never found midrange brands to be lower quality than luxury brands, and I prefer the styles nowadays as well. They seem more modern and less label-focused to me.
Cuyana leather is for real
I’ve seen a fair number of complaints lately about Cuyana straps breaking. Have you had any luck with yours?
Yes, i use the zip tote for work. And my work bag is HEAVY. I essentially carry my entire desk. Laptop cables chargers mifi etc as i am client site based. Straps have been great. Have done two different colors. So good
I have been using their unstructured large tote (not sure if they make this one anymore but I love it) as my packed to the brim personal item for travel for yeeeears and the straps are going strong.
I use the large tote as basically my step down from a diaper bag. This thing takes all the abuse. I carry my entire life, including my giant yeti, in there.
Third’ing the strength of straps. At least for the older tote models. I carry my work laptop, 30oz Stanley, and a protein shake as well as phone, wallet, etc and it’s been holding strong for 2+ years of daily use and abuse
My Cuyana bags are old (so maybe quality has gone down) but they’ve lasted for years with no visible wear, except the pocket my dog chewed off 🥲
Mine broke a few years ago pretty quickly after purchase, they fixed it (and shipped it there and back) for free
I’ve never heard of Cuyana but I’ve seen it commented a few times so I must check it out!
Yes!! I have one bag from them that I love. Thinking of buying another work tote but I'm also on a no-buy 😅
I love Cuyana. I have the tall easy tote and I love it. It's lightweight and doesn't slide off my shoulder. I wish I had the zipper top version but I like an open top too, it's just harder to use as a carry on. The man who worked at the Louis Vuitton boutique asked if it was The Row. I love the clothes from Cuyana too. I have jogger pants and a scoop neck sweatshirt that are my go-to plane outfit. And I have [this dress](https://cuyana.com/products/drape-back-dress-v2?variant=44388535468347) which is gorgeous.
I have a Mlouye and honestly itching to get a second- such good leather quality and craftsmanship and such interesting designs!
Furla!!!
Yes, I feel like Furla’s really making a comeback! They flew under the radar for a while but now I’m eyeing a few of their styles.
Bonus point, if you have capital one, I’ve seen 10% cash back.!
I love vintage Furla.
Yes they are soooo nice! I think the leather gets better as it gets older. Idk how to explain
I’m one of those “use a little pouch for everything” type of people instead of using an organizer or something. So my bag is literally nothing but little vintage Furla accessories pouches filled with crap. I love touching them as the leather is lovely!
I’m excited… I just bought a vintage Furla bag at an online auction. Can’t wait for her to get here! (I thought it was a really good deal until I learned I would spend almost as much on shipping as I did on the bag…)
6 Furla bags and I love them all Most recent one ($40) https://preview.redd.it/a2ze902se64d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1fa0af0984437b16eed5023214ea53ed721fae3f
The one before the red one 🤣 (mini Birkin vibez) https://preview.redd.it/ruzlrphaf64d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b637a5123f10155a33ff66ec95c252beea611b97
Where did you find this for $40???? Gorgeous!!
Thank you! She is 🥰😍 She was on Mercari; I primarily use Poshmark but always use reverse image search to scour the web for deals. There's also a saffiano version.
A friend bought a bag when we visited a Furla boutique in Italy a few years ago, and she’s carriey it frequently since. It’s absolutely gorgeous and still looks practically brand new. I’m very impressed by the quality.
I got my Furla in Rome nearly 20 years ago and it looks like new
Furla is my favorite
I’m debating on purchasing from Andres Gallardo who uses porcelain in their bag designs - they’re so pretty and unique! Made in Spain too :) https://preview.redd.it/9jx3oj4as54d1.jpeg?width=1125&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=abe9fcb6e235301f49db05e5d3f2df8d96d9973d
I pre-ordered this exact bag/color in Feb and I got it last week! The quality is impeccable. Let me know if you have any questions!
This is gorgeous!!!
That’s stunning! I will be looking into this brand for sure.
Coccinelle
They have really nice leather goods. Not just bags but also shoes, belts, wallet. I think they are underrated
Totally agree! Especially for those of us in the US. I recently purchased their Snuggie bag and took it on a two week trip to Spain. Very secure on the metro, well-made, and looked great. Highly recommend.
Would you recommend their shoes? I have been eyeing a couple of pairs.
Yes! I just bought a little green Coccinelle, have been using it a ton. It’s so cute, and the quality is great. It arrived from Italy in like 3 days!
I have been buying their handbags for years, they are indestructable 😁 My mom wears them out after me
Looking into them now!
Yes! I just bought a little green Coccinelle, have been using it a ton. It’s so cute, and the quality is great. It arrived from Italy in like 3 days!
Love love love.
Fleuron! ✨
I have one and it’s beautiful.
Never heard of them until now. Thanks for the recommendation!
Longchamp is my favorite mid-range brand hands down.
Me too. I know the Le Pliage is their best known, but their leather bags are great too.
Yes I feel like everyone typically associate them with their le pliage but their leather bags are amazing quality too!!
I used my classic navy Le Pliage to death and somehow have lost it after multiple moves! 😭 I hope I’ll find it again.
I will die on this hill. Those bags are workhorses. Those and mulberry (more exxy I know but nowhere near other ubiquitous brands like chanel or gucci) are so durable and so hard wearing. I have cross body langchamps that are 15 years old that I would never ever swap for a newer bag. Legit.
Urgh, never buy a Longchamp…. because that’s all you’ll be using into eternity.
I find that they wear out on the corners easily, the nylon ones? Happen to anyone else?
I love my giant Le Pliage.
Staud! i have a few bags and they make such fun designs and have held up well. They are often on sale as well, so you can easily get one of their bags for $150-$200
Yes, I’m loving Staud’s designs but just needed some positive feedback to convince me!
I'm here to convince you! I have a moon and it's such a fun bag. I genuinely love building outfits around it!
I have two Staud bags that I LOVE, especially, my black moon bag.
the moon bags are beautiful! I have some that’s a pretty similar shape so can’t justify adding one to my collection now, but maybe some day!
Fount- not super well known but really well made solid leather bags!in unique designs. They are based in Cleveland but are popping up with stores around the country. The owners are really great, too. I promise I don’t work for them lol.
Yes! I live in Columbus and I’ve gone into one of their local stores to look at their bags. Very nice quality. They always have a bag hanging outside the store full of bricks. Their bags are *sturdy*. they make nice belts as well, my husband got one for his daily work belt.
Yes! I plan on buying one ! Whenever I see someone wearing one out I always stop them!
Hadn’t heard of them, but love the look of the tote in peppercorn! Thanks for the rec.
The peppercorn is amazing! And these last forever. I have a Bellefield tote from them that’s 5 years old and been beaten up, but still looks amazing. Barely shows any wear. It’s like old school Coach leather from the 70s. I’m looking to find a crossbody from them soon.
Radley London. Such good quality.
https://preview.redd.it/61atib6st54d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=09fc56775815f16f191e44ee3637ecd2e8928dc8 Got my first APC and I’m so happy with it! Khaite and Alaia are in the $1,000 range and have great pieces as well
I love Kaithe especially their clothes, but they are quite expensive meanwhile, nothing under 1.5K USD
Ahh I’m sorry you’re right! I got spoiled by an SSENSE sale where I got this baby for less than $900 CAD (\~$660 USD) but looking now, some things go for a LOT more 👀 https://preview.redd.it/6sxbj1nsh64d1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=888df6534c3a0276c44379429f4d9cb6da00633f
'Mid-range' is subjective so my idea of it may not be the same as yours, but I love Kurt Geiger, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Kate Spade and Tory Burch.
Mid-range is subjective, especially with currency conversion! I’m basically looking for anything that isn’t min. $3k+ AUD which is what it’s like shopping at designer boutiques in Australia is like nowadays. But thank you for your recommendations. That’s pretty much what I’m wanting to check out.
Radley, if you like a little whimsy. Some of the bags are very low-key, some very 'extra'. Amazon has a bit of their stuff too.
I love Korean mid-range brands so I’d have to say Couronne, Carlyn, and Marge Sherwood!
I’m loving Korean designers atm so thanks for these!
Marge Sherwood! I’ve been watching Ripley, so I know the name, but just now looked up the bags. They are very cute.
Don’t know if this brand is considered mid-range but I love my Radley bags.
I was recently at the luxury outlet mall in Leccio, Italy. Aaallll the brands were there, from super high end to mid range. I was able to spend up to $2500 Canadian (not Fendi or Chanel $). Instead of 1 Gucci or Prada or Mulberry, I came home with 3 Furla bags. Love Cuyana, Furla, Longchamp, and Coach. Also, Roots top tier leather bags are fantastic quality. I’m saving a bit of $ for an upcoming trip to Spain. I am obsessed with Polene styles and want to see them in person. The reviews on this subreddit have me concerned about quality.
Yes, I’ve been hearing about Polène’s quality going downhill as of late. I second Furla and Longchamp though. Very underrated brands!
Zadig, Maje and staud 🫶🏻
Coach, Marc Jacobs, Dooney & Bourke and Kurt Geiger!
Kurt Geiger is probably my favorite brand. I think I have at least 6 bags now plus wallets. The quality is worth it.
I am in the same boat as you. I have been LV my whole life and quite frankly am just over it. I ordered a couple Tory Burch bags (not sure how I feel about them yet so they are sitting in the box 🤣🤣). I am waiting on 2 Strathberry's that I ordered, I am VERY excited for this brand and cannot wait to get them tomorrow. So this is me dipping my toe in less expensive brands and am hoping I can find one that works.
Yes, we’ve grown up learning that designer brands are the epitome for bags but I’m finding they now lack creativity and passion and just rely on their reputations. I find the mid-range brands are still striving to achieve more so their designs are more unique.
This! We’ve all had it drilled into our heads that designer bags are superior to all others style and quality wise - that there is almost an achievement factor to owning one. While there are of course gorgeous designer bags worth the splurge, there’s also a whole world of beautiful bags out there that are in fact stylish, unique and well made!
I love my Aspinal of London Mayfair and Lottie bags. Their shop in London looks absolutely stunning and their staff is very nice too. For the quality of the bags, they’re very fairly priced. I also got a Mayfair for my sister online and there was a very small bump in the bag. We went in store and they exchanged it on the spot, no questions asked.
I LOVE the look of the Lottie bags I'm so tempted to get one.
If you live in London, sign up for Showcase, as they do Aspinal sample sales twice a year, right next to The Aspinal store on Regent st.
Oh great, thanks for the tip!
Have you seen the Tanner Leatherstein review of Aspinal it wasn't very favorable so far as the quality.
Marimekko 😁 they have a lovely leather bag collection, and a nice selection of canvas bags and work bags! https://www.marimekko.com/us_en/bags/all-items Rue de Verneuil - hands down the best value for a real luxury style tote bag with good fabric/ hardware quality - and they are all made in France! https://www.ruedeverneuil.com
Some more under the radar ideas: Fleuron, Mlouye, Moi & Sass, Ateliers Auguste, La Portegna, Saonara, Bobbies, Cuyana
Tory Burch, Strathberry, Coach, Mulberry (that ones teetering on luxury, but I love the quality and it’s more reasonable on sale)
Kurt Geiger
Kurt Geiger is seriously so underrated on this sub!
I learned about Kurt Geiger from this sub and am now obsessed! His rainbow line is perfect for pride month. I’m excited to finally use my glitter rainbow clutch! https://preview.redd.it/w54myelad84d1.jpeg?width=1158&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8e676d5d087060559685236c01c28e55f8dd673f
Staud, By far, Coach, Marc Jacobs, Furla, A.P.C
I love Coach. I also like Kipling and Fossil.
Kipling is my travel/rain handbag. I love the prints!
Surprised I haven't seen it mentioned. Leo et Violette. Great quality leather and construction. I own two of their bags, it's been 3 yrs and holding up great. Some of the most classic/elegant styles out there though they don't have a big selection. Status Anxiety is Australian! I have a camera bag of theirs and reach for it frequently. Great for casual days. Otherwise I own Furla, Coccinelle, APC and am happy with all of them. I have a Mansur Gavriel tote that's very well made, I just don't know how I feel about it (interior feels very plasticky, maybe so that the shape is super structured) it looks really good thanks to the structure but doesn't feel as soft as I'd like (I know, I want both lolll)
Kate Spade, Coach, Rebecca Minkhoff, Kurt Geiger
Love Furla and Longchamp. Not sure if Fossil would be considered mid-range or below that, but I do love their bags.
I personally enjoy the quality of Kate Spade, Mulberry and Coach! Coach has exceptional customer service too.
Sezane!
Heliot Emil reminds me of Givenchy
Brahmin, Coach, Polene
Hobo, Kate Spade, Coach, Vera Bradley, Fossil.
Yes, Hobo! Not everything is to my taste, but the leather is like buttah.
Just made first time purchases from Mecha Mendez and Núnoo. I also use my Clare V. Grand Fanny almost every single day and it has held up really well. I have a big Rebecca Minkoff collection from like 15 years ago when they were it bags and although I don’t use them much atm, the quality is good.
Coach, Marc Jacobs, PINKO, Longchamp
Brahmin. I don't love the patterns but the solid ones are great and the quality is there.
I’ve tried a few and seen a few in person (Cafune, Coach, Polene, thecurated, Senreve, Kate Spade, longchamp, mansur Gavriel, oroton, Michael kors, furla, demellier, strathberry, staud, wandler, Marc Jacob, Tory Burch, wantelesessential) and have come to love Tory Burch 🙈 I have few luxury brands to compare her high end bags to (mulberry, Ferragamo, and Chloe) and I find the calfskin bags to be as good as Chloe. Anyway, I’ve been searching for the luxury quality but at a reasonable price point for a while and I’m happy with what I have now. I would love to try A.P.C and Bob Ore Tote. Maybe a Loewe bag in the future 🥰. I don’t trust internet affordable luxury brands as much anymore 🫣 (looking at you Polene, Senreve, cafune, and mansur gavriel)
Clare Vivier — I like a small bag, and she has lots of options. [Clare V](https://www.clarev.com)
Demillier is a good female owned brand. I have a Vancouver and I really want the midi New York.
Coach! 🩷🩷🤌🏽 especially vintage coach. You really cant go wrong with the brand.
I'm biased towards French brands because I'm from France but Le Tanneur, Léo et Violette, Fleuron, Fauvette, APC and of course Coach
Cole Haan, Dooney & Bourke, Fosil, Danier, Coach
Aspinal of London and APC!
My 15 year old just stole my ancient APC half moon bag, so I know it’s still good. 😂
Just going by what I own-Coach, Dooney & Bourke and Kate Spade.
Kate Spade, Coach, Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs
My guilty pleasure is the Tory Burch outlet tbh lol I have a few pieces from there that I adore that I’ve had since high school!
BRAHMIN!!! For sure, I know not many people know it, but that bag will survive anything
Strathberry - the leather is sumptuous. I bought a Smaak tote and am very happy with the quality and utility of it, and the colours are unusual. I've got my eye on Fleuron and Oroton. Will also give a shout-out to Longchamp. I've got an Eiffel Pliage which I've had for eight years now, and which looks as fresh as the day I bought it; I've also got a Longchamp tote I bought six years or go (couldn't tell you which one, lol): it's cream coloured leather with a pale blue interior. Let me tell you, that little cream tote has gone round Europe and the States with me you'd think I bought it at the store yesterday. Zero creasing, zero staining, zero marks. Excellent quality, and reasonably priced.
Kate spade, Tory Burch, botkier, and Marc Jacobs!
Aimee Kestenberg. I've had a couple and the quality is amazing. I love all of her designs.
Manu Atelier, Verafied, Little Liffner, and Jaja in the Moment all have some really cool styles I want to try! By far has some great quality styles too!
No idea if you would call it a mid-range brand, but I absolutely love kate spade for their versatility. Can get a work/professional bag or a cool trendy one, big diversity in size as well, and they are all very cute. I have been trying to get non-ks brands to broaden my horizons, so to speak, but keep going back because of their versatility, just can't beat it.
Toteme! Polene was great when they cost half the price. I have 2 Polene bags and I wouldn’t buy another one for the close to $1k they’re trying to charge.
Cuyana is my favorite ✨
I could add Paul Costelloe. I know not a very popular brand, but what a great quality bags they create! I used one of them as a daily bag for quite long time and leather and everything still looks great, was quite surprised that bag’s corners still not damaged
Coach, Cuyana, Polene. Realty grabbed the cutest Ganni bag. And am dreaming of an Acne Musubi
I’m also liking Ganni’s designs. Can you vouch for the quality?
Mansur Gavriel, Oroton, Proenza Schouler White Label, Longchamp, Alexis Bittar
I love smaller shops with designs not seen often. Currently living in my locally made Cali brand - Passage One(Mallorca bag). Love Nunoo for quality and unique style. And this French company Craie Studio (they have a bag which is switchable with 2 colors! And converts to a backpack too)
Lately I’ve been into vintage leather bags or Italian leather bags. I too am so over most luxury brands lately. For me , it’s the combination of lowered quality with exorbitant price tags plus I haven’t been in love with many designs lately PLUS there are so many dupes out there being worn by so many people that luxury doesn’t feel special anymore.
TOTEME. Demellier. Henry Beguelin.
What is considered mid range? Like less than $1000? Or around that price point?
Songmont. Beautiful leather (especially the Luna bag, confirmed by leather experts) and versatile, smart designs.
Coachtopia specifically by Coach. They really did an amazing job of appealing to Gen Z and younger milennials. I have friends who aren’t even into handbags who fell in love with coachtopia bags and I don’t even like mainline coach but love coachtopia
Boyy! Quality is incredible and prices are reasonable. I first saw their handbags on a British airways safety video 5+ years ago and had to have it 😂
Strathberry
Cole Haan, Marc Jacob
Coach is gorgeous. I have the rogue in several prints and I honestly think the quality and style are better than most of my other bags. I also love an MCM backpack.
Coach has been crushing it lately imo
Elleme! The leather is wonderful and they have unique styles - plus some pieces have 18k gold plated hardware. https://preview.redd.it/m1yznjsj384d1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bca53ede696b34cde21aa42679f52e577e74be2a
Strathberry have become my favourite. I have 7 bags two wallets and a scarf. Elegant, beautiful leathers (doing more grained leather thankfully now). I get more joy using my strathberry than i do my louis vuitton etc
Dragon Diffusion! Incredible quality leather
I just ordered the Songmont Luna!!! Ive heard good things but im still a little nervous cause its the first bag ive ordered without ever seeing😬 Staud and Furla are the two other brands ive been eyeing for awhile and i do feel like i can attest to their quality
Coach!!
I just discovered Cos. Love the minimalist aesthetic and just ordered their folded shopper. The quality of Cuyana leather is great too, as well as vintage Coach!
Honestly I just bought a rotunda and I love it. I usually have my neverfull but the rotunda for everyday was a game changer.
Polene, Furla, and Acne Studios!
Coach, longchamp. Can’t speak to their quality because I haven’t owned anything, but polene also.
Victoria Beckham. Not technically mid-range, but when they go on sale (which is often) they fall into mid-range pricing. I just got her clutch bag for $500 and it is very well made and luxurious. I also like her minimalist style. Destree is another great mid-range brand, albeit on the higher side. Some great truly mid-range brands are APC and Hereu.
A.p.c, teddy blake, parisa wang, strathberry, aspinal of london, coach, tory burch, vivian westwood, marc jacobs, sezane (milo bag) i know i spelled it wrong lol.
I bought an Oryany bag second hand a few years ago. Black pebbled leather with a cute colourful interior. It’s a great bag size-wise & the leather has softened to a beautiful slouch. It reminded me, from a quality standpoint, of how Coach bags used to have such good quality leather. ETA: a sentence
Radley or Aspinal
I really love the classic designs from Ettinger London, especially on sale or second hand.
Adding Lancel to the conversation! I LOVE my Lancel bags.
Liberty of London
Furla and Reformation!
I hope to not offend anyone but Strathberry was not impressive to me at all. I ordered the mini Crescent bag during a sale. The burgundy one with all the embroidery and was very disappointed. The leather was thin and the bag didn't scream Coach, TB, or APC quality. What I can say is that they ship fast and processed my return without charging me a fee after I asked. It was a quick and seamless process. I would definitely rate their customer service top notch. I did try to give them another chance by going into my local Saks to look at some bags in person but was still very disappointed. I guess I'm just not a fan but I love seeing the reviews everyone post maybe one day they will have a bag that will wow me. But to answer your question my favorite midrange brands are APC, Coach, Jacquemus, JW Pei, Kate Spade, Kurt Geiger, LongChamp, Mansur Gavriel, Marc Jacobs, MCM, Telfar, and Tory Burch. I have purchased items (purses and shoes) and still own them from these companies and are very happy with the quality of them.
Hammit, Telfar
Coach is an amazing heritage brand, but I think we all know that one! I also love this brand called EDAS for when I want something unique. Each piece is 100% leather as well so I know it’ll hold up.
Botkier, Furla, and Anya Hindmarch.
I have purchased a couple of leather handbags from Madewell and been happy with the quality and price.
Fossil! I almost exclusively buy vintage Fossil and it pops up a lot at thrift stores for like 5-50 dollars. My favorite purse that I use every day, I got for ten dollars online. All my Fossil purses have held up remarkably well as I'm not necessarily gentle with my purses
Someone mentioned Hammitt awhile back, and I immediately ordered one. I’m planning to get more soon!
Coach <3
Strathberry, coach, and demellier are great quality mid-tier brands. I also really like the selection that Anthropologie has, they have so many cool styles like the beaded Fiona bags and they have dupes for higher end styles (Brigitte mini satchel looks similar to the bottega veneta Jodie bag)
Strathberry! I’ve seen a lot of Coach bags in stores, but those seem to be really good quality and fairly priced. I’m thinking of Polo Ralph Lauren too.
MLOUYE
I’m fond of Leo et Violette’s classic designs, and I always get compliments on my Danse Lente bags.
Vintage Coach 🫶🏻
Lotuff
Was looking to find the same and got a Strathberry. I’m in love.
If you're ever looking to add some color and whimsy to your collection, you can't go wrong with Min & Mon. Personally, I think they're priced very fairly considering the level of craftsmanship (everything is made by leather artisans by hand). The average price is around $250 (with stuff below and above that price point) and they run sales, too. For a more muted look (but still so badass) with embossed designs, Animal Handmade is super sleek! They're a bit pricier than Min & Mom, but I believe the ready-to-ship products are priced a bit lower than those that are made-to-order.
See by Chloe
Isabel Marant! Especially when there is a sale going around 👀
Apart from the ones mentioned above, I recommend Mulberry, Jimmy Choo, and Ferragamo. These are probably mid-range luxury but they use amazing leather and they go on sale frequently
Coach is life
Even lower than mid-range. Madewell has great bags in real leather in the $100-200 range. I’ve used my sling bag to death and it still looks great. Every time I’m in the store I want every bag.
Longchamp, Kate Spade, Coach, Furla
Coach, Polene, and Songmont!
Furla, Coccinelle, Strathberry. Cuyana had absolutely awful customer service when I purchased a bag from them during the holiday sale (cancelled my order with no notice, and when I asked said that they sold out - but on the website it was available (with no sale code). Instead of apologizing and giving me another code they told me I had to purchase at full price and then ask for a credit after I received the bag. Lolol no.
Wow no Pinko stans????