Are mid range bags giving high end designer a run for their money?

For decades, luxury handbags have run the show, they have been a symbol of status and of timeless style, but this is changing.  The luxury market has changed so much the past few years and although I still absolutely love a luxury handbag, my views have changed.  I have so many on my wish list still and I am still buying them, but  I am finding myself looking and buying more mid range handbags for everyday.   I find I am not as precious about them and then I'm wearing my more expensive bags for weekends and dinners and holidays where I am dressing up more.  I also feel that I don't base my style on whether I am wearing designer pieces, it's based on how the items look and are worn together and these mid-range bags are so well made and look stylish.  If you are forcing yourself to wear designer pieces with every outfit, you can end up looking tacky.  To me these mid-range bags don't scream wealth, they whisper taste.

  I have bought a few mid range priced bags this year and I have worn them to absolute death!  I really think these brands have stepped up and their designs are so good that I don't feel like I have to buy designer anymore if I feel like I can't afford to.  I have listed 8 brands below that I am lusting over and my favourite bag from the brand.   I also don't need you to tell me I have a style, because I know! Most of these bags come in many different colours, but personally I gravitate towards chocolate brown or black as I feel they go with most items in my wardrobe all year round and I am really loving an east west bag!  If you are looking for mid range bags inspiration, then I really hope this post helps.

1) Polene

This is a french brand that has been around for a while and I wasn't that fussed on it, until they brought out this style.  This Mokki bag is such a beautiful shape and style and I love that you can crossbody it and hold it to make it more dressy.  This means it can go very easily from day to night.

2) Coach

Coach is having it's moment, it really is!  This bag specifically is going to be featured in the new Devil Wears Prada film and there are many bags from Coach that have been Viral this year and last.  It came out from nowhere, but now Coach is one of the top brands of 2025!  I love that the below bag gives east west The Row margeaux bag style and it can also be held in your hand or under the shoulder, which makes it versatile.

3) Dragon Diffusion

Now this bag is one that I did purchase this year and I absolutely love it.  The woven leather detail makes the bag have the most amazing texture and makes a plain jeans and t-shirt or very simple outfit looks cool and chic.  It's also very suitable for all year round and I think that's hard to find a bag that does Summer and Winter.

4) Freja

I only discovered this brand this year, and I love how quiet luxury it is and sophisticated. This first bag is absolutely stunning and a very affordable option if you like the Alaia bag.  I really love the shape and the style of straps and also the croc detail.   The second bag below also really reminds me of the Row bag, but again so much more affordable and just as chic for the evening.  They both come in so many different colours if you want something lighter for Summer.

5) Tory Burch

I will be honest, I have never looked at Tory Burch for bags before, but I thought I would have a look for this video and I was amazed at how many I liked.  This first suede one is so beautiful, I love the colour and the shape and it would look incredible with so many coats and blazers.  Also, this second bag is such a gorgeous colour for Autumn/Winter and I can see it going so well with Autumn colours.  It's a very similar style to lots of the bags I have liked from other brands.

6) Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren is a timeless brand and I have liked this bag for a while and not made the plunge.  I like that this bag is a little bit different from everything else that I'm looking at at the moment.  It's got the equestrian vibe and this beautiful shape to it and it can be won crossbody and hand held.  It comes in some gorgeous suede colours too.

7) JW Pei

This bag would make the perfect evening bag if you're needing something off white to go with an outfit, I have looked at it several times for a wedding coming up.  It's only £90 which I think is a bargain and it gives off Lora Piano vibes.

8) Demellier

Last but not least is this Demellier bag that has taken the world by storm and is now one of the most popular work bags. The larger size fits your laptop in and looks so chic that it's ideal for going to dinner and drinks after work.  The smaller version is the best day bag as it fits everything in but still looks super timeless.