Handbags are hands-down my favorite accessory. As a teenager, I had a pretty mean collection of cheap, almost disposable handbags, but as I got older, I learned that quality is better than quantity. Even so, you don’t have to break the bank when shopping for a new bag!
When sorting through my wardrobe for donation items, I realized the bags I kept fit into some pretty specific categories. Read on for the 5 bags you’ve gotta have, and click the photos for deals, because you know I shop bougie on a budget!
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“The One with the Unique Shape”
Bags aren’t just for holding your phone and keys-they should give some visual interest too! A uniquely shaped bag will have everyone asking “where’d you get that purse?”. This trendy halfmoon bamboo bag is only $10 at TJ Maxx! It also comes in pink and red, so for the price, buy ’em all!
“The One with the Pop of Color”
It’s wise to keep your handbag choices neutral in color so you can match them with any outfit. But if you’re anything like me, you gravitate towards pretty colors (okay, mainly shades of pink). It’s totally okay to spoil yourself with a bag that you won’t use every day, just make sure you don’t spend an arm and a leg on it! This handbag from JCPenney could pass for designer, but will only set you back $34!
“The One with the Funky Pattern”
Great for days when you’re keeping it simple with your outfit, a patterned handbag can really make your entire look. My personal favorite pattern is faux snakeskin. Pair it with an all black ensemble for an effortless slay. For $40 you can grab this beauty from Target!
“The Carry-All Tote”
An oversized tote is an essential in your handbag arsenal. What my mama would call a “poca-book” can hold any and everything you need. Your everyday purse contents plus a laptop, planner, and even a pair of flats when you’re out in heels can fit in this baby! I added this embossed croc tote to my cart when shopping at Missguided for just $24! It’s sold out now, but check the site for a restock soon!
“The Everyday Crossbody”
A black crossbody is my everyday handbag of choice. It’s simple and timeless, and convenient when you’re on the go! I ordered this one from a Black owned boutique and I can’t wait for it to arrive so I can put into rotation! $35 is well worth the use I’ll be getting out of this bag!
That’s it! Those 5 bags should be the foundation for every woman’s handbag collection. And with selections all under $50, these suggestions will keep you bougie on a budget.
How many of these types of bags do you already own? Do you need to add some to your collection? Or maybe you have paid way too much for your bags and want to switch them out for more affordable options like the ones above! Let me know in the comments!
Fashionably (and frugally) Yours,
I’ve never been a huge fan of snakeskin patterns, but I can see how that would be a nice accent for an all black fit. I may give it a try, and add some snakeskin to my wardrobe!