From crossbody to clutch, micro to oversized, it’s impossible to resist the allure of a new season handbag. And while it may be tempting to indulge in the day’s biggest trends as you select your latest piece of arm candy, worthy investments are all about playing the long game. And, as these designer handbags under £500 show, that doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.
You’ll never regret choosing classic shades and shapes. It’s hard to go wrong browsing through the edit at Net-A-Porter, where both emerging names and established, well-known brands contribute to a range of beautiful handbags under £500. Key players include the recently launched Clio Peppiatt, as well as Anya Hindmarch, Jacquemus, Isabel Marant, Dragon Diffusion, Staud and Loeffler Randall. Best-sellers on the site this year include Loewe’s summer-ready leather-trimmed raffia tote, Saint Laurent’s Uptown pouch, the Cult Gaia Hera Nano crystal-embellished shoulder bag and Dragon Diffusion’s Nantucket woven leather tote. Something for everyone, then.
Cassie Smart, Head of Womenswear at Matches Fashion, advises investing in a more understated, subtle design that “doesn’t feel trend-driven” so you can wear it season after season. “Versatility and longevity are key when picking out an investment handbag,” she says. “Demellier’s Tokyo and Vancouver, Hereu’s large leather tote, and A.P.C’s iconic Half Moon crossbody are all such great investment pieces that will never go out of style.”
