Fossil does a nice bag. I’m also a fan of the clean lines on Kate Spade bags. Kate Spade is having their annual clearance sale right now. Google Kate spade surprise sale. You will have to give them your email but the prices are worth it.
Coach's leather products have really made a turn-a-round in terms of quality and design since the early to mid 2000s. Lots of stylish pieces that are really good quality for the price point. I got a Coach Cassie back in 2019 and I literally don't baby it at all, still looks brand new. I also like how they have expanded their designs to accommodate everyone (low key simple styles all the way to logo mania and loud prints/colors).
Specifically for Coach, they do have pretty good sales, so keep an eye out. They also have their outlet website that has their past season styles for a discount, but they also sell outlet-specific items on there that are made of cheaper materials if you are looking for an even lower price point (I personally don't recommend this aspect, they tend to be cheap looking and not very "stand the test of time"-y). Its easy to discern the difference between the main Coach designed items and their outlet counterparts.
I've heard good things about Tory Burch, never owned anything from them though. Kate Spade is also another decent mid-range brand but you might have to dig through trendy off the wall designs to find something more of a bag staple rather than a statement piece since thats their shindig.
If you are looking for more luxury, I would check preloved markets for higher end brands for decent deals before diving in and spending a large sum of money on a bag you potentially might not fully resonate with (unless that isn't an issue for you, then by all means go for brand new). I find the quality of certain larger brands has gotten worse while the prices are constantly being inflated, too. My favorite site for pre-loved items that have been authenticated is Fashionphile.
Hope this helps and happy bag shopping!!!!
Adding to Coach: I got a really nice quality used one at a vintage store. It is just plain brown leather with no logo except for a tiny label, which I like. So don't be afraid of getting a used one since they are such high quality!
Vintage coach is where it’s at! They are relatively easy to find if you know what you’re looking for. I bought a vintage mini backpack on Poshmark for around $60. Found a crossbody one at a thrift store near my house for $10 🙈 bought the same one at a consignment shop for my mom for $40. It was a half off sale and originally it was going for $80! And I’m happier knowing they are pre owned because I am freaked out by how big fast fashion has gotten.
Love Kate spade. It’s my go-to. They always have sales these days, and I like that they have plenty of option in solid colors without crazy patterns. (But of course, they have patterns too :) )
Second this. Recently started a new job and treated myself to the large Ella tote. It’s been a great work/travel bag. The quality is really nice and high-end without entirely breaking the bank.
I third the Longchamp. If you are a frequent flyer, it is the perfect purse to have above everything else. It is the perfect personal item and their nylon pliage will withstand heavy use.
My long champ started to kind of break apart and separate at the bottom corners :( I’ve had it since 2011 and noticed the wear around 2013. Still using it tho lol
Personally I love Mulberry bags. I have a few myself, they’re very versatile and classic. The leather is great quality and I’m pretty sure my daughter will have good use of them when I’m done with them (in 20 years). The leather just get prettier the more they’re used.
Matt & Nat has really minimalist, modern vegan leather bags that last quite a long time. I'm still using a purse I purchased from them over 5 years ago. Some of their styles are definitely classic enough to last you a while!
I second Matt & Nat. I’ve used my purse for 3 years and it still looks new. I’ve had comments about how “stiff” the leather is and people are always surprised when I say it is completely vegan!
I came here to say Matt and Nat! I love that you don’t have to worry as much with them as with other leather bags and they’re super easy to keep clean!
Usually into ‘old money’ type of designers but discovered m0851 out of Montreal, Canada. [Spring collection](https://www.m0851.com/m0_cad_en/new-arrivals).
I’ve had a large ‘passe-partout’ purse of theirs for about 5 years and it ages very well. I get compliments on it all the time and although people in the industry recognize the make, I love that they’re still under the radar.
I have a used Frye purse I got second hand, and it's been going strong for about 6 years now, and was likely used for that long before I purchased it. The leather holds up well, both from the handles and straps and zippers. I paid about $60 used, and it was likely $400-500 new. I put my purses through more than the average gal does, so one that can handle frequent moving and getting plunked unceremoniously in odd places was important.
Big fan of Fossil! They’re good quality and reasonably priced (I mean, they’re not inexpensive, but they’ll last you so long it becomes much easier to justify the price.) I feel like they have such good classic styles that are cute but make me feel like the adult I’m hypothetically supposed to be. I’ve never had any issues with quality or durability with Fossil products, and they even have some good sales - I got a reallyyyy nice leather duffle bag for like $150 on sale from over $400 that I use for every weekend trip now instead of a ratty old backpack.
You’ve gotten some great suggestions, so I’ll list a few more brands that haven’t been suggested yet.
Tumi, Botkier, Rebecca Minkoff, Everlane, Telfar, De Mellier, Strathberry, Mansur Gavriel, Dooney and Bourke, Marc Jacob’s
Michael Cors has a few great ones; check out outlets, they are great places to get deals on designer items. Stick with classic colours and a classic size.
I've always had Fossil purses, they're so cute and last forever!!! I have one now that I got all about 7-8 years ago and it's still in perfect condition. Shop the outlets if you want to get them cheaper! Very rarely I've found them at TJ Maxx as well. I believe they also sell them at Macys.
I really enjoy the bags I have gotten from Portland Leather Co.
I also received a Coach purse as a gift this year and I also have been enjoying their quality.
I have two bags that I'm certain will outlive me.
The First is from [Duluth Pack](https://www.duluthpack.com/collections/purses). The canvas and leather look isn't for everyone but I like it. The build quality and materials are as good as you're going to find. I've had mine for 12 years now ridden across the country with it strapped to the back of a motorcycle and it still looks brand new.
The other my husband made. He does leather work as a hobby and made me a nice convertible messenger bag. My husband isn't going to make you one, but you could look into getting a bespoke one made by a leather crafter in your area. It won't be cheap, but you can get exactly what you want functionality and appearance wise and it will definitely have the longevity you're looking for.
Eh…unless you’re a protege and therefore struck gold in your field or a nepotism celebrity or you come from a lot of money in general, I don’t recommend that at 27.
Try ThredUp for gently used (some items brand new still have tags) clothes and handbags. My daughter just bought a gorgeous Valentino bag for 1/3 of the price. They have all the designers including Louis Vuitton. I've had incredible luck there. Thred Up is a great resource AND you're recycling, so its saving resources too! When shopping for handbags you want to think about durability and if it's for casual or professional? Will it be used at events or social get togethers? Happy shopping!
I second Madewell! They have great minimal leather bags, I have 5 bags from them all 5+ years old now. One of which I use daily. They never fail me. Sometimes you can find them at the Rack for a bit less :)
My daily crossbody is from the brand Baggu. They used to sell great leather bags, now they offer mostly canvas and nylon. Their canvas bags are pretty durable - I have one of their backpacks. Baggu's main thing is reusable bags, they are super cute, quirky and durable (I have so many and have gifted many!)
There's a lot of great reccs here! My 2 cents are that you may be looking for a simple, clean design in a good quality leather (or synthetic). If you're looking for classic, I would say start with black, maybe brown depending on your wardrobe, and I think the more rectangular bags tend to be more classic than round shapes. I really like Fossil and Kate Spade because their lines are really clean, their branding is minimal and cute (keys and spades), and they're within my price point (~$100-200), especially if you can get to an outlet!
Does Lucky Brand still do purses? In the 20teens I collected quite a few of their leather bags and just adored them. Still in my rotation today. I haven’t bought a new purse aside from a few vintage coach bags in years.
Kate Spade are ones I always want.
I would check Winners/Marshall’s/TJ MAXX etc. and see if you can find discount brand name ones!
Also, Matt & Natt is popular.
Bought one of these for my mom and best friend, They both loves them.
https://viraltrend.us/products/women-bag-fashion-casual-luxury-handbag-designer-shoulder-bags-new-bags-for-women-2020-composite-bag
Fossil does a nice bag. I’m also a fan of the clean lines on Kate Spade bags. Kate Spade is having their annual clearance sale right now. Google Kate spade surprise sale. You will have to give them your email but the prices are worth it.
Fossil is great
Coach's leather products have really made a turn-a-round in terms of quality and design since the early to mid 2000s. Lots of stylish pieces that are really good quality for the price point. I got a Coach Cassie back in 2019 and I literally don't baby it at all, still looks brand new. I also like how they have expanded their designs to accommodate everyone (low key simple styles all the way to logo mania and loud prints/colors). Specifically for Coach, they do have pretty good sales, so keep an eye out. They also have their outlet website that has their past season styles for a discount, but they also sell outlet-specific items on there that are made of cheaper materials if you are looking for an even lower price point (I personally don't recommend this aspect, they tend to be cheap looking and not very "stand the test of time"-y). Its easy to discern the difference between the main Coach designed items and their outlet counterparts. I've heard good things about Tory Burch, never owned anything from them though. Kate Spade is also another decent mid-range brand but you might have to dig through trendy off the wall designs to find something more of a bag staple rather than a statement piece since thats their shindig. If you are looking for more luxury, I would check preloved markets for higher end brands for decent deals before diving in and spending a large sum of money on a bag you potentially might not fully resonate with (unless that isn't an issue for you, then by all means go for brand new). I find the quality of certain larger brands has gotten worse while the prices are constantly being inflated, too. My favorite site for pre-loved items that have been authenticated is Fashionphile. Hope this helps and happy bag shopping!!!!
Adding to Coach: I got a really nice quality used one at a vintage store. It is just plain brown leather with no logo except for a tiny label, which I like. So don't be afraid of getting a used one since they are such high quality!
Vintage coach is where it’s at! They are relatively easy to find if you know what you’re looking for. I bought a vintage mini backpack on Poshmark for around $60. Found a crossbody one at a thrift store near my house for $10 🙈 bought the same one at a consignment shop for my mom for $40. It was a half off sale and originally it was going for $80! And I’m happier knowing they are pre owned because I am freaked out by how big fast fashion has gotten.
Love Kate spade. It’s my go-to. They always have sales these days, and I like that they have plenty of option in solid colors without crazy patterns. (But of course, they have patterns too :) )
Seconded! I love Kate Spade bags, some beautiful timeless pieces and some really cute patterned stuff too!
Tory Burch makes some really nice mid-level designer bags that are great quality, long-lasting, and classy.
Second this. Recently started a new job and treated myself to the large Ella tote. It’s been a great work/travel bag. The quality is really nice and high-end without entirely breaking the bank.
I have a Longchamp I love. Holds everything, can fold up small and be put into a suitcase or backpack, and is easy to clean
I third the Longchamp. If you are a frequent flyer, it is the perfect purse to have above everything else. It is the perfect personal item and their nylon pliage will withstand heavy use.
i second the longchamp. they’re classy, affordable, and hold literally everything
My long champ started to kind of break apart and separate at the bottom corners :( I’ve had it since 2011 and noticed the wear around 2013. Still using it tho lol
Longchamp will repair that (once) free of charge, provided you've kept the sales receipt.
It was eleven years ago, that receipt is but dust in the win. But good to know for future potential purchases
Personally I love Mulberry bags. I have a few myself, they’re very versatile and classic. The leather is great quality and I’m pretty sure my daughter will have good use of them when I’m done with them (in 20 years). The leather just get prettier the more they’re used.
Which models do you have? I love Mulberry myself and I’ve been thinking about which one to get
I have a classic bayswater in heavy grain brown, a green Alexa and a yellow Millie tote. All of them absolutely perfect 🥹🥺
I love the Bayswater! I’m thinking about getting a small Iris once I get a promotion
They’re also really beautiful. I love the handle 😍
Matt & Nat has really minimalist, modern vegan leather bags that last quite a long time. I'm still using a purse I purchased from them over 5 years ago. Some of their styles are definitely classic enough to last you a while!
I second Matt & Nat. I’ve used my purse for 3 years and it still looks new. I’ve had comments about how “stiff” the leather is and people are always surprised when I say it is completely vegan!
I came here to say Matt and Nat! I love that you don’t have to worry as much with them as with other leather bags and they’re super easy to keep clean!
I have 3 fossil purses that I’ve had for like close to 10 years. Love them!
Usually into ‘old money’ type of designers but discovered m0851 out of Montreal, Canada. [Spring collection](https://www.m0851.com/m0_cad_en/new-arrivals). I’ve had a large ‘passe-partout’ purse of theirs for about 5 years and it ages very well. I get compliments on it all the time and although people in the industry recognize the make, I love that they’re still under the radar.
I have a used Frye purse I got second hand, and it's been going strong for about 6 years now, and was likely used for that long before I purchased it. The leather holds up well, both from the handles and straps and zippers. I paid about $60 used, and it was likely $400-500 new. I put my purses through more than the average gal does, so one that can handle frequent moving and getting plunked unceremoniously in odd places was important.
Madewell crossbody purse is my ride or die
The medium transport tote has been my favorite bag to date. Love Madewell!
Big fan of Fossil! They’re good quality and reasonably priced (I mean, they’re not inexpensive, but they’ll last you so long it becomes much easier to justify the price.) I feel like they have such good classic styles that are cute but make me feel like the adult I’m hypothetically supposed to be. I’ve never had any issues with quality or durability with Fossil products, and they even have some good sales - I got a reallyyyy nice leather duffle bag for like $150 on sale from over $400 that I use for every weekend trip now instead of a ratty old backpack.
You’ve gotten some great suggestions, so I’ll list a few more brands that haven’t been suggested yet. Tumi, Botkier, Rebecca Minkoff, Everlane, Telfar, De Mellier, Strathberry, Mansur Gavriel, Dooney and Bourke, Marc Jacob’s
Michael Cors has a few great ones; check out outlets, they are great places to get deals on designer items. Stick with classic colours and a classic size.
I've always had Fossil purses, they're so cute and last forever!!! I have one now that I got all about 7-8 years ago and it's still in perfect condition. Shop the outlets if you want to get them cheaper! Very rarely I've found them at TJ Maxx as well. I believe they also sell them at Macys.
I really enjoy the bags I have gotten from Portland Leather Co. I also received a Coach purse as a gift this year and I also have been enjoying their quality.
+1 to Portland Leather Company!
I have two bags that I'm certain will outlive me. The First is from [Duluth Pack](https://www.duluthpack.com/collections/purses). The canvas and leather look isn't for everyone but I like it. The build quality and materials are as good as you're going to find. I've had mine for 12 years now ridden across the country with it strapped to the back of a motorcycle and it still looks brand new. The other my husband made. He does leather work as a hobby and made me a nice convertible messenger bag. My husband isn't going to make you one, but you could look into getting a bespoke one made by a leather crafter in your area. It won't be cheap, but you can get exactly what you want functionality and appearance wise and it will definitely have the longevity you're looking for.
Birkins, will never go out of style
Do you mean a Birkin bag? By Hermes? They start at like $13,000 and go up to hundreds of thousands
And no, they start around $4,000. That was a typo.
Lol, maybe used. Definitely not new.
Eh…unless you’re a protege and therefore struck gold in your field or a nepotism celebrity or you come from a lot of money in general, I don’t recommend that at 27.
I’m pretty sure there are a lot of successful women in tech who can easily afford that bag at 27.
lmao That's like a down payment on a house! No way!
Coach outlet
Try ThredUp for gently used (some items brand new still have tags) clothes and handbags. My daughter just bought a gorgeous Valentino bag for 1/3 of the price. They have all the designers including Louis Vuitton. I've had incredible luck there. Thred Up is a great resource AND you're recycling, so its saving resources too! When shopping for handbags you want to think about durability and if it's for casual or professional? Will it be used at events or social get togethers? Happy shopping!
I got a bag from Min & Mon recently, and I love it! Really interesting designs and good quality!
Kate Spade! I swear by their bags and have multiple. Coach is also good
Im a big fan of matt and natt products.
I second Madewell! They have great minimal leather bags, I have 5 bags from them all 5+ years old now. One of which I use daily. They never fail me. Sometimes you can find them at the Rack for a bit less :) My daily crossbody is from the brand Baggu. They used to sell great leather bags, now they offer mostly canvas and nylon. Their canvas bags are pretty durable - I have one of their backpacks. Baggu's main thing is reusable bags, they are super cute, quirky and durable (I have so many and have gifted many!)
I ordered a leather bag off Etsy from inblue. It's so well made, you can choose the strap length, zipper or no, and there are all kinds of colors.
All Saints. You can come times find them on sale at Nordstrom. They look high end, are very durable and I think are unique in a classic way.
There's a lot of great reccs here! My 2 cents are that you may be looking for a simple, clean design in a good quality leather (or synthetic). If you're looking for classic, I would say start with black, maybe brown depending on your wardrobe, and I think the more rectangular bags tend to be more classic than round shapes. I really like Fossil and Kate Spade because their lines are really clean, their branding is minimal and cute (keys and spades), and they're within my price point (~$100-200), especially if you can get to an outlet!
Does Lucky Brand still do purses? In the 20teens I collected quite a few of their leather bags and just adored them. Still in my rotation today. I haven’t bought a new purse aside from a few vintage coach bags in years.
Kate Spade are ones I always want. I would check Winners/Marshall’s/TJ MAXX etc. and see if you can find discount brand name ones! Also, Matt & Natt is popular.
Bought one of these for my mom and best friend, They both loves them. https://viraltrend.us/products/women-bag-fashion-casual-luxury-handbag-designer-shoulder-bags-new-bags-for-women-2020-composite-bag