With designer mid-range bags on the rise, we delved into this seasons collections to find our favourite affordable luxury handbags. These chic numbers – all priced under HK$5,000 – will have you looking on-trend in no time!

Strathberry: East/West Mini, HK$4,250 

Luxury leather label Strathberry experienced a 200 – 300% sales increase immediately after Meghan Markle was seen in Edinburgh carrying its East/West Mini in Bottle Green. With already 1,000 people on the waiting list, it is estimated that this year’s sales will increase by 10-20% due to the increase in brand awareness. Adding to the list of high profile names choosing to carry Strathberry bags is Victoria Magrath, author of award-winning fashion, beauty and travel blog, Inthefrow. This March, Strathberry will collaborate with Victoria to announce the launch of an exclusive capsule collection. The limited-edition collection will feature Victoria’s favourite East/West and East/West Mini styles along with a selection of leather pouches and cardholders in an elegant colour palette of plum and rose, as chosen by Victoria. Keep your eyes peeled ladies; this is definitely a must-have for this season! 

 

Tory Burch: Half Moon Straw Cross-body, HK$ 4,200

American Sportswear brand, Tory Burch is known for its effortlessly stylish everyday staples. The Half Moon Straw Cross-Body, however, steps it up a notch! Trimmed in pebbled leather, the woven-straw side is a refreshing take on this popular Tory Burch silhouette. Two front zip pockets, a magnetic-flap pocket and a structured, foldout shape, means you won’t have to dig around in search of your phone and other essentials. Pair this Spring-Summer tote bag with espadrille-style slip-ons or wedge sandals to create an effortlessly chic look.  

 

3.1 Phillip Lim: Ray Mini Glove Pouch, HK$4,290 

Born in Thailand and of Chinese descent, Phillip Lim is a key figure in New York’s wave of Asian-American fashion designers with celebrities such as Natalie Portman and Kate Hudson, sporting his coveted products. Keeping in tune with his cool yet elegant designs, the Ray Mini Glove Pouch is the perfect bag for the global female on the go. Introducing this seasons ‘Accordian’ bag group – a series of lightweight leather totes – these nimble yet considered accessories are a true example of simple luxuries in today’s world. The result is an easy, chic look that embodies youthful elegance with a contemporary price point.

 

Coach: Tea Rose Glossy Glovetan Camera Bag, HK$3,950

For Spring 2018, Coach introduces its Tea Rose Glossy Glovetan Camera Bag. Inspired by vintage camera bags, this simple silhouette features the brands Tea Rose Turnlock and signature chain strap, and will be available for sale in March. Unzip the chic number to reveal an open compartment that has just enough space to fit a phone and purse, or…a camera. 

 

Kate Spade: Emerson Place Sam Bag, HK$3,500

In celebration of its 25th birthday, Kate Spade New York will reissue the brand’s original Sam handbag with a contemporary twist. First launched in 1993, the Sam bag was both utilitarian and timeless with a simple, boxy black design, made from waterproof nylon. Now, for the relaunch, this classic bag will be available in a variety of versions, adding new materials such as leather, wicker, denim, quilted leather and printed canvas. While each one is unique, they are just as timeless as the original.

 So its official; affordable luxury has never been more exciting! 

Text: Hira Desai