I don't mean to brag, but I've become *very* good at finding expensive-looking high-street bags - the kind that get you shocked looks when you say they aren't designer bags.
It is undoubtedly one of the perks of having curated shopping edits for over a decade as a Fashion Editor.
Whilst we all aspire to save up enough to invest in a high end accessory - and there are some really good designer handbags under £500 out there - it's also lovely to look chic and have a healthy bank balance.
Marilyn Nwawulor Kazemaks wearing JW Pei
If my sartorial travels have taught me anything, it's that there are plenty of expensive-looking handbags on the high-street, often for less than £100.
On the premium end of the scale, there are some beautifully crafted suede and leather handbags at stores such as COS and Arket, which are always a worthy investment for their durability.
Hannah Crosskey wearing Massimo Dutti
If you don't want to spend more than £50, fear not. They might be made of raffia, fabric or vegan leather, but you'll find there are a lot of styles that look a lot more expensive than their price tag suggests. Look to M&S and H&M for some fine examples.
The key is to lean away from trends, in favour of more timeless silhouettes such as bucket bags, roomy totes and slim shoulder bags, as well as picking understated hues. Think a palette of nude, chocolate, white and black.
I promise you, if you shop my edit below, no one will believe you when you say your bag isn't designer.
Shop the most expensive-looking handbags on the high-street
Made from suede, this gorgeous shopper comes in three covetable hues, ranging from chocolate brown to burnt orange. It's also big enough to fit a small laptop.
This bag may not be made of real leather, but it certainly looks it. And it's a great way to dip your toe into the fringe trend this season - though it remains a timeless style of course.
Massimo Dutti for me is all about expensive-looking items, which does justify the slightly higher price tag for a high-street store. Case in point: this nappa leather woven crossbody bag, which is chic and practical.
I actually own this in the cream colourway, and always get compliments when I wear it. It's made of great quality vegan leather and is the perfect evening bag.
The Farrow has been a bestseller for Sézane for years, and for good reason. It's a perfect bucket shape which comes in timeless shades and fits more than you think.
Sure, you won't fit much into this bag, but you'll wear it to every daytime event this Summer.
A beautifully paired-back curved shoulder bag.
Say hello to your new go-to evening bag.
I own this crossbody in black and can confirm you will get so much wear out of it, and many, many compliments.
Intrigued by the bowling bag trend that's everywhere this season? Try this H&M style.
I love the strap detail on this bag.
This versatile tote is made from leather, which was treated without chrome.
Part of the collaboration between Whistles and Hai Elsie, this chocolate silk pouch will see you through many a party.
Woven leather bags are a wardrobe staple no matter the season, and Jigsaw have some great styles this season.
Minimal and chic.
The dark olive shade really elevates this purse string style bag.
Simply a chic faux leather shopper you can wear every day.
