Are Luxury Bags Even Cool Anymore?
Where to shop for better options under $650.
I’ve never been a luxury handbag girl, so when Olivia Ginsberg pitched this story, I felt vindicated. As it turns out, you can find beautiful, quality, interesting bags at all price points! Below, I’m handing the mic to Olivia to walk us through a few of her favorite “less market saturation, more self-expression” options.
I’m going to say something blasphemous. I don’t think mainstream-luxury is cool anymore. Gone are the days of the term “luxury” being synonymous with good quality; now, most designer boutiques are jam-packed with cheaply-made, logo-covered iterations of seasons past. Although there are some designer bags that “it girls” are still pulling off, I find myself less likely to stop and stare when a recognizable, luxury bag passes me on the street. Instead, I do a double take at the unique, vintage or quirky bags I’ve never seen before.
In a world of logomania and “super dupes,” seeing something less mainstream is like a breath of fresh air, allowing for less market saturation and more self-expression. Instead of being swooned by brands in the luxury market, I am beginning to fall in love with mid-range bags that are outperforming their counterparts in terms of style, quality and price.
Brands That Are Doing It Right
Scouring the internet, you will run across thousands of brands claiming to sell bags in genuine leathers and trendy styles. However, after getting my hands on many of them, I realized most are not what they claim to be. Instead, they’re cheap, factory-made dupes of better products. Luckily, we’re here so you can learn from my mistakes.
One of my new favorite brands is family-owned leather manufacturer Pietro NYC. After 43 years in the industry, Pietro NYC is one of the few leather manufacturers left working out of the New York Garment District. The brand is not only putting out their own designs, but is also producing goods and samples for nearly every major designer and well-known brand that still manufactures in the United States–meaning their quality is proven and relied upon by big names.
I was immediately drawn to the brand when I was introduced to The Lafayette, a mini-barrel bag designed in supple leather that is available in 15+ colors. I got my hands on the embossed-crocodile version and was extremely impressed with the quality–especially since the bag is under $200. Pietro NYC only has a few styles on their website–but what they do, they do well.
Another brand I was drawn to was Gigi New York. I had heard of them before, but wasn’t aware that the brand’s factory was set up right outside NYC in Long Island. Gigi NYC not only focuses on their own line, but when touring the factory you may see products for Harrods, Itoya of Tokyo and Tiffany in production.
After spending some time using Gigi NYC’s Avery Bucket Bag, I was once again shocked at the price disparity between the beautifully-crafted bag I was holding and most traditional, luxury bags on the market. The quality difference was astounding, with some luxury bags I’ve worn showing wear with tarnished hardware and loose stitching after just a few uses. The Avery Bucket Bag exceeded my expectations with sturdy leather and stitching that I felt safe putting to the test against my heavy laptop. After continued wear, I can tell this bag will just get better with age, unlike some other bags in my closet.
Similarly to Pietro NYC, Gigi NY is family-run and prioritizes exceptional value without the luxury markup. Both Gigi and Pietro are able to cut out the middleman and by producing in the United States, they can inspect the product directly off the production line–guaranteeing superior-quality.
Does Luxury Equal Quality?
Short answer–no. This has been something that consumers have been catching onto for years. Your favorite luxury influencer has probably gone online to complain about the poor quality of her new Chanel Classic Flap, or you may have spent hours scrolling through endless TikToks exposing famous brands (think orange boxes) for using the same Chinese factories that produce dupes listed on AliExpress.
So, if the big-name brands we used to strive for are cutting corners, why are smaller brands like Gigi NY and Pietro NYC able to keep their products high-quality? It mostly comes down to their direct-to-consumer approach. By handling everything in-house, they can bypass the large budgets and high-overhead costs of keeping large quantities of stock on hand.
“We've noticed that many brands today charge premium prices, but not all of them deliver on long-term quality—especially as more production moves offshore, and materials shift toward cost-cutting alternatives,” said Tom Glazer, owner of Gigi New York.
Luxury brands continue to increase their prices, not because the market demands it, but because they have the power behind their name to continue to do so. As quality diminishes, Luxury brands will continue to have enough supporters to increase prices–just because of a small logo, American manufacturers like Gigi New York push high-quality and craftsmanship to keep their customers coming back for more. Without the giant marketing budget and cult following, these homegrown brands cannot rely on a logo to win over consumers.
“Our silhouettes are intentionally timeless and seasonless because we want customers to invest in pieces that last, not trends that fade,” said Glazer. “While our pricing reflects that commitment, we’re proud to say our quality consistently exceeds the price tag—especially compared to many larger, luxury competitors.”
Similarly, family-owned leather manufacturer Pietro NYC has observed a significant shift in the luxury market. Many of the brand’s competitors seem to be prioritizing a higher price point over quality of goods.
“We've noticed a trend where the quality of goods has unfortunately diminished, often relying on shortcuts like cheaper hardware and materials,” said Ashley Dabagh, co-owner of Pietro NYC. “It appears that for some larger names, consumers are increasingly paying a premium for the brand itself, rather than for superior craftsmanship.”
Best Going Out Bags
Pietro NYC The Lafayette, $195.00 USD
I fell in love with Pietro NYC after getting my hands on The Lafayette bag. The leather was so supple, it was like holding a Chanel lambskin bag. The shape of The Lafayette is reminiscent of The Row 90s Bag and is the perfect option to get the look for less. I love to bring this bag with me on a night out, it fits all the essentials and rests comfortably over the shoulder or in the crook of my arm. The best part of all of Pietro NYC’s bags? They come in every color and texture you can think of, so you can always find a style to match your personality.
Late to Work Devon Bag, $189.00
You can’t go wrong with a classic baguette bag, and Late to Work is making one of my favorites. Meant to last, the Devon Bag is made in the style of the season: the east-west baguette. The mocha brown color is the perfect shade to fit into any year-round wardrobe, and add a little modern flair to an outfit.
Minor History The Frame Shoulder Bag, $268.00
I'm a sucker for a soft-leather bag. When I got my hands on The Frame Bag from Minor History, I could not get over how high-quality the leather felt. Minor History’s ethos is that their bags are meant to be worn–with lasting power always top of mind. The Frame Bag immediately gave off the quiet-luxury vibes that are consistently popular. I would not be surprised to see this style on the runway for a high-fashion brands fall/winter collection.
Mashu Aphrodite 2, $337.00
If you are looking for a bag that doubles as a work of art, then Mashu is the place to look. The brand was founded by Greek designer Ioanna Topouzoglou, and was born out of a desire to create vegan accessories that offer sustainability without compromising style. Each bag is adorned with statement hardware to give the silhouette its own playful personality, and the vegan leather gives each bag a sustainable and sturdy structure. I personally love the Aphrodite 2 bag, which fits comfortably under the arm and features a gorgeous sculptural toggle.
Best Everyday Bags
Gigi New York Avery Bucket Bag, $535.00
As you will see from my picks, I am fairly confident that the bucket bag is back in for 2025. Similarly, I am obsessed with a bluey-grey hue that I have been seeing scattered throughout my favorite brand’s accessories collections. Enter Gigi New York’s Avery Bucket Bag in Coastal blue. This bag has become my everyday tote and fits everything you could possibly need for a day out in the city. The leather quality is better than some luxury bags I have purchased, and I love that the strap is long enough to sling crossbody in the event that I need both of my hands while out and about.
Baggu Recycled Leather Shoulder Bag, $190
When Baggu tapped into the leather accessories market I knew I had to get my hands on one of their bags. I saw their Leather Shoulder Bag in-store and fell in love with the size, shape and colors. The smooth, pebbled finish and metal hardware give the bag a high-end feel, but the recycled leather keeps it low cost and eco-friendly. The shoulder bag is designed for organization with a zip pocket, key leash, and room for a 13/14" laptop on the inside.
Aest Studios Capture Medium Sling Bag, $196.00
Inspired by a camera bag, the Capture Medium Sling Bag blends timeless design with fashion and elegance to fulfill both functional and aesthetic needs. Created by an architect with an appreciation for detail, Aest Studios blends design with practicality and creates bags that are perfect for commuting, capturing life’s moments, or enjoying a casual weekend getaway. Modeled after a camera bag, The Sling Bag opens fully via a double zipper to expose a customizable organizational system inside.
Aallyn Jolina Bucket Tote, $290.00
I gifted the Aallyn Jolina Bucket Tote to my mom because I felt like it was the perfect bag to fit into her high-speed, working lifestyle. Family founded, Aallyn’s styles are detail oriented down to the smallest stitch. Each bag is built to last a lifetime and keep you organized with an included nylon organizer & key leash. The Jolina will carry all of your essentials to make sure you are ready to take on the day. It is a great bag for a mom or someone working in a fast-paced environment.
Best Work Bags
Léo et Violette Le Maxi Gina, $640
The perfect bag to take you from the gym to work, Léo et Violette Le Maxi Gina is crafted in rich Italian leather. Founded in Paris, the brand is designed to emphasize clean, minimalist details with no logos or monograms–making sure the quality of materials stands out. Le Maxi Gina is huge and can fit my laptop, lunch and everything else I might need for a day at the office. Thanks to its clever design, it can be worn in two ways: open, as a spacious tote, or with the sides tucked in for a more structured, rectangular shape.
M.Gemi The Laura Convertible Backpack, $348
I love The Laura Bag by M.Gemi because of its clever design that allows you to easily switch between backpack and tote. I’ve found myself struggling to carry a full tote home after a long day and having the ability to turn your bag into a backpack can take some pressure off my commute.
Milaner The Travel Elena Woven Handbag, $545
Made from handwoven, buttery-soft Nappa leather, The Travel Elena from Milaner is perfect for the office or a long-haul flight. The woven design is so in right now and the Elena can fit everything from a change of clothes to a laptop and work lunch. Milaner is my go-to for superior craftsmanship, as they work exclusively with Italian and French, luxury-artisans to create beautiful bags in small batches.
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Thank you so much for introducing me to Pietro NYC and AALYN - obsessed and excited!