Top Bags in 2025 for Every Budget

A Boyfriend's Guide to Bags

Okay ladies, let’s discuss something near and dear to our hearts… bags. If you’re a girl or for the girls, you’ve probably wanted a bag for your birthday or a holiday but have definitely opened up something from your man and had to make that face…

Well, to avoid this absolute tragedy, we thought we’d make a boyfriend’s guide to bags—the bare minimum they should know when shopping, from around $100 all the way up to the heavy hitters. So, let’s not wait—each passing minute means another ugly bag could be wrapped and ready to haunt us.

Reminders for the Boyfriends:

If your girlfriend wants Chanel, Hermès, or any of the fancy labels, don’t panic. There are ways to make it happen—outlet stores, online shopping, and strategic saving will be your best friend. If she loves designer labels (and if she reads articles from this website, she absolutely does), then you’re officially stepping into luxury territory.

(PSA: If you’re new to fashion and totally clueless about brands—if it says a name followed by New York, Paris, London, or Milan… buy it. If it’s in your budget, she’ll probably love it.)

Girl Math Level: $0 – $100

LL Bean Canvas Tote ($40)

For the effortlessly chic, practical girl who somehow looks put together even in a messy bun. If your girlfriend wears Ralph Lauren, loves blue-wash jeans and button-ups, and has ever said the words “old money aesthetic,” this is your safest bet. A navy blue-trimmed white tote from LL Bean is her go-to casual bag—perfect for farmers' market runs, beach days, or her daily iced coffee trip.

Kate Spade Small Crossbody Bag ($60-$90)

This one is a little more one-size-fits-all. Kate Spade is an entry-level luxury brand, meaning it’s a step up from an everyday bag but not quite a head-turner like Louis Vuitton or Hermès. The crossbody design is perfect for the girl who’s always on the move—whether she’s grabbing brunch, running errands, or heading to class. It comes in every color, so do some research (and don’t just grab the first one you see).

JW Pei Gabbi Bag ($90)

A bag for the cool girl who doesn’t need much—just her essentials and a little bit of attitude. A vegan leather mini bag perfect for the girlfriend who carries nothing but her five infinity stones: lip gloss, vape, a snack, a shot of something, and a lighter. It’s cute, it’s small, and it’s her best friend. Again, check her wardrobe for color inspo—if you’re not sure, black is always safe.

(Boyfriend tip: Just because she says purple is her favorite color doesn’t mean she wants a purple bag. Look at what she actually wears!)

Regular Math Level: $100 – $500

Marc Jacobs Leather Tote ($400)

A perfect work/travel tote for the girl who’s always carrying her life in her bag. Fits her laptop, is carry-on friendly, and will survive life under an airplane seat. If she loves New York vibes and old money style, this is a win. She’s probably got a neutral capsule wardrobe and a coffee addiction.

Coach Tabby 26 Crossbody ($350)

A structured, everyday bag that adds texture to an outfit. The kind of bag that makes her feel polished whether she’s in a dress or jeans and sneakers. Coach is known for high-quality leather and is a solid step into designer bags. If she loves understated luxury, this will make her happy.

Michael Kors Soho Quilted Shoulder Bag ($450)

A bag for the girl who wants the classic, feminine look without the Chanel price tag. Michael Kors is all about classic American fashion, and this quilted design gives Chanel vibes on a budget. If she loves elegant, timeless outfits and dressing up for every occasion, this is her bag.

Luxury Math Level: $500 – $2,000

Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Double Bag ($850)

A minimalist, chic tote inspired by Lee Radziwill (Jackie O’s sister). For the girl who exudes quiet confidence—she’s got a Pinterest board filled with classic, tailored outfits and a thing for vintage icons.

Polène Numéro Dix ($600)

A Parisian it-girl crossbody with unique structure and buttery soft leather. If she loves effortless elegance and lowkey luxury, this will be her everyday obsession. Perfect for the girl who wants to look put-together but never like she’s trying too hard.

Saint Laurent Lou Camera Bag ($1,700)

For the cool girl who loves a logo moment but still keeps it classy. The YSL Lou Camera Bag is iconic, recognizable, and perfect for date nights. If your girlfriend is always wearing black, gold jewelry, and perfect winged eyeliner, this is her bag.

Finance Bro Math Level: $2,000 – $5,000

Chanel Wallet on Chain (WOC) ($3,500)

If she wants Chanel, but your bank account is in distress, this is a good way to get her the logo she loves without taking out a second mortgage. A petite, elegant bag for the girl who’s all about timeless fashion and investment pieces.

Louis Vuitton Capucines Mini ($4,500)

Understated, sleek, and the definition of quiet luxury. If she loves old money vibes and doesn’t need a logo to prove it, this is for her. The girl who carries this appreciates craftsmanship over clout.

Fendi Peekaboo ISeeU Small ($5,000)

The It-bag for the grown woman. It’s classy, it’s powerful, and it screams expensive. If your girl walks like she owns the room and always has her life together (or at least makes it look that way), this bag will match her energy.

PhD in Girl Math Level: $5,000+

Chanel Classic Flap Bag ($10,200+)

This is the final boss of handbags. If she has this, she has made it. Also, expect a 10-year waitlist for certain colors because Chanel knows its power. This is for the elegant, timeless woman who treats her accessories like investments.

Hermès Evelyne PM ($3,800)

A lowkey starter Hermès bag. If she’s got Birkin dreams but you’re easing into it, this is a good warm-up. A bag for the girl who appreciates luxury without the flash.

Birkin 25 or 30 ($12,000 - $50,000)

A bag so exclusive you can’t just buy it—you have to be invited. If you ever manage to get your hands on one, propose on the spot.