Fall And Winter Handbags Under $500
I take handbag shopping pretty seriously π After all, handbags are the protector of valuables, my office away from home, and a fashion statement. I have handbags for various occasions: work, events, dance-mom duties, vacations, and of course, the changing seasons. I look for handbags that are under $500 (but I almost always buy them on sale for much less), and over $50 to make sure that they’re durable.
Whether you like to have one handbag or a whole collection, keep in mind that it is a part of your outfit and personal style. Is your handbag the right color and style for your daily outfits? Or do you need a couple of options that you can switch for different occasions or outfit colors? Looking for something new? Take a look at these handbags under $500…
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Leather Totes
A handbag that changes shape with strategically placed buckles or snaps? Sign me up, as I love a bargain! I bought this All Saints Leather Shoulder Tote during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025. I can cinch it in with the buckles or leave it open for more space when I travel. It’s also available in chestnut suede.
If you like this style, but want a smaller size, there’s a mini crossbody version available at Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom.
For a more affordable style, take a look at Kate Spade Outlet’s Large Tote Set. This one comes with a pouch and a wristlet. Coach Outlet also has a roomy Tote.
Bucket Bags
I bought this medium-sized suede and leather bucket bag during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I really like that it has a magnetic snap to keep valuables secure, even when the drawstring is left loose. It’s also a nice size and has little pockets on the outside for quick access. Mine has sold out but the canvas version is available (and marked down).
Madewell’s Drawstring Crossbody Bag is smaller than mine but has a similar shape. For an affordable vegan leather option, take a look at this Mali + Lili Nylon Bucket Bag.
East/West And Baguette Bags
East/West bags and Baguette bags are long bags, usually with shoulder straps. I think they’re shaped more like a box of crackers than a baguette, but that’s how they’re known in the fashion industry! They’re reminiscent of the 90s, a decade that continues to influence today’s styles. I bought this Veronica Beard Boxy Leather Shoulder Bag during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but opted for my navy bucket bag as I need the extra space. It was a gorgeous handbag – a bit painful to return!
You’ll find similar handbags in suede at Madewell and leather at J.Crew.
Coach Outlet has a gorgeous selection, including options in chocolate leather, cow print, and their signature fabric. And you can dress up your handbag with charm chains.
Handbags With Fringe Details
Fringe details have made a comeback, along with cow prints, horse motifs, embellishments, and cowboy boots. I bought my Rebecca Minkoff handbag over 7 years ago, and I plan to wear it again this fall.
If you are adding a handbag with fringe, note that the current styles are either rectangular, crescent, or bucket-shaped. Take a look at this Rebecca Minkoff Fringe Handbag and this Veronica Beard Shoulder Bag.
While styles do come around again, they’re always a little different, so think about how much a trend means to you and whether you want to update or reuse what you have. I think fringe is a fun detail, but not something I can’t live without, so I’m going to reuse my old bag!
Want a super affordable way to try out this trend? Add a leather tassel bag charm to your current handbag.
Slouchy Shoulder Bags
If you like the kind of handbag you can throw everything into, you’ll love the oversized slouchy bags that are trending right now. Take a look at this Coach Outlet Bag, this Madewell Shoulder Bag and this vegan leather bag.
Mini-Trend: Cow Print
And, of course, I have to mention the cow print mini-trend again (you’ll find the link to that post below). Mine has an asymmetrical shape, but you’ll find plenty of cow print options in bucket, baguette, crescent, and rectangular shapes. All of the handbags in that post are also under $500.
Tell me your favorite handbag styles of the season!
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