I’ve loved the look of a cool designer bag ever since 8th grade when I saved up my cash to purchase my first Coach purse. Trends have changed but I still love the look of a designer bag which IMO is an investment piece. I believe if you’re going to invest in a purse it’s better to buy a classic and timeless piece that will retain it’s value, like Chanel or Saint Laurent. If it’s more of a trend, like the Bottega bags, personally I’ll look for a good dupe for a fraction of the cost. It’s pretty crazy that some of these bags are the equivalent to monthly rent. Since I don’t have that kind of Hailey Bieber flex in my bank account for a green Bottega bag, I’ll get the look for less and still be able to afford living in my apartment.
Pro Tip: If you want the designer bag for less, check out Fashionphile, my favorite online consignment store. They have 100’s of designers and you can set an alert for the specific bag you’re hunting for online. I’ve also sold a few designer bags there.
I use these dupes below all of the time and love the way they look. I can easily fit my wallet, keys, iPhone, and lipstick into each bag.
Here are my top picks for on trend designer bags + dupes with my reviews.
xx, Heather
This bag is super popular right now. I found this cool designer dupe for a fraction of the cost that’s identical to the Cult Gaia Hera Nano crystal embellished shoulder bag. This has been my recent go-to bag with a cute top, heels, and jeans. The sparkle on the dupe is still swoon worthy and photographs so cool. Perfect for going out or an event.
I’m loving this Amazon designer dupe I have in black. It’s the same look as the woven leather Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie bag. IMO, this is the best overall dupe and my current favorite. It can be dressed up with a cocktail dress or down with jeans and a cute top or blazer.
This Cult Gaia Eos Box Clutch is an avant-garde statement piece that would be perfect for brides and bridal events. I found this dupe on Etsy with great reviews. I would also look at this identical dupe here that comes in a variety of fun colors.
Here’s another popular Bottega Veneta The Chain Cassette woven leather bag. I think this bag looks the best with a blazer, denim, and heels. The designer bag chain is SO heavy! I’ve tried it on in the store. Personally, if anything is uncomfortable I’m not interested. It is a gorgeous bag and the leather is top quality. The $45 dupe I purchased from Amazon gets you a similar look. Obviously the quality isn’t there. The bag is a little smaller, but I do like that the chain is light. I have not noticed any tarnishing or chipping on the metal. The “leather” does feel really cheap and more like plastic though, so if you’re wanting to spend a little more for a better quality dupe I would purchase this one.