2 years ago I fell in love with this amazing Prada handbag. And guys. I fell hard. It is basically my definition of the perfect handbag. Gorgeous neutral camel color, saffiano leather, perfect size to be an everyday purse. It is seriously the perfect handbag. I put it on my “someday” or “day dream” wishlist, because spending $3000 on a handbag at the time was not in the cards.
And even now, as my blog/business has grown, I still have trouble feeling like I can justify a bag like that. At least, not with 4 kids, and new old farmhouse that needs some serious love/remodeling…and all that comes with that. And don’t get me wrong, I am not judging anyone who can, I’m just saying, I haven’t been able to pull the trigger on purchasing a handbag that costs as much as the car my husband and I drove all through college.
(I mean, it was an old Kia Sephia, but still.)
But it’s still an amazing bag, and I do believe in quality, so when the time is right, I’ll probably pull the trigger on it, but until then, I really wanted a bag that came close. So several months ago I set out to find myself a great alternative to my dream bag, but more in the price-range which I am willing to invest in (between $250-$400). It took awhile, but I finally found two great options and I ended up buying this amazing Tory Burch bagwhich immediately took the coveted favorite handbag spot in my closet because, it’s perfect. The size, color, quality, function, it’s exactly what I was looking for and I wear it almost every day as a result. And I seriously cannot believe how great the price is on it. Like, I still feel like they made a mistake, cause I was expecting to spend closer to $400 for a Tory Burch baglike this. Anyway, I love it so much I’m planning to purchase the same bag in white for summer as well. (If it ain’t broke, right?)
That got me thinking about where I was even 5-6 years ago, when I really wasn’t in a situation or mindset to spend even $300 handbag and how I would have loved for someone to find me a good alternative in the $20-70 range. And that hypothetically some of you might also be wanting the same thing.
So I got to work, because I like following hypotheticals.
I went and found a few options/alternatives to the Prada bag of my dreams in every price range. Here’s what I got:
First of all, let’s talk about the benefits of a camel colored handbag. Because to me it’s the perfect color neutral. It goes with everything. And it’s such a classic color.
Splurge: If you are ready to take the leap on a big deal bag, this Prada one is, in my opinion, the one to start with. It’s perfect every bag.
Spend: If you are in a situation to invest in a good mid-level bag, both of these are great options. I almost bought this Ralph Lauren one like a dozen times and the only reasons I didn’t are 1. I am a shoulder bag snob. I really like wearing my bags on my shoulders, and the functionality it gives me having both of my arms free, and 2. I found the Tory Burch bag. It’s till such a pretty bag, the color and shape are perfect. And I cannot get over how reasonable the price is. This Tory Burch bag won out for all the reasons mentioned above, and because, shoulder bag. Also, really reasonably priced. I believe in investing in pieces you wear over and over again, and both of these bags are a great investment.
Save: For this category, I’ve got inexpensive and a downright steal. This sole society bag is under $70. It’s got a good shape and size. You obviously loose some of the design, material, and quality when you hit the lower price range, but it’s still a really pretty functional bag. This Target handbag in the lowest on the list coming in at just under $20. Yes, you read that right. To be honest, I have several bags from Target, and while they’re never going to write songs about them, I’m always surprised just how pretty they are, well they are made, and hold up considering exactly how inexpensive they are. If you are on a teeny-tiny-tight budget, this would be a great bag that you could use everyday, with just about anything.
So there you have it! Which bag is your favorite?
Let me know if you’d like this to become a thing on here: hunting down good alternatives to designer pieces, and if there’s a designer piece you are dying to own, but can’t quite do right now…
so yes/no:) I am obsessed and have been for 4 years with the Chloe bag. I LOVE IT but not willing to splurge, However My grandma gave me money before she passed away 6 years ago for a “good handbag” she always believed you should have one good handbag as she would say. And I purchased a LV never full and I believe it was about 1100 and it was the BEST investment. But it was expensive and I think anything more than may be nuts but I can’t decide! obviously no help…
I have also been eyeing the Prada saffiano in carmel for awhile. That and the Givenchy Antigona in grey or black. However, i can’t seem to justify spending over 2K, it just sounds ludacris. However, today’s post assures me, I am not the only one that feels or thinks this way. Plus, I never considered Tory Burch…..so thanks for the suggestion. To address, your question, yes, I would appreciate it if this type of post can become a series. https://ifesdomain.com/
Like you, that Prada bag has been calling my name, but I just can’t go there. When that Tory Burch came out, I was instantly in love, and every time you carry it, I drool. LOL!!!! It’s a great substitute, and a gorgeous bag. I’ve also had that Sole Society tote, and it’s a great bag for the price. Great picks!
I adore posts like these and have done “spend or save” posts on my blog too. You’ve found some lovely options at all price points, and it’s not always easy to find high AND low price point options, great job finding these! And I’m with you, it really is a gorgeous netural handbag.
That Prada bag sure is gorgeous! I love these alternatives you picked! I’ve seen them in person and they’re just as gorgeous!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
so yes/no:) I am obsessed and have been for 4 years with the Chloe bag. I LOVE IT but not willing to splurge, However My grandma gave me money before she passed away 6 years ago for a “good handbag” she always believed you should have one good handbag as she would say. And I purchased a LV never full and I believe it was about 1100 and it was the BEST investment. But it was expensive and I think anything more than may be nuts but I can’t decide! obviously no help…
I have also been eyeing the Prada saffiano in carmel for awhile. That and the Givenchy Antigona in grey or black. However, i can’t seem to justify spending over 2K, it just sounds ludacris. However, today’s post assures me, I am not the only one that feels or thinks this way. Plus, I never considered Tory Burch…..so thanks for the suggestion. To address, your question, yes, I would appreciate it if this type of post can become a series.
https://ifesdomain.com/
Like you, that Prada bag has been calling my name, but I just can’t go there. When that Tory Burch came out, I was instantly in love, and every time you carry it, I drool. LOL!!!! It’s a great substitute, and a gorgeous bag. I’ve also had that Sole Society tote, and it’s a great bag for the price. Great picks!
I adore posts like these and have done “spend or save” posts on my blog too. You’ve found some lovely options at all price points, and it’s not always easy to find high AND low price point options, great job finding these! And I’m with you, it really is a gorgeous netural handbag.
shoppingbrake.com
Splurge or save! Hahaha! Ikea copied you:)
http://www.adweek.com/agencies/ikea-had-a-great-reaction-to-balenciaga-making-a-2145-version-of-its-iconic-99-cent-blue-bag/
oh my gosh that article was hilarious! love it!