10 Classic Handbag Inspirations

While browsing through the Harper's Bazaar Fashion section, I came across this article about which handbags to buy for 2014. Although handbags are an investment piece, they are something I plan to splurge on when I land my first dream job. Until now, I just have to content myself looking through high-street brands - my student budget does not really allow me to do otherwise.

HOWEVER, the high-street brands do get their inspirations from somewhere, hence the products resembling higher-end ones. Some call them dupes, some call them fashion inspirations. Personally, I would never go out buying a fake replica of a designer product, however I do enjoy searching for high-street pieces inspired by the more expensive designers. They may not hold the designer label, but they do add that something extra to your outfit. I took the liberty of browsing through some websites, trying to find less expensive versions of the handbags for those with a tight budget.

1. FENDI 2Jours Tote Bag, $2,350

At $2,350, it does come with quite a price tag. Check out this MANGO Decorative Shopping Bag at €79.99. It is even divided into compartments!

2. VALENTINO Rockstud Shopper Tote, $2,195

It's fashion inspiration - RIVER ISLAND Black Leather Quilt & Stud Tote Bag. It may be more on the expensive side at €138.90, but it is definitely much cheaper than the Valentino.

3. SAINT LAURENT Ligne Classic Tote, €1,790

Two colour variations, a roomy compartment... what more could you want? Something with a more attractive price tag, maybe? This MANGO Tote Bag has the same features at @59.99.

4. PRADA Saffiano Vernice Leather Tote, €1,224.81

An inspired bag with the same name?! MANGO Saffiano-Effect Tote Bag at €39.99 comes in three colour variations.

5. THE ROW Leather Backpack, €3, 393.98

Forget school. A season must-have inspired by the Olsens, giving a unique twist to your outfit, whilst fitting all your belongings.  But at almost €3, 5000, it is not the most budget-friendly investment. ASOS Leather Luxe Backpack comes in two colour variations at €104.18. And it is real leather.

 6. CELINE Shopper Bag

 

Shopper bags are seen everywhere lately. While I have not found the price for this CELINE Shopper Bag, I am certain this ASOS Leather Ultra Slim Shopper version below is more inexpensive at €104.18. Now it is even further reduced to €43.75!

 

7. LOUIS VUITTON Sofia Coppola bag, $4,750

This equally fashionable MANGO Studded Bowling Bag is also on sale at the moment, reduced to €29.99 from €59.99!

8. GIVENCHY Obsedia Leather Shoulder Bag, $1, 555 $1,088

Available in different colour and pattern variations, this Givenchy is the perfect cross-over. This ASOS Mini Doctors Bag comes close in adding personality to your look at just €20.14 (from €48.62).

9. Proenza Schouler PS11 Mini Classic Leather Bag, $1,588

With a similar style to the GIVENCHY Obsedia, ASOS seem to have been taking quite some inspirations from the bigger houses with this Leather Mini Cross Body Bag at €55.56. Without the price tag, of course.

10. CHANEL 2.55 Bag, price upon request

 

That price upon request is already discouraging within itself, and while nothing can actually compare to a Chanel bag, ASOS have come pretty close, once again, with regards to design with their Quilted Lock Cross Body Bag at €22.22.

Do you own any of these high-street or high-end bags from above? Which is your favourite bag brand?