As a longtime fashion editor, trust me when I say it doesn’t take a million bucks to create an expensive-looking wardrobe. Whether you live in a tiny apartment or have an entire dressing room to fill, the styling philosophy remains the same: invest in bags and shoes; they make the outfit.
I try to maintain a capsule wardrobe, so while I occasionally splurge on a designer item, I prefer to use my shopping savvy to unearth the most luxurious-looking accessories at more reasonable prices. I know I’ve found a winner when I spot something that looks like it should be expensive, but then I am rewarded with sticker shock—the good kind—at checkout.
As we head into 2025, I’m prioritizing patterns, materials, and embellishments that make almost any accessory look at least three times the price. So, to keep it simple, I’ve honed in on six expensive-looking but accessible trends in the shoe and handbag categories. From suede bags and moto boots to casual-cool clogs and capacious totes, there’s something special to suit every wardrobe no matter your budget.
Keep scrolling to shop for several exceptional pairs of shoes, eye-catching carry-alls, and a few petite purses to add to your wardrobe. Shop now while so many amazing items are on sale, and slyly smile when people wonder if an end-of-year promotion just doubled your paycheck.
1. Leopard Bags
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Kate Moss was spotted in Paris toting a leopard print Saint Laurent carry-all earlier this fall.
Zara
Animal Print Leather Mini Bucket Bag
Reformation
Mini Rosetta Shoulder Bag
One of our all-time favorite Reformation bags, the Mini Rosetta comes in several colors and prints. But we’re partial to this lovely leopard pattern.
Mango
Nylon Bag With Double Handles
This smartly structured bag looks even more expensive in person.
A sly shoulder bag that packs a patterned punch.
2. Suede Bags
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Actress Yara Shahidi was spotted in NYC wearing a denim and white blouse paired perfectly with oxblood red pumps and a large suede Gucci bag.
Gap
Vegan Suede Slouchy Tote Bag
This vegan suede style is giving The Row vibes for way, way less.
St. Agni
Mini Bon Bon Bag
Looks fabulous and fits all of the essentials: keys, wallet, phone, and a lip gloss.
Mansur Gavriel
Candy Hobo Bag
Mansur Gavriel’s popular Candy bag comes in several colors and materials—we’re dreaming of adding this forest green suede style to our purse collection.
Madewell
Essentials Suede Bucket Bag
Madewell’s suede and leather goods are on par with much pricer brands, especially the roomy bucket bags.
3. Clogs
MANGO
Mule-Style Clogs With Buckles
Of course Mango’s version of the trend is perfect.
Shopbop
Birkenstock Boston Braid Clogs
I still have Birkenstock Boston clogs from the early 2000s, but this braided style is high on my wish list.
FP Collection
Autumn Studded Platform Clogs
Face it: a heel strap is just practical when it comes to backless shoes, especially when you’re taking the stairs.
4. Biker Boots
The Frye Company
Harness 12R Boots
Frye is the gold standard when it comes to moto boots.
ZARA
Flat Buckled Ankle Boots
Zara never gets it wrong.
CHLOÉ
Dakota Buckled Leather Ankle Boots
Fancy a designer pair? You can’t go wrong with Chloé.
5. Burgundy Shoes
Reformation
Gillian Ankle Boots
These boots will look fantastic with anything in your closet.
ZARA
Embossed Leather Slingback Heels Limited Edition
Picture these beauties peeping out of the bottom of your favorite wide-leg trousers.
LEGRES
67 Ruched Leather Loafers
These loafers are so chic.
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