You can easily find the definition of a word like luxury by cracking open a dictionary. However, explaining its meaning within the context of our relationship with fashion is entirely different. Sure, there are the items one would define as luxurious (e.g., a designer handbag), but that's within the lens of how the industry defines it. In truth, definitions of what affluence looks like don't always consider the nuances of each individual's economic means or the priorities of each shopper.
After all, some may consider being able to afford new clothing, much less a trendy handbag, an extravagance. At the same time, others may have to save up for or search for discounts to afford a designer handbag. Whatever the case, it's safe to say that how we define what's "expensive" depends on our own experiences. But even within that tailored lens, there are certain choices any consumer can make to get the most bang for their buck. Beyond investing in pieces that appreciate, one can make an even more straightforward stylistic choice by opting for a brown handbag.
Hear me out: Brown bags always look expensive, no matter their actual price. As with black handbags, this "boring" bag color is timeless and versatile. While it may not be as exciting as a brightly-hued bag, there's something to be said about how this color can come in every shade and silhouette and still look stylish. To prove just how universally lavish this color can be, I scoured the internet to find the best brown handbags. In my humble opinion, these are the cremé de la cremé due to their wearability, price, quality, brand name, and trendiness. Consider this an invitation to redefine your relationship with this color.
Jasmine Bag : BRANDON BLACKWOOD NEW YORK
Brown Crinkle Shoulder Bag : MARGE SHERWOOD
Maze Crossbody Bag in Brown : JW PEI
Melie Bianco Brigitte Large Satchel : ANTHROPOLOGIE
Drop Duffel : CAFUNE
Bios Woven Faux Leather Clutch : THEMOIRÈ
Nia Clutch in Chestnut : CULT GAIA
BRANDON BLACKWOOD NEW YORK
Jasmine Bag
Everything about this Brandon Blackwood bag feels rich— from the polished top-handle shape to the distinct gold hardware and the shiny chocolate brown leather.
MARGE SHERWOOD
Brown Crinkle Shoulder Bag
I don't know about you, but the crinkled detailing on this chocolate brown shoulder bag has me drooling. It's the sort of subtle detail that feels scrumptious.
JW PEI
Maze Crossbody Bag in Brown
I own this bag in a different colorway, and what I love most about it is how incredibly soft the vegan leather is. Plus, the interior is spacious and the bag can be styled as a crossbody or a clutch.
ANTHROPOLOGIE
Melie Bianco Brigitte Large Satchel
Another bag that's been flying off the digital shelves with our readers? This vegan leather woven handbag from Anthropologie. Not only is the price right, but it's stylish to boot.
CAFUNE
Drop Duffel
Everything about this bag is elegant, including the egg-inspired shape, the two-tone hardware, and the soft Italian leather.
THEMOIRÈ
Bios Woven Faux Leather Clutch
I own this clutch in black and dream of buying the tan version daily. What makes this bag one of the best you can buy is that it is made from sustainable faux leather, has a super-spacious interior, and can be styled as a clutch or shoulder bag with a strap.
CULT GAIA
Nia Clutch in Chestnut
Made from leather overlayed with wooden beads, this clutch is arguably one of the most unique brown bags money can buy.