5 handbags under $500 to have on your radar

I don't want flowers, I want a handbag! Life is short, buy the bag! Balls are to men, what handbags are to women (credit to the OG handbag Queen herself, SJP)!

Who doesn't love the thrill that comes with sporting a new piece of arm candy we call purse, bag, handbag? Even my mother, never the fashionista or concerned with trends and labels, can't resist the temptation and joy a new bag can bring. We all have our weaknesses. Its okay.

Handbags have firmly found their rightful place in our closet staples. How could they not? Function and fashion? Count me in! We all know the powerhouses. Your Chanel's, Hermes, Dior's, Fendi's, and Louis Vuitton's to name only a few. These are all great handbag brands that have earned their place in the luxury market. But times are changing and so are we. If you consider yourself a true lover of handbags you've probably noticed your favorite luxury brands are changing as well. And depending on who you ask, it may not be for the best.

One needn't look far to find a growing sense of dissatisfaction with some of our most favored handbag brands. From declining quality and customer service to price increases that make the housing market blush. Unless that bag can double as an actual closet, you might be questioning exactly why you need to spend $12,000 for your next "it" bag. It seems some are falling out of love with their favorite brands and falling in love with keeping money in their pocket. Who can blame them?

These are uncertain times with many reevaluating the way they spend their money. Others are embracing a scaled back, minimalist style or fully embracing the quiet luxury trend. Some of you may be seeking ways to show your displeasure to the powerhouse brands over price increases. Maybe a less flashy style and branding is more desirable. Or perhaps, you just want something different. Whatever your reason may be, there are many affordable and high quality bag brands that shouldn't be over looked for your next purchase.

These are my top picks of handbags that offer style, quality and that luxury feel you love all for under $500.

1. Polène Neuf - If you're an Emily in Paris fan, you're probably familiar with the brand Polène. If not, time to pay attention. If timeless, understated elegance is what you're looking for this brand is it! The colors are superb, the styles are feminine and classic, the quality rivals those powerhouse brands and the price point is chefs kiss. There's a reason this brand is growing in popularity. Vogue listed the Polène Numero 10 as one of their top 19 bags with the highest resale value for 2023. The brand has recently seen a price increase around $100 across the site. So for those who bought during the early days of the brand, you're now enjoying the increased value. Still, don't let this deter you from checking out the beautiful styles and designs the brand has to offer. All falling under $500. Click here to see the Nuef.

2. DeMellier London The Tokyo - Founded in 2017, DeMellier is another brand bringing steady style and quality at an affordable price. With a wide range of colors and styles there is something for everyone. If you're a royal watcher you've probably seen Kate Middleton carry the Nano Montreal. But there is so much more. If you're a fan of the YSL LE 5 À 7 then you'll love this affordable alternative that sacrifices only the price and never quality. Click here to see The Tokyo.

3. Freja New York The Caroline - Thoughtful bags for modern lifestyles. You can't go wrong with this 90s inspired minimalist handbag. The Caroline bag, which is named after founder Jenny Lei's best friend (aww) is a beautifully sleek and simplistic design that is equal parts retro and modern. The Pecan and Oat colors are just gorgeous! Click here to view The Caroline.

4. Polo Ralph Lauren ID - Ralph Lauren has been a staple in American homes and around the world for over five decades. Known for his classic and preppy menswear styles, Ralph Lauren has solidified his place in the fashion world for his timeless pieces. Ever evolving, he is still creating buzz with the wildly popular Polo ID shoulder bag that embraces its equestrian roots. With a variety of colors and materials ranging from leather to suede to satin there is something for everyone. Click here to view the Polo ID.

5. Marc Jacobs The St. Marc - This bag was inspired by the fall 2016 St. Marc bag featuring the distinctive M shape. Made from luxurious Italian leather this can be carried as a clutch or worn as a crossbody with the removable chain strap. A simple yet classic design you are sure to love for many years. The former creative director for Louis Vuitton has continued to be a mainstay in the fashion world and is frequently seen on the arms of Winona Ryder, Bella Hadid. Kendall Jenner, and more. Click here to view the St. Marc.