As seen on Emily Ratajkowski, Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid, Kylie and Kendall Jenner, a sleek bag has both the power and potential to elevate any outfit. You can throw one over your shoulder with a classic white T-shirt and jeans or pair it with a structured winter coat and expect sartorial success every time. What is Hadid’s must-have minimalist bag of choice, you ask? Miu Miu’s Arcadie tote in black, of course—which she pairs with sophisticated pairs of knee-high boots, fabulous fall jackets, and so much more. (Shop her exact handbag below.) Additionally, because of luxe labels like Toteme and Khaite, as well as more contemporary fashion brands like Reformation and Staud, a pared-down handbag has become somewhat of a status symbol. Sometimes, the more minimalist, the merrier.
On the more splurge side of things, The Row’s N/S Park tote in biscuit was a top choice for spring and summer, but for winter, it’s all about the bright white version. Take styling cues from the Olsen twins, the design duo behind the brand, and wear yours with a cozy cashmere crewneck, shearling jacket, and a pair of tailored trousers. Another outstanding pick comes from Manu Atelier, whose wine-colored Tote du Jour whispers “chic” this winter and well beyond (not to mention it’s also the perfect work bag). With the holiday season fast approaching, patent picks from Saint Laurent and Mansur Gavriel to Neous’ velvet evening bag offer up a festive finishing touch to any party-ready outfit.
Fabulously fit for the end-of-fall, no transitional outfit formula is complete without a statement suede bag from the likes of Banana Republic, Savette, or J.Crew. Then, there are options from the high street that are equally as eye-catching—find these from Cos, Massimo Dutti, Mango, Zara, and more—all of which ring in under the $350 mark.
Here’s to raising the bar on stylish essentials this cold-weather season, starting strong with a minimalist handbag (or two). Below, shop 50 minimalist bags that are forever stylish and perfectly practical.
Craft the chicest minimalist handbag collection—all for under $350. From covetable contemporary brands like St. Agni, Staud, and Reformation to high-street favorites, a new handbag doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you gravitate towards slouchy styles, suede stunners, or the darling LBBs (little black bags!), the below affordable handbag sampling has a little something for everyone.
More Minimalist Handbags (At Every Price):
Interested in the quiet luxury look? From The Row and Loewe to Gucci and Saint Laurent, these minimalist handbags are the ultimate (subtle) status symbol. Highlights include By Malene Birger’s winter white tote, Toteme’s effortlessly chic crossbody, croc-embellished styles from DeMellier and Mansur Gavriel and a suede shoulder bag from Staud. One thing is for sure: These elevated essentials master understated elegance with ease.