As much as we love drooling over the best bags of the season, you can’t beat a well-priced basic that can be worn day in, day out. In search of a good work tote? ASOS has a ladylike white satchel that takes a page from the Olivia Pope playbook, while J.Crew offers up a roomy navy hobo for all of your essentials. Looking for some fun weekend cross-bodies? Banana Republic has a sleek navy envelope bag that can convert to a clutch while Madewell makes a rich brown messenger style ideal for travel. And if you just need a practical backpack for the sake of your back, both Kenneth Cole and Matt & Nat have good grown-up versions.
Click ahead to see all of these and other awesome handbag options that clock in well under $300.
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If you have Céline taste but not the budget, this bag has the same modern hardware and sleek leather finish to channel the same vibe.
In Gallic colors that any Yé-Yé girl could appreciate, this graphic bag makes a great contrast to a neutral ensemble.
Interesting details, like the asymmetrical flap on this bag, give the illusion that your bag costs way more than it really does.
At this point, who doesn't want a black bucket bag?
Take it from Olivia Pope, a white bag says, "I fear no stains because I am that perfectly pulled together."
For a bag in a sophisticated neutral shade, try a navy blue one that easily converts between a clutch and a cross-body.
The most affordable bag on this list is also one of the most versatile, with a subway-friendly wristlet for when you have your hands full with bags.
Wear this bag with a white dress on a hot summer day.
Bright red is one of those luxe-looking colors, especially when combined with gold hardware. For a night out you can go extra matchy-matchy by addin...
Bright red is one of those luxe-looking colors, especially when combined with gold hardware. For a night out you can go extra matchy-matchy by adding a red lip.
Braided leather is not just for belts and shoes this season, and looks refreshingly cool when worn in crisp ecru.
Up-and-coming Vancouver designer Erin Templeton knows how to create unfussy bags that don't adhere to any trends. This two-tone neutral clutch can wor... Up-and-coming Vancouver designer Erin Templeton knows how to create unfussy bags that don't adhere to any trends. This two-tone neutral clutch can work for day or night.
In navy leather, this backpack looks grown-up, not schoolgirl, and is a great place to lug your clothes for a weekend away or to the gym.
For a departure from your traditional black bag, try one in oxblood leather with simple gold details — it's just the right size to wear during festiva... For a departure from your traditional black bag, try one in oxblood leather with simple gold details — it's just the right size to wear during festival season.
If you want a bag you can use day-in day-out, you can't go wrong with a classic black satchel.
With just enough room to fit your tablet and planner, this mini-tote is the perfect lightweight accessory to carry your work essentials.
If you're looking for a work bag that looks instantly polished and fits both your lunch and laptop, this is great summery option.
If you're the type to bring extra magazines, water bottles, and other heavy items everywhere you go, a slouchy navy hobo is the way to go.
Lots of travel plans this summer? This compact spin on the messenger bag is the ideal sight-seeing-friendly crossbody with enough room in case you wan... Lots of travel plans this summer? This compact spin on the messenger bag is the ideal sight-seeing-friendly crossbody with enough room in case you want to bring along a camera that isn't your iPhone.
Skagen's mini satchel comes with a detachable shoulder strap and sliding metal hardware so it transforms from a cross-body to a satchel to a clutch — ... Skagen's mini satchel comes with a detachable shoulder strap and sliding metal hardware so it transforms from a cross-body to a satchel to a clutch — ideal for whatever your schedule demands.
Here's an idea for a polished work outfit: this bag, blazer, and kitten heels. So easy and ladylike.
This muted backpack can be worn with both straps on your shoulders, but you can also grasp it by the top handle as if it were a satchel.
When it comes to fancy bags, some designers are delving into unusual shapes. This curved zipper shoulder bag is just as weird at those, if you're look... When it comes to fancy bags, some designers are delving into unusual shapes. This curved zipper shoulder bag is just as weird at those, if you're looking for a version at a lower price point.
A mustard suede satchel is one way to try the 70s trend, though this silhouette can be worn even after you decide to move on from the look.
This bright ombré clutch will pair well with pastel hues or blue jeans.