Last year we tried to find the best work bags for women under $100. It wasn’t easy. To qualify, a bag had to have pockets. It had to be big enough for a day’s worth of stuff. It needed to come in a color that would either go with all of your clothing, or clash pleasingly with everything you own. And of course, it had to be non-hideous. At $100, this turns out to be borderline impossible. So this year, we raised the budget to $250. And you know what? While we obviously found a lot more nice-looking, practical bags in that range, we also turned up some hidden gems that are under $100, including a few that cost less than $50. Which is great, because while the Cut loves a truly beautiful luxury handbag, we also believe style should be accessible to everyone.
Read on for to check out our discoveries.
The Bag That Made Us Do a Double-Take
If You Want Something Small, But Not Too Small
The Throwback Bag
Not every ’90s throwback trend is work-appropriate — JNCOs and Skechers, anyone? — but this ’90s-inspired bag is.
If You’re Picky About Leather
A Classic Black Bag
If You Want Something Slightly Trendy
If You Love Everlane
If You’re Into Neutrals
Sleek and minimal to go with your head-to-toe shades of brown.
The Designer Dupe
The Artsy One
The Fun, Bright One
Bright yellow was a surprisingly trendy color on the fall runways and you can get in on the look with this bucket bag.
A Stylish Backpack
If You Need a Big Bag
Measuring at 15.5 inches wide by 13.5 inches high by 8 inches deep, this has more than enough room for everything you’re carrying around. Worried about losing your stuff? Add some pouches for organization.
The Trendy Buy
The Sporty Option
For Madewell Fans
For Phoebe Philo Fans, Part 1
If you loved the Clasp bag, this lady-like top handle purse is very similar and would also make for a lovely interview bag.
For Phoebe Philo Fans, Part 2
And if you were into Philo’s bucket bag, here’s a similar version that’s under $100.
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