The 9 Best Shoulder Bags From Editor-Approved Brands — Starting At Just $13

JW PEI is beloved by influencers for its ’90s-inspired shapes, playful designs, and eminently affordable price points — though this Gabbi bag looks like it’d cost several hundred dollars, it’s just about $70 on Amazon. Like all products from the Los Angeles-based, Asian-owned brand, it’s constructed of water-resistant vegan leather and recycled plastic, but it feels as buttery-soft as premium leather. With its cloud-like shape and ruffled strap, this cream bag would add texture and interest to a streamlined, all-white outfit (or literally anything else you’re wearing). This style is available in lavender, too.

• Available colors: 2

This simple tote is a dead ringer for the baguette bags beloved by the likes of Kendall Jenner, though this has the added distinction of costing $20 — a drop in the bucket, considering how much wear you’ll get out of this versatile bag. It’s made of PU leather and finished with a croc embossment; and though it looks nice and slim under your arm, the interior is surprisingly roomy. You have 13 colors and patterns to choose from, including the nude-pink shade featured above — a kicky alternative to white or cream in the summertime.

• Available colors/prints: 13

An updated interpretation of an archival design from the 1970s, the COACH Tabby Bag is another favorite among style insiders, especially in its cushion-bag iteration. But this pebbled-leather version is arguably more timeless, and a bit sleeker. It features the brand’s signature gold hardware and a snap closure, though in a more modernized, compact size. The two straps offer lots of versatility — wear the short shoulder strap for a fresh take on the look, or the longer strap for a convenient, crossbody carry. Or, forgo both and tuck the whole thing under your arm for an editorial look.

• Available colors: 2

Prada perfected the nylon shoulder bag, but if you can’t swing a big purchase right now, add this simple, effortlessly cool bag to your shopping cart next. With its compact frame, sleek silhouette, and athletic nylon construction, this cuts a similar figure for a fraction of the price. The same style is available in five other colors and materials, including an equally relevant cow-print piece made of faux leather. Every style costs less than $20, so why not pick up a few?

• Available colors/prints: 6

STAUD has sustained a firm cult following among the impossibly stylish population (Alexa Chung is a fan) since their launch in 2015; and among their many hits, the Rey Bag has become one of their most iconic styles. The architectural shape is unapologetically modern, though the cognac, croc-embossed cowhide harkens to classic leather goods, striking that tricky balance between trendy and timeless. But there are plenty more styles available on Amazon, like a country club-esque canvas and leather version, or a mini crossbody in white or brown.

• Available colors/styles: Black, Brown, Tawny, Cream Mini Crossbody, Brown Mini Crossbody

There’s something very “David Beckham landing at LAX in 2001” about this adidas tote, a miniaturized version of the brand’s iconic Airliner bag. The croc-embossed finish elevates the functional, athletic silhouette, while that graphic printed logo is nothing short of inspired. Throw on a pair of coordinating adidas track pants, fresh white sneakers, and a bucket hat to go full-on Britpop style.

• Available colors: 1

With its cloud-like shape and cotton candy shade, the Vague bag from Elleme will make any ensemble (and its wearer) a bit more cheery. This voluminous pleated bag is a maximalist’s dream — it pairs naturally with a stack of candy-colored resin rings and anything taffeta or puff-shouldered — though it also adds a touch of humor to an otherwise simple, polished outfit. If you like the shape but prefer a more (relatively) understated aesthetic, see below for more colors. The bag comes in plenty of basics, like taupe and camel, either made of this ultra-soft leather or cowhide.

• Available shades: Camel, Taupe, Light Brown, Black, Shark, Pomelo, Brownie

Among the many recycled trends popping up this year, plush accessories are the most unabashedly ‘90s — this fluffy purse would look equally at home on the shelves of Limited Too circa 1999 as it would a fashion girl’s Instagram circa last night. Which era (and age) you land in is dependent on how you style it, of course: You can easily elevate this playful purse with a slip dress, oversized white blazer, and a pair of square-toed strappy sandals. Opt for a solid or color-blocked hue if this graphic floral print is too cute for your taste.

• Available colors/prints: 26

A budget-conscious alternative to Bottega Veneta’s viral Pouch and Jodie bags, this shoulder bag features that recognizable woven construction, knotted strap, and slouchy-yet-structured shape — all trappings of the ideal spring/summer bag, especially in this crisp white hue. This smaller size is just big enough to fit essentials like your phone, a small wallet or coin purse, and a lip product or two, whereas the large version (listed on the same page) can accommodate extras like a book or tablet. Either way, it’s a true wardrobe staple that takes you easily from day to night.

• Available colors/styles: 10