I'm not a collector by any means, but I enjoy investing in a designer bag every now and then. I set a strict budget for myself before purchasing a new one. Currently, I'm experiencing a serious case of the shopping bug, so I've carefully selected the best designer bags under $500 available at Nordstrom right now. They'll satisfy the craving without overspending.
The retailer's Half-Yearly sale may have ended this week, but the site remains a treasure trove of designer finds. My picks range from reliable laptop bags I've depended on for over a decade to trendier options that I believe will have lasting appeal in your closet. There are Coach bags that come pre-approved by Bella Hadid, suede bags perfect for embracing summer 2025's boho fashion trend, and chic shoulder bags you could easily wear on a night out. I even found a few beaded bags from Staud, Gigi Hadid's go-to in this category.
Keep reading for all my chic (and affordable!) finds. A cute bag is the perfect way to elevate the simplest summer outfits, so take your pick from the 26 editor-approved options below.
This Longchamp tote is my go-to work bag. It's lightweight and spacious, making it the perfect take-everywhere choice.
Coach bags are everywhere at the moment, and this dainty shoulder bag is partly to blame.
Woven bags are my favorite summer style.
Another reason for the Coach social media takeover? Bella Hadid's favorite Brooklyn 39.
I love the enlarged buckle on the side of this petite Staud bag.
You might love Reformation's wedding guest dresses, but I suggest exploring its accessories.
Boho suede bags are summer's most out-of-the-blue accessories. trend.
This woven bag feels very French-girl coded.
Tory Burch is one of my favorite brands right now, and this easy-to-style tote is part of what sparked my love for it initially.
This stylish east-west bag is ideal for wearing both day and night. Additionally, the magnetic closure ensures that your belongings are secure while looking fashionable.
This is an easy, wear-everywhere bucket bag that embodies the quiet luxury vibe many It-girls seek.
The subtle gold detail on this bag from Cult Gaia instantly elevates it.
This newly minted Coach It-bag instantly caught my attention. It makes sense: Bella Hadid is also a fan.
MZ Wallace creates some of the most versatile totes that won’t hurt your shoulder, thanks to the lightweight quilted fabric.
Sustainable brand Cuyana has created one of the best (and most versatile) tote bags on the market. If you love the original Easy Leather Tote but feel it can't accommodate your large computer, it will handle the task.
Don't overlook Kate Spade's handbag collection. This one is so timeless.
If you have all your bag basics covered, consider this fun denim pick.
Or, pick up this girls night out-ready bag.
Associate Commerce Editor Brooke Knappenberger owns (and loves) this Freja New York tote. "It’s big enough for all of my daily essentials and then some (my laptop, water bottle, notebook, makeup, perfume, lunch, and other things)," she says.
You've heard of the viral "lobster" beaded bag, but have you thought about a sardine-style one?
Daisy Edgar-Jones and Bella Hadid love Dune London's affordable bags, and this woven option is so cute.
Jute bags are everywhere, and this LSpace one is my favorite.
For my 2025 brides, this one is for you.
If you like to pack light on a night out, try this chic mini wristlet.
Quiet luxury lovers, this one is calling your name.
This cute '90s-inspired number is a constant go-to in my collection.
