You know what they say, money doesn’t buy class. And when you have as much class as these celebrities you honestly don’t need a designer bag to prove yourself for any sales associate or business opportunity. The it-girls of this world have proven that style is all about taking risks and having fun, and I like to have fun with a fashion-forward bag on my arm.

While I’ve loved finding designer bags that are worth splurging on throughout the years, I have decided that when it comes to a good night out with my friends—a more affordable option is always the move. I don’t like to have to worry about my bag getting spilled on or lost on a night out. That’s why I love that the majority of my bag collection is composed of mid-tier priced bags that have the celebrity stamp of approval. From new faces like Aupen to an industry classic like Brandon Blackwood—these are the under $500 that you simply need to know about. 

What do Kylie Jenner, Selena Gomez, and Taylor Swift have in common? This bag. Aupen is the bag brand that has quickly taken over every celebrities closet and with the price point remaining under $500—this is a win for the fashion girls. 

Every lowkey girl in New York City seems to own a Dragon Diffusions bag these days. I can barely leave my apartment without spotting on in the West Village and feeling immediately influenced. This brand has been sitting in my cart for a while now and I might just pull the trigger soon.

Brandon Blackwood really isn’t going anywhere and Beyonce herself can vouch for that. She has been wearing his designs on her massive world tour while I simultaneously sport them from home. These are the bags for every woman’s closet.

If you’re looking to embrace “camp” in it’s fullest forms, then you need to know about Puppets and Puppets. Their infamous cookie bag has taken over the street style scene lightning fast and there’s more to come from the brand.

If you like the minimalist, logo-free bags that have people asking where you got it from—you should know about Little Liffner. Their sculptural designs are breathtaking.