Is there anything more classic in the handbag world than a black Chanel? I had admired this bag for years but always felt really guilty about the price tag. Thankfully, I snagged mine for an absolute steal. I went to the Keeks grand opening event in Plano. This was already marked down with it being resale and then they were doing somewhere around 40% off. My girlfriends don’t believe me when I tell them the price, and that’s why you keep those receipts, ladies. To prove you CAN find a Chanel on a budget. ha. 😉

My score of the century aside, I was actually at Nordstrom earlier this week and found something similar. I popped in because I have to get a solid-colored maxi dress for my girlfriend’s wedding. She eloped and so her bridesmaids are going to match for her reception here in Texas. And you know I can’t go in a store without looking at the handbag selection. I found the most beautiful black quilted bag with gold hardware, that I wanted to do a look for less post.

Now, this option is definitely edgier than a Chanel, but for a bag under $250 I think it is fabulous to carry for years and decide if a Chanel is in your future. I always advise girls to try a look for less before you buy the real thing if you are even 1% unsure. I’m not saying go grab a dupe, I’m saying find something with the same structure and similar hardware. Carry it for a year or so and then see if you still get excited. Best case scenario? You learn you love the bag, resale your less expensive bag, and buy your designer dream. Worst case scenario {or honestly maybe best!}? You decide you can live without the pricier bag and you saved yourself money.

This bag is still a luxury bag, it is just more affordable in comparison. Because let’s be real, handbags are total frivolity and it’s all relative to what bags you are looking at. If you are thinking you love this concept but want something more affordable, I have you covered, too! This bag by Topshop is really similar to the other edgy quilted bag. It’s $55 and will still give you a black, quilted look with gold hardware.

As you go into fall, now is the perfect time to try a bag like this! You may think this only works for work wear or dresses, but I love to carry mine with leggings and oversized sweaters. It adds a touch of glam to a more relaxed look. I can’t wait to carry mine with faux leather leggings, a camel sweater, and black booties. A fall style that will always be on trend.

I hope you love these two options as much as I do so you can “try before you buy in a few years” or in many cases just keep your look for less! Quilted bags will never go out of style and you’ll always find them in an array of designers, but something about these options just stuck out to me!

And if you really do want a Chanel, definitely try resale like Keeks!

Do you have a Chanel?! Have a fabulous weekend and we shall chit chat on Monday!