Once upon a time, would-be first-time handbag buyers could save a chunk of change in the low four figures and have a wide range of entry-level handbags within their budget. In fact, prior to the 2020s, we would seasonally round up the best bags under $1,000 or $1,200, and there were a myriad of options.
In 2026, finding a luxury designer bag under even $1,500 is a challenge. Sure, there are options, but they typically include micro bags and/or fabric options, and it often feels impossible to find a good bag that’s less than $3k.
Still, it is possible to snag a luxury designer bag between $1,500 and $2,000—and if you’re in the market for a good entry-level bag that will actually hold your iPhone, is leather, and also won’t break the bank, Saint Laurent is the obvious choice.
Vaccarello has helped grow the brand’s leather goods business, focusing on its modern aesthetic while playing with staple silhouettes and core house codes, such as the Cassandre logo. What Vaccarello continues to do so well, season after season, is hone in on Saint Laurent’s core DNA and target customer, reinvigorating its tried-and-true bags to feel fresh yet distinctly Saint Laurent.
While many of our favorites from Saint Laurent come with that aforementioned hefty price tag, Saint Laurent has mastered the art of a good starter bag. Plus, while so many of our favorite designer brands remain in flux as their new creative directors debut in stores, at Saint Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello continues to shine.
We took some time to sort through every Saint Laurent bag to bring you six options, all under $2,000, that would make the perfect starter bag. Let’s take a look!
Saint Laurent Jamie Pochon
Simple, but oh-so-sleek, if a wear-it-with-everything going-out bag is what you’re looking for in your first bag, this one is perfect. The delicate gold chain adds an elevated appeal, and it’s the perfect size for a night out—iPhone, keys, card case, lippy, rollerball perfume, and you’re good to go!
Saint Laurent Cassandre Pouch
A truly great choice for a chic shoulder bag under $2K, the Cassandre pouch on chain offers a vintage-meets-modern vibe, and we are obsessed.
Saint Laurent Mini Toy Shopping Bag
The shopper’s simple shape makes it among the most affordable bags in a designer lineup, and this holds true at Saint Laurent, too. The embossed croc adds an elevated touch for nighttime wear, too.
Saint Laurent Niki Mini
A starter bag for the cool girls among us, the crinkled leather is so edgy, and the dual functionality of the strap makes this a versatile bag for daily crossbody wear or even shoulder wear.
Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Supple
A fan favorite given a mini makeover, but not too mini to carry your phone and other necessities.
Saint Laurent Lou Camera Bag
A camera bag is one of the most classic entry-level silhouettes! It can easily take you from day to night and offers just the right amount of interior space. The Lou is a Saint Laurent classic that comes in an array of color options.
I love most YSL bags. They’re chic, classy and beautiful.
YSL bags are like the McDonald’s of “luxury.”
That’s an ignorant statement.
If we were discussing the Neverfull, it may have made more sense..
I love the delicate chain detail on the Jamie, I’d definitely purchase, love YSL, always feels you get your moneys worth.