5 Kate Spade Bags For Less

Kate Spade handbags are hard not to love. Everything about them is beautiful and charming—except the hefty price tag.

“She is quick, curious, playful, & strong,” reads the printed card that came with the bag I purchased for my graduation gift to myself. The Kate Spade girl is all of these things. She’s also a savvy shopper. Figuring out which handbag styles are worth a high price investment and which styles you’re better off finding a look-alike for comes down to what is most important to you, but there are several things to consider.

Will it go out of style?

If your coveted purse is more high fashion and might go out of style quickly like this cute quilted cross body, you’re probably better off buying a similar bag for less money elsewhere.

Does it fit your need?

It’s important to think about how practical the bag you want will be. Does it zip closed, or is it open? Is it big enough to hold everything you need to carry? Are there nice pockets that will help you organize the bottomless supply of beauty products you keep inside?

Is it a color you’ll carry often?

Neutral bags are a safe bet for investment pieces, since you will be able to carry it with many outfits. Many Kate Spade bags feature interesting colors, like the satchel pictured below in pink. But the more neutral toned version will match more easily and looks more professional with a business casual work wardrobe.

Are you just paying for the brand?

One thing to keep in mind when shopping for luxury branded handbags is whether you are paying for a unique style and the materials or just the designer’s name. For example, a black tote bag is a black tote bag; you can find one almost anywhere. There are many cheap options made of nice materials even if they aren’t real leather. It doesn’t make as much sense to spend over $200 on a simple tote bag as it does on something more styled, so think about what exactly you’re paying for and whether it’s truly a design that’s worth it to you.

Still have to have it?

You can have the real deal at a price that’s friendly toward your wallet. The best way to get a good price on a Kate Spade bag is to shop a surprise sale. I got a $300 bag for $150 during one earlier this summer. Sign up for their email list so you can be notified of surprise sales and you’re less likely to miss a good deal.

You can also find good prices at Nordstrom Rack and department store sales, but the styles are hit-or miss. Check your local Marshalls or TJ Maxx, too. Depending on your area, they may get Kate Spade bags in stock, and they’re likely to have a decent selection of other luxury bags too.

What tips and tricks do you have for finding good deals on designer bags? Tweet us @litdarling or share them with us in the comments below!

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