Almost 50/Want to buy 1st designer bag

[OogleAtLuxury]

I’m in my late 40’s and don’t own a single high end designer bag I’m a jeans, tshirt/sweater, and sneakers kind of gal when I’m not working. Looking for something that can be dressed up or down and goes with a slightly grungy (?) vibe. Does that even exist?

If I was going to buy just one bag for $2-$4k, I'd go for something in leather that was solid black. I'd want it to be comfortable to wear for long periods of time as well. I'd also want it to have versatility, with a detachable shoulder strap to wear crossbody. My favorite bag like that is my Coach Kelsey bag from the outlet (which I got on Poshmark for $25 ).

Assuming you want a mid-capacity bag (e.g., can hold your SLGs as well as a water bottle, sunglasses, umbrella) I'd maybe go with something like the:
1) Coach Cassie: https://www.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/coach-cassie-leather-crossbody?ID=3310707 (or the vintage version - the Coach Court. Old Coach leather is indestructable)
2) This is similar in shape to my Coach Kelsey: https://www.saksfifthavenue.com/prada-daino-leather-top-zip-tote/product/0400010886812
3) The Louis Vuitton Sienna bag is, in my opinion, a very practical shape. However, I don't think that LV canvas can really be dressed up for a formal night out, but if you found something in a similar shape, that might also be nice!

 

[kbell]

I also like this all black LV Twist MM. But we don’t know what size/type you’re looking for so we’re all probably just going to post bags that WE like lol.

 

[serenityneow]

Very exciting! You won't regret it. Of the suggestions so far, I really like the Hermes Halzan. I've tried it on and it is a wonderful, go-everywhere bag. Here are some additional ideas:

Fendi Selleria Lei
Fendi Selleria Anna
Loewe Puzzle
The Row Hunting Bag (9 or 11)
The Row Sidekick Two

 

[Gyopomom]

Hermes Birkin 35, 30 cm or Garden Party 36 or 30 cm or Hermes Hac 32 cm. Hermes Kelly 32, 35 cm, is an excellent choice as well. If you are a crossbody bag person Hermes Halzan 31cm. All go well with your description, and they would be my choice. I am almost 60 and find these bags understated and elegant, and they will be a classic for years to come.

Never even considered Hermes (way out of my price range) but I am kind of LOVING the Halzac. Thank you for your suggestion. Now to make some $$$

 

[Gyopomom]

Hand carried? Shoulder? Crossbody? Size?

Honestly, I don’t know. I’m wondering if I should just splurge on a special occasion clutch/evening bag or an everyday crossbody. Looking at all my options

 

[Gyopomom]

I’m not an Hermes gal but I’m pretty sure Birkins & Kellys are out of the OPs posted price range and I absolutely do not think ones first designer bag should be second hand with a 2-4K budget to spend. That amount can get you a fabulous brand new designer bag.

I’d not say no to a bargain

 

[Purseloco]

Never even considered Hermes (way out of my price range) but I am kind of LOVING the Halzac. Thank you for your suggestion. Now to make some $$$

There is a lot of pre-loved on the market. Never say Never.

 

[vesna]

I’m in my late 40’s and don’t own a single high end designer bag I’m a jeans, tshirt/sweater, and sneakers kind of gal when I’m not working. Looking for something that can be dressed up or down and goes with a slightly grungy (?) vibe. Does that even exist?

Yes ! In the same boat, similar age, I am older, still wearing just chucks and doc martens, but I carry great bags with grunge stuff ....... YSL is my preferred , lady-like Muse ll .....here is a photo of me with YSL downtown and silver docs ( I have them in so many colours) and purple Bal and purple docs....actually here are photos of docs and purses

Two Miu Miu and two Yves Saint Laurent

 

[vesna]

More docs and purses
Balenciaga work, YSL downtown and besace nubuck

 

[vesna]

And more

Miu Miu , Fendi and Miu Miu

 

[vesna]

Blue bags Miu Miu aviator and YSL Muse Il

 

[Gyopomom]

I’m not an Hermes gal but I’m pretty sure Birkins & Kellys are out of the OPs posted price range and I absolutely do not think ones first designer bag should be second hand with a 2-4K budget to spend. That amount can get you a fabulous brand new designer bag.

A Chanel reissue would be PERFECT. Goes with everything!

Looked into the reissue and it isn’t available in stores, right?

 

[ladysarah]

I’m in my late 40’s and don’t own a single high end designer bag I’m a jeans, tshirt/sweater, and sneakers kind of gal when I’m not working. Looking for something that can be dressed up or down and goes with a slightly grungy (?) vibe. Does that even exist?

that is so exciting!!! I agree with @7h5f921 suggestion. Why don’t you take a look and post some photos of items you like. I think handling them in person is crucial because quality feels different and doesn’t always photograph well.
Edited to add: if you are in London yes do visit places like selfridges or liberty’s and check a variety of designs. Some may not be well known but still very beautiful and excellent quality. I also have to agree with poster who said that Hermes is not always the answer

 

[Deleted 698298]

I’m in my late 40’s and don’t own a single high end designer bag I’m a jeans, tshirt/sweater, and sneakers kind of gal when I’m not working. Looking for something that can be dressed up or down and goes with a slightly grungy (?) vibe. Does that even exist?

How about Givenchy Pandora, Balenciaga City/Bazaar, Stella McCartney Falabella, or something by Alexander Wang? (Sorry I didn’t go through the whole thread so no idea if this was mentioned already)

 

[IntheOcean]

More docs and purses
Balenciaga work, YSL downtown and besace nubuck

I LOVE your black Miu Miu and the Muse. Gorgeous bags.