I recently found new brand (to me) called Milli Millu. They have great looking leather bags manufactured in Spain with materials from Spain and Italy. They come in an array of gorgeous colors. They don't have a U.S. website, but international orders over 200 pounds (sorry, not sure of conversion rate) ship free. They are in the Brahmin price range. Since I don't own one I can't speak to the quality.
Also, Longchamp (my personal fave in this price range) is very French-chic. You DO see them quite often, but queens and the Duchess of Cambridge also carry them. They're perfect for travel and I feel like they are affordable luxury. Their leather bags are much higher priced than the serviceable nylon/leather Le Pliage, but you can't beat anything in this brand for quality/value/style. They are a family owned business. They use the same leather and tanneries as Hermes and Louis Vuitton. I used one in high school/college as my school bag. Now I use the Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag (in black nylon) as my personal item when flying. It's lightweight and can hold my neck pillow, 3-1-1 bag, make up bag, a small leather crossbody, passport/card wallet, snacks, water bottle, IPad Pro, cords and chargers, and other inflight essentials (while still meeting United's size guidelines for personal items!). I think that bag only retailed for around $250. It folds down to the size of a largish sized book when I'm not using it. PLUS their bags come in many colors and patterns! Highly recommend!!
I first started my 'grown-up' handbag collection with Brahmins before branching out to the more high end designers. Brahmins used to be really well made, but I feel like the quality isn't what it used to be. Like you, I am now seeing Brahmin bags everywhere, though not quite as often as MK. I have bags in both brands that have stood the test of time, and I still love wearing them, but they really are EVERYWHERE.