Best quality bag/brand $500 and under

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I think Longchamp got pretty basic handbags under $500 and not mention a very good quality. When I was younger I don't like the design of Longchamp, I thought it was boring or very uninspiring. Now when I look at Le Pliage I see its has clean good simple design, definitely a classic that every "handbag enthusiast" should have in his/her collection and practical.
 
I rotate my bags so often (well, I try to) that I don't have any that I've carried for months on end to see how they hold up with heavy use, but I definitely inspect all my bags for stitching or other flaws when I first get them. Based on that, and also the feel of the leather (you can just feel quality sometimes, you know?) I would say my MbMJ or Coach bags are the best quality in that price range. I also have a pre-loved Dooney from the 80's that my aunt gave me, she definitely used it a lot and it still looks great, no loose threads or anything coming apart. Also, a coworker of mine uses her Kate Spade bag every day and it looks good still. Let us know what you get!
 
I think Cedar Maise is good quality and best designer bag.The Cedar Street Maise is a great example of designer bags under $500. This leather bag is the perfect size! It’s long enough to fit all your necessary items but isn’t too wide that the bag will lose its shape or looks empty. Plus, the Maise bag comes with both straps and a detachable long handle so you can wear this bag several different ways.
 
I have no doubts about recommending Le Tanneur, Coccinelle and Furla

All are generations old companies, use great leather and materials and wear well
 
I have a lot of bags but my RM bags look good as long as I rotate them or my LAMB bags. Also, old school Treesje or Linea Pelle bags are great quality leather bags. The leather on the Linea Pelle bags hold up for a long time and the bags are versatile.
 
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It's not a designer bag, but my Jack Georges' tote (big enough to store a 15' laptop) has been my trusty workhorse since 2009. I take it everywhere with me for overseas work-related travel. It has been thrown onto the back of trucks, airport security, endured torrential rain numerous times and despite all the maltreatment, it is still alive and well. The leather is pretty scratch resistant and the shoulder straps are wide and comfortable (I can't stand women's bags which are supposed to hold laptops but come with skinny straps - they are so uncomfortable and offer minimal support).

I'll probably need to replace it soon, but it has been my constant travel companion, it'll be sad to let it go.
 
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