Investment handbag - advice please

[LostAtTheFair]

I have had some good luck recently amd would like to buy a handbag with the proceeds. I'm thinking of a neutral colour (like taupe or grey), leather, and roomy but not too big (I am 5 foot 3 so large bags dwarf me). Ideally I would like something that I can hold in the crook of my arm and which also has a cross body strap, but nothing too boxy (like an old style satchel). I'd like to spend £500 to £700 and I would like to avoid Marc by Marc Jacobs and Michael Kors and DKNY (I already have some of their bags and am looking for something a bit more "premium")

Thanks in advance for any suggestions

I long for a proenza schouler ps1. Perfect bag, although may a bit too ££

Do you like Mulberry- I only ask because some people think it's overpriced. I got a Mulberry Antony for my birthday 2 years ago along with the "french" purse and use both everyday- can fit in makeup essentials, purse, phone, keys with room for few extra bits if needed. I got the smaller version so there will be even more room in the "larger" version (although the girl in the outlet told me it didn't exist )

Worth going to the outlet for a decent saving. If you have anyone in your life with an NUS card take them with you as it will get you another 10% off.

I think Anya Hindmarch Maxi Zip Crossbody ticks all your boxes, so to speak?

Or A bit of Balenciaga?

Sophie Hulme may also be worth a look.

I love my mulberry Antony (cross body strap is the only strap) it's my everyday bag. I have the larger style and Can fit loads in it. Mine is 3yrs old and still looks new. They now have it in a lovely stone colour that I'm eyeing up.
The alexa and Bayswater satchel might also fit the bill.

Yes to the Anya Maxi Zip Mrs Bert Macklin mentioned.

I'm the same height as you and that's my bag - it's utterly perfect and ive used it every day for last six months. I am not bored and don't want another bag. I have the grey.

Laurie, glad to hear it's wearing well. I have the Whistles bag that's inspired by the maxi zip. 2 years in and going strong, but still hankering after the original.

I got mine off EBay in the middle of the night for £230

I think a Mulberry Small Bayswater Satchel would fit the bill and you'd definitely get one 'as new' from one of the consignment websites for that sort of money - or from one of the Mulberry outlets (there are several around the country).

Thanks all - I shall check out those options

I have a Mulberry Bayswater Tote.

A smidge over your budget, but it is the most perfect and practical bag.