I need a new handbag - any shop/website recommendations please.

[NorbertDentressangle]

Disclaimer - if you're a real handbag person this probably isn't the thread for you .....

I'm not into designer names so forget your £1k Mulberry bags, I'm not into bling, I don't like dressy/fancy and I find most handbags look like old lady bags.

I'm after something fairly simple, leather (probably in a dark brown), most likely cross body style and around the £50 mark.

Where do I start looking? The nearest I've found to the sort of thing I like is Fat Face and their Kelveden or Chesterton bags.

Zara or topshop often have nice leather bags in that price range. tk maxx if you don't mind trawling through them

Thanks southeastastra - just had a quick look at Top Shop and Zara websites - it looks like fringes and tassels are in this year! Not my thing I have to admit.

I think I might brave tkMaxx next time I'm in town. I tend to hurry past the bag bit as they seem to have such an array of vibrant colours and bling but I'll seek out the neutrals!

What about M&S? I was impressed by a couple of the bags in there yesterday. Not sure on price though I admit

I saw some lovely John Lewis leather ones recently, they came in a light or dark brown or black. One from their range like this.

Try Peony & Moore, Ri2k or John Lewis own brand/s.

I generally like TK Maxx, but am a bit wary now of bags as I took a bag I thought was leather bought from TK Maxx (60£ vs RRP around £200) for repair recently...turned out to be vinyl & a second (which was why handles split after wearing to need repair...)

Thank you - I'll have a look at those websites tonight after work.

What size of bag? I am also on the lookout for a leather cross-body bag - but I want a big one that I can fit a reasonable amount of stuff in. Although I suppose I could bring the size down a bit if I carry my lunch separately (which is good because sometimes it leaks) and if I leave my make-up in the car.

That Peony and Moore website is much more expensive than £50! Unless you want a very very small bag.

How about Gusti bags? I just got one, cross body, brown leather. Sorry can't link on phone but I got it through Amazon and it was only £34!!

Massimo Dutti have some gorgeous bags on sale at the moment

I've got a couple of Peony & Moore bags, they're gorgeous but indeed more than £50....

Try the website zalando. They do free delivery and returns. Have bought some lovely shoes from them too.

I've recently bought this one from White Stuff. It's light to start with but will hold an iPad or Kindle and a bottle of water easily.