Nice handbag preferably cross body

[Beewea]

I have no idea about style! I saw a Lovely one from Michael Kors but was told by my very stylish younger sister it’s very outdated so I’m put off.

My budget is £500. I’ve never splashed this much on a bag but have been gifted this for a milestone birthday. Could someone please help me pick a nice bag please? I would like a named designer one but also will consider a nice non branded one. I’m in my early 40’s.

Also, Radley gets a kicking on here, but they also make decent quality bags.

I tend to use crossbody bags, with zipped closuers, as I think they're more secure.

I think you need to have a think about what you want to use your bag for - every day or evenings out? what will you be carrying in it? does it need to withstand rain? See what fits these requirements or you'll have another bag you never use.

If you don't need, or really want, a new bag, spend the money on something else which will give you joy.

I bought myself a pair of lab grown diamond earrings with a similar amount and I just love them and I wear them nearly every day.

Maybe for you it would be a great pair of boots, or a cosy wool winter coat - both would last for years.

https://www.furla.com/gb/en/eshop/furla-iride-WB02206ARE00010074905S.html
Furla have some nice bags
https://www.strathberry.com/products/mosaic-bag-dark-chocolate-suede-leather
Or strathberry.
Do you have a particular colour in mind.Do you like slouchy or structured bags

Another vote for the mulberry small Anthony, it’s my absolute work horse, I’ve had it about 3 years so far and still looks new

I also have a Mulberry Anthony in small. I've used it for more than a decade, including stuffing it full, taking it to the beach, using it for dog-walks, and it still looks new.

https://apatchy.co.uk/products/the-maisie-maxi-chocolate-leather-bag?variant=47309748568288

I've just bought this, well under budget but made in Italy and super quality.

I have a strathberry mosaic in dark green. I’m not a bag person but this is lovely and practical

I love my longchamp crossbody bag and there are a few different colours.
https://www.longchamp.com/gb/en/products/crossbody-bag-s-10253HYZM70.html

Coach have a new bag called the Rhyder which is hugely popular. It’s sold out across America but you can still get it here. Comes in small and large, it’s a great bag.