IMAGE: BAGAHOLICBOY

Let’s face it. There’s a huge difference between spending less and not spending at all, and because everyone here needs to scratch that itch every once in a while, what needs to be done has to be done. And if you want to scratch that itch but not go way overboard (and of course, certain criteria must still apply), here are 5 designer bags that won’t cost you more than two grand. Yes, you read that right. Just to be clear, they aren’t canvas, they aren’t WOCs (yes, no cheating here) but actual bags you can use on an almost daily basis.

Starting it off would be the Small Monogram Motif Leather Crossbody Bag (SGD1950) from Burberry, one that measures 21 cm by 14.5 cm and opens to an accordion-like compartment that will keep all your essentials neatly in place. A secondary press-stud flap pocket can be found in the interior for added security, while the extra slot on the exterior is great for slotting several bits and bobs easily within reach. Aside from Archive Beige, the bag is also available in Black, and both can be purchased on Burberry’s online store here .

Next up? The Flat Baguette (SGD1690) from Fendi and GG Marmont Mini Round Shoulder Bag (SGD1640) from Gucci which measure 18.5 cm by 11.5 cm and 18.5 cm by 18.5 cm respectively. Both pieces are furnished with the brand’s logo right in front, opening to a single compartment that’s big enough for a good day’s (or night’s) worth of essentials. A noteworthy plus point? They come in multiple colour options for you to choose from. Aside from Black, the Flat Baguette also comes in Brown and Yellow, while Gucci’s perfectly round bag is available in Black, Hibiscus Red and White.

You often hear of bags being down-sized into miniaturised versions and the like, but the interesting bit is that the Heel Bag from Loewe is actually an upsized version of the popular Heel Mini Pouch, with the latter being more of a lanyard/necklace rather than a pouch. For the new season, the Heel Bag (SGD1650) comes decorated with extra leather knots going around its half-moon shaped body, armed with a long strap so it can be carried as a crossbody bag or switched to a belt-bag by attaching it through the loops of your trousers.

Rounding up the lot is the latest hit bag from Saint Laurent, the Kaia Mini Satchel (SGD1900) which is named and fronted by the rising supermodel herself. The logo is simply referred to as the YSL Knocker (reminiscent of the brass knockers hinged onto doors), one that will bob playfully up and down with every step, while the opening mechanism lies in the magnetic snap closure hidden beneath the front flap. The Mini is cute as a button coming in at 15 cm by 14 cm and is currently available in Brown Gold smooth vintage leather.

IMAGE: BAGAHOLICBOY