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It’s a question as old as time. Ok, maybe not, but it is a question that’s often asked. How does one spend less than SGD2000 and still walk away with a full leather designer bag? In today’s day and age, it isn’t easy, but there are bright sparks that still abound. And the criteria used to pick these 5?

Besides the price, they had to come in full leather (that pretty much rules out all the coated-canvas bags, or bags with come with the tiniest of leather trims). They also had to be actual bags, not a long wallet on a sling, for example. Lastly, they had to be classic styles that will last a few seasons, even better if they are already icons in their own right, which just means more bang for your buck. It wasn’t easy, but here are the five top picks.

For starters, there is Burberry’s Mini Pocket Bag (SGD1950) that has been a recurring favourite simply because of its versatility. Yes, the leather version might not come with the oversized logos, but this design is pretty much made for the fashionable individual who loves a minimal-looking design that comes with a shoulder sling, and you can pick from colours like Blue Topaz, Juniper Green and Malt Brown, all of which are lovely colours that also scream ‘classic’.

Then there is the classic Trio Bag from Celine (SGD1550) in smooth lambskin, which was one of the first designer bags that featured multiple pouches in one single design. You can unsnap them and use them individually, though it’s best you keep them all together as Celine intended. And as small as it looks, it does pack enough for a good day out.

Moving on, there’s the GG Marmont Matelassé Mini Bag (SGD1540), which has established itself as a go-to favourite of the house. The quilted chevron pattern gives it an added oomph, and the camera bag silhouette is honestly one of the easiest shapes to pull off. Wear it over the shoulder or across the body, the choice is entirely up to you.

Want something that’s more streamlined and less fussy? Then Saint Laurent’s Kaia Mini Satchel (SGD1900) in smooth vintage leather is for you, a simple and effortless design which features the iconic YSL knocker in front and a curvaceous body that works (and looks) best with a crisp white top and a flattering pair of jeans.

Rounding up the selection would be Mansur Gavriel’s bestselling Bucket Bag. It was crowned THE bucket bag of the decade for good reason, and the fact that it inspired numerous others from other brands speaks volumes of the bag’s success. Today, they have streamlined the sizes into Mini Mini (SGD780), Mini (SGD880) and Original (SGD1135), giving you plenty of choices with a shopping budget of SGD2000. You can even buy two at one go in different colours and still be under budget, which is a definite win.

IMAGE: BAGAHOLICBOY