I Get So Many Compliments on These Under-$40 Handbags That Look Quadruple Their Price

Ali Faccenda

October 14, 2023 at 5:00 AM·3 min read

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

They carry all of my essentials with room to spare.

<p>Target / InStyle</p> — Target / InStyle

I’m a self-proclaimed purse snob. I probably own around 25 handbags, and granted, nobody needs that many, but they’re my favorite wardrobe builder since they transform even my most overworn outfits and give them a fresh feel.

<p>InStyle / Allison Faccenda </p> — InStyle / Allison Faccenda

While I love a designer handbag, they’re not always the most budget-friendly. Their steep price alone ultimately jump-started my mission to find high-quality purses at prices that wouldn’t empty out my bank account. I began at Target, which has quickly become my favorite spot to hunt for accessories. While Target is home to thousands of shoppable finds, its handbags are the true hidden gems. The selection of over 1,600 styles is a true treasure trove of fun textures, eye-popping colors, and silhouettes that have earned coveted spots in my closet and received tons of compliments alongside ‘where did you get that?’ inquiries.

Two styles under $40 have become my prized possessions: the Universal Thread Checkered Camera Crossbody Bag and the Mini Top Handle Crossbody Bag from A New Day. Both look quadruple their price tag and are surprisingly spacious, contrary to their miniature size.

Universal Thread Checker Camera Crossbody Bag

$25

I purchased the bags during the same online shopping spree, and since then, I haven’t stopped wearing them. The mini top handle bag has been my go-to for dinner, brunch, and even weddings (I just wore it to one earlier this month). Its silhouette is reminiscent of a cross between the Hermes Birkin and Kelly styles, which initially drew me in when I spotted it on Target’s website. I’m able to fit my digital camera, wallet, hand sanitizer, AirPods, and lip gloss inside, with room to spare for even more small essentials. Shoppers agree, with one calling it “the perfect size” for carrying their must-haves.

A New Day Mini Top Handle Crossbody Bag

$35

The Universal Thread Checker Camera Crossbody Bag has become an everyday staple in my daily outfits, and it’s the perfect companion for running errands. The style is available in seven colors and patterns including my favorite — black checker — as well as solid colors like black and cognac, and even a denim version. I ended up swapping out the original strap for this braided alternative in an eye-popping green neon color, also available at Target.

The lightweight crossbody is arguably just as spacious as the mini top handle style but offers the comfort of a zipper to keep contents secure. One shopper said it even fits their Kindle, while another reviewer shared that it gets them “so many compliments.” A third customer called it a “fantastic purse for traveling.” The checker style is quite popular amongst shoppers since it sold out almost immediately after I snagged it, but I’m happy to report it’s finally back in stock.

Head over to Target to add my favorite bags — the Mini Top Handle Crossbody and Checker Camera Crossbody — to your wardrobe while they’re back in stock. Keep scrolling for other bag styles I have my eye on at Target.