The best cult bag brands under $1,000 to shop now

Sure, the allure of a designer bag is undeniable, but with tariffs looming and budgets tightening, their prices can feel increasingly out-of-reach. For those seeking solid designs and quality without the exorbitant cost, the rise of indie bag brands offers a compelling alternative. These emerging labels provide timeless (or on-trend) pieces that remain kind to the wallet, typically ranging from $100 to $1000 – a sweet spot for acquiring an investment-worthy item without overspending. Ahead, a curated list of the cult bag brands capturing everyone’s attention right now.

SONGMONT

The back story: Songmont is a Chinese handbag brand, founded in 2013 by Fu Song, who initially sought to design a stylish and practical laptop bag. The brand’s distinctive heritage stems from its early days, where Fu Song’s mother, Ms. Fu—a skilled artisan—and a team of “Grannies,” or experienced local craftswomen in Shanxi, helped handcraft the first designs, blending Eastern aesthetics with a focus on functionality and user experience.

Today, Songmont is recognized for its refined, mid-priced leather goods like the popular Luna and Tofu bags, embodying a philosophy of humility and enduring craftsmanship. The brand has gained global attention among fashion influencers, models, and editors worldwide. It also stands out for its inclusive campaigns, notably featuring 84-year-old actress Wu Yanzhu as an ambassador, and has been worn by celebrities like Taiwanese actress Nana Ou-Yang and featured in collaborations with actress Jamie Chung, appealing to a wide demographic that values timeless design and quality.

The bag to snag: The Luna bag is one of Songmont’s signature and most sought-after styles. It is a curved shoulder/crossbody bag known for its unique, multi-shape design that allows it to be carried in two different shapes and four ways, making it extremely versatile.

How much: S$337-462 for the Luna, S$899 for the Medium Yore Duffle Bag

Also check out:

Ebony Small Gather Bag Set

Mini Song Bag

POLENE

The backstory: Founded in Paris in 2016 by the Mothay siblings – Antoine, Matthieu, and Elsa, they founded Polene with a vision of minimalist elegance and sculptural craftsmanship. Their signature designs are a masterclass in understated luxury, with unique fluid silhouettes that elevate any outfit. In 2024, the brand’s rising prestige was cemented when a private equity firm under LVMH acquired a stake in the brand, signaling its global influence in the fashion world. 

Polene has been focused on creating bags that showcase its minimalism and creativity and has even been seen on celebrities and style icons, including Kate Middleton, who was spotted carrying Polene’s Numero Dix, solidifying its cult status. 

The bag to snag: Among its most coveted designs is the Numero Dix - a hybrid between a saddlebag and a half-moon silhouette, it offers versatility, effortlessly transitioning between a crossbody and shoulder bag.

How much: US$470-$760 (S$631-$1,021); US$620 (S$833) for the Numero Dix

Where to get: www.polene-paris.com

Also check out:

Numero Neuf Mini leather bag, US$540 (S$696)

Cyme Mini leather tote, US$490 (S$632)

Mokki Mini leather bag, US$660 (S$851)

STUDIO AMELIA

The backstory: Studio Amelia, launched in 2019 by Australian designer Emily Amelia Ignis, is known for its pared-back designs, subtle hardware, and sleek silhouettes. Initially focused on perfecting the minimalist sandal, the brand has since expanded into footwear and accessories that blend luxury with simplicity.

The bag to snag: The Yumi Clutch from the Spring 2025 collection is a standout, with its crescent-shaped, sleek design that effortlessly combines elegance and practicality.

How much: US$327-$550 (S$439-$739); US$379 (S$507) for the Yumi Clutch

Where to get: www.studioamelia.co 

Also check out:

Iris Bucket leather bag, US$388 (S$500)

Helix Mailbox leather clutch, US$395 (US$509)

Alexandra Petite leather pouch, US$418 (S$539)

OPEN YY

The backstory: Open YY, founded in 2020 by Seoul-based sisters Jinyoung and Boyoung Kim, sits at the intersection of streetwear and high fashion. As one of Korea’s emerging brands in women’s streetwear, Open YY challenges traditional fashion norms, offering a fresh approach to dressing that questions conservative standards. The brand tends to focus on designs that incorporate asymmetrical cuts, raw hems, and bold cut-out details.

The bag to snag: The Stud Duffle Bag captures the brand’s rebellious edge, featuring silver-tone studs and a relaxed, slouchy silhouette that combines grunge influences with a modern, sharp aesthetic.

How much: US$129-$351 (S$173-472); US$291 (S$387) for the Stud Duffle Bag

Where to get: www.open-yy.com 

Also check out:

Oil Skin Venti polyester-blend bag, 349,000 won (S$326)

Leather crossbody bag, 189,000 won (S$177)

MARGESHERWOOD

The backstory: Named after a character from The Talented Mr. Ripley – the 1999 psychological thriller known for its luxe Italian backdrop and impeccable 1950s style – South Korean brand Margesherwood blends ‘90s nostalgia with contemporary cool. Founded in 2016 by designers Sungeun Um and Soonyoung Kim, the label draws inspiration from retro aesthetics to craft bags that feel both classic and playfully fresh, bringing a dose of character to the everyday. Known for its versatile designs, the brand ensures that its bags can be carried in multiple ways with simple, thoughtful adjustments, making them as playful as they are practical. 

The bag to snag: The Halter Hobo bag, a slouchy bag that embodies the brand’s signature blend of effortless structure and relaxed elegance. Its minimalist curved silhouette and soft leather finish make it a versatile staple, perfect for both day-to-night dressing as it can be carried over the shoulder, worn in the crook of the arm, or held by hand for a more polished look. 

How much: US$191-$480 (S$257-$639); US$480 (S$639) for the Halter Hobo Large

Where to get: www.margesherwood.com 

Also check out:

Soft Baguette Clear Pocket leather and PVC bag, 329,000 won (S$307)

Grandma Used large leather tote, 468,000 won (S$437)

DUNST

The backstory: Dunst is a contemporary design studio founded in 2019 by a collective of young artists in their 20s and 30s that’s known for clean-cut genderless designs. Classic silhouettes like the shoulder bag are reimagined with soft curves, muted tones, and minimal hardware, resulting in accessories that are both refined and easy to wear.

The bag to snag: With its clean lines and subtle hardware, Dunst’ Classic 28 Leather bag captures the brand’s aesthetic—minimal yet distinctive, structured yet relaxed.

How much: US$87.60-$260 (S$117-$348), US$200 (S$266) for the Classic 28 Leather Bag

Where to get: www.dunststudio.com 

FREJA

The backstory: Freja, founded in 2019 by New York-based Chinese designer Jenny Lei, is a brand focused on minimal, versatile design with a commitment to sustainability and purpose-driven luxury. Inspired by a late-night fashion crisis when Jenny couldn’t find the perfect tote for an important interview, she set out to create something better. Each Freja piece is carefully crafted in small batches, with attention to detail and transparency in pricing.

The bag to note: The Paloma Tote is made from soft vegan leather and features a structured, lightweight design. With a spacious interior and discreet compartments, it’s an ideal everyday bag that seamlessly transitions from work to weekend.Celebrities such as Hailey Bieber and Lila Moss have been seen carrying Freja’s bags, proving that practicality and elegance can go hand in hand. 

How much: US$339-$748 (S$454-$1,002), US$498 (S$667) for the Paloma Tote

Where to get: www.frejanyc.com 

Also check out:

Mini Chrystie Oat leather bag, US$351 (S$453)

Caroline Bag Espresso leather bag, US$351 (S$453)

Hudson leather bag, US$377 (S$486)

STAND OIL

The backstory: Understated yet effortlessly sophisticated, STAND OIL is known for its minimalist yet sculptural silhouettes, offering designs that are visually striking without being loud. Drawing inspiration from the oil medium that preserves the brilliance of paintings over time, the brand is dedicated to crafting timeless, meaningful designs that feel just as fresh years down the line.

The bag to snag: A must have? The Boat bag, an elegant shoulder bag with a sculptural, boat-shaped structure that redefines modern minimalism. Crafted in vegan leather, its streamlined design makes it the perfect go-to for those looking for an everyday bag.

With its growing popularity among celebrities such as Lesserafim’s Yunjin Huh, who wore their Chubby Bag, it’s clear that STAND OIL bags aren’t just accessories, but statements of effortless elegance. 

How much: US$38-$141 (S$51-$189), US$100 (S$133) for the Boat Bag

Where to get: www.standoil.kr 

Also check out:

Mushy nylon bag, 129,000 won (S$121)

This article was originally published in FZINE.