The best Gucci handbag look-alike

Love Gucci handbags? Try these stylish look-alikes!

Gucci handbags are among the most desired in the world. These pieces are sought after partly because they’re a status symbol, but Gucci purses are also well-made. They’re constructed of high-quality materials using fine craftsmanship. Unfortunately, these characteristics plus a high demand mean that a Gucci handbag can cost you from about $1,800 to upward of $2,000.

If you don’t have thousands of dollars to spend on a handbag, you might consider a Gucci handbag look-alike. Some are virtually indistinguishable from the real deal by the average person. The Fossil Ryder Leather Medium Satchel is one good example. This handbag’s supple glazed leather, Old English brass-tone hardware and a streamlined silhouette resemble the aesthetic of a classic Gucci purse.

What to know before you buy a Gucci handbag look-alike

Style preferences

Chances are appearance is important to you if you’re seeking a handbag that resembles one made by Gucci. For this reason, you should carefully consider the style you favor. Options include shoulder bags, satchels, totes, hobo bags and crossbody bags. Each style has a distinctly different look, so personal taste definitely plays a key role in selecting a bag that’s perfect for you.

Label recognition

You might not care if people recognize you’re not carrying a genuine Gucci handbag, or you might not want anyone to know. If you fall into the latter category, it’s best to choose a bag that doesn’t have any lettering with the brand name monogrammed on the fabric or etched into any of the hardware. Some designer bags feature logo charms you can remove.

Space

A beautiful purse certainly makes a fashionable statement, but even the most stylish handbags can get old if you can’t fit everything you need in them. Take the amount of storage space into account when shopping for a Gucci handbag look-alike. Make sure all bags have adequate storage space. One item that comes in handy and easily fits into most handbags is makeup remover cloths.

Gucci handbag look-alike features

Design details

Compare any handbags you’re considering to similar styles at Gucci. In addition to quality, make sure they feature design details that are identical to or closely resemble their Gucci counterparts. Design details include silhouette, lines, closures, straps and patterns.

Material

Gucci is known for the high-quality materials it uses. Look for handbags constructed of materials like fine leather. It’s best to avoid cheap leather, as it’s unlikely to replicate the look of the leather Gucci uses. Full-grain leather is considered the best, but top grain leather is most often used for high-end leather goods.

Color

Gucci designers tend to incorporate simple color schemes. They’re typically minimal — color blocking is a technique used in some Gucci bags. The company also seems to favor neutrals over bright colors, although there are a few purses that feature rich, bold hues.

Gucci handbag look-alike cost

Since Gucci handbags are high-end, you’ll pay a decent price for a purse that replicates them. In general, expect to pay anywhere from $225-$800 for a Gucci handbag look-alike. While this is definitely a significant amount of money, it’s affordable when compared to the several thousands of dollars that most Gucci bags cost.

Gucci handbag look-alike FAQ

What are the characteristics of Gucci handbags?

A. There are distinct reasons why Gucci handbags are coveted by fashion-minded people all over the world. It’s an established brand that’s well-known for the craftsmanship that goes into creating the company’s handbags. Gucci bags aren’t produced by factories, which accounts for the attention to detail and fine craftsmanship. The materials used are all high-quality. Since there are less handbags available due to the manufacturing process, demand is typically higher than supply.

How can you recognize a high-quality Gucci handbag look-alike?

A. In addition to high-quality materials and good craftsmanship, traits of Gucci bags include pared-down design details, neutral colors and an overall sophisticated style.

Which Gucci handbag look-alike should I get?

Best of the best Gucci handbag look-alike

Fossil Ryder Leather Medium Satchel: available at Macy’s

Our take: Constructed of smoothed glazed leather, the curved line of the base and vertical strap detail in the front resembles the look of Gucci bags like the Jackie 1961.

What we like: Constructed of glazed leather, this handbag is soft to the touch. The satchel features Old English brass-tone exterior hardware that creates a sophisticated aesthetic. Since the style of this purse is understated and classic, it’s suitable for everyday use. Three roomy compartments and two expandable gusseted side pockets provide ample storage space. You can carry this satchel by the handles or with the long, detachable strap.

What we dislike: The handbag received complaints that centered on quality control issues like chipped hardware, scratched leather and a handle that ripped.

Best bang for your buck Gucci handbag look-alike

MICHAEL Michael Kors Jade Large Gusset Leather Shoulder Bag: available at Macy’s

Our take: This bag has a petite, streamlined profile and is available in a color scheme that incorporates soft candy colors ? both traits similar to Gucci’s Horsebit 1955 small shoulder bag and GG Marmont mini top handle bag.

What we like: Despite its large size, the Jade Gusset Leather Shoulder Bag has a compact profile that gives it a minimal look. This purse isn’t just a handbag you throw on with your ensembles; it’s a statement piece that elevates them. Since this handbag is available in soft pink, optic white and black, you’ll find a shade you like regardless of whether you favor color or basic neutrals. Gold-tone hardware creates a beautiful contrast. You’ll get plenty of storage space from the center zip pocket, six interior credit card pockets and two interior slip pockets. The purse secures via a magnetic snap closure, creating a glamorous effect that evokes Old Hollywood.

What we dislike: Some buyers felt the handbag was too small for daily use, while others were disappointed when it arrived without the included dust bag.

Honorable mention Gucci handbag look-alike

MICHAEL Michael Kors Voyager Medium Crossgrain Leather Tote: available at Macy’s

Our take: Resembling the Ophidia medium tote from Gucci in its size and traditional lines, this cross-grain leather tote has what it takes to become your go-to handbag.

What we like: With storage space that includes a padded zippered tablet compartment, a second interior zippered compartment and nine slip pockets, this tote bag is equipped to carry your essentials. In addition to its superior functionality, this high-quality handbag has a classic design and silver- or gold-tone hardware that make it a lovely piece to carry daily. Textured leather adds interest without going overboard. The tote bag is available in pearl grey, admiral, soft pink and acorn.

What we dislike: A handful of buyers complained about the quality of the bag, citing issues that included poor-quality leather and a deformed spot on the exterior.

Megan Oster is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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