PSA: Almost Everything at Kate Spade Is on Sale for Black Friday, and I Found 8 Handbags to Add to Cart ASAP

Kate Spade’s Gramercy bag may be new to the lineup, but the silhouette is timeless. The petite size totally  evokes the ‘90s era of mini handbags. (Think every purse of Lorelei Gilmore’s.) You can also never go wrong with black and gold—I love the accent with the half-chain spade-accented strap and logo plaque. The handbag is constructed from a soft pebbled leather with a zip closure, interior zip pocket and slip pocket. It’s an ideal going-out bag and can fit up to an iPhone 16 Pro Max, plus your wallet and keys, according to one reviewer. There’s also an adjustable and optional shoulder strap. The Gramercy comes in four colors: black, Parchment (white), Autumn Oak (reddish brown) and Chalk Pink. “This bag is amazing! The leather is thick, soft and high quality,” raves another buyer. “Perfect size for an evening out. Gold detailing is gorgeous. It is classic and current at the same time. I will purchase in an additional color. Definitely a must have!”

ICYMI, the 2010s are creeping back, and slouchy bags totally remind me of the decade. The Knott bag is a popular design with a perfect five-star rating. “Beautiful BEAUTIFUL bag! It is so soft but somehow holds its form well,” one buyer raves. “Plenty of space and compartments inside. Easily holds my large wallet (kept in center zip compartment) day planner, meds, phone, cosmetic bag (to keep lipsticks, glosses, compact, etc. organized). I want another one! Oh and that amazing, new leather smell..chef's kiss!” Available in black and Milk Glass (white), this shoulder bag is crafted from soft pebbled leather while maintaining its shape. Ideal for work, school and running errands when you need to schlep your belongings, but sleek enough to be taken to after-work drinks and Sunday brunch.

The hobo bag is back, and Kate Spade’s Dakota rendition features smooth leather and their updated logo for a modern take on a classic. I love that it’s mid-sized, not too small nor so large that your own frame is swimming in the bag with your belongings. With interior zip and slip pockets, you can hold a continental zip wallet in addition to an iPhone, keys and other sundries. The bag includes an adjustable and optional crossbody strap so you can vary the look. Choose from three colors: Timeless Taupe, black and Cream.

If you want to take a page from Princess Catherine, opt for a top-handle bag. The Phoebe Satchel is a popular Kate Spade design, and is even available in a trendy red tone to complement all the burgundy tones this season. “Absolutely love this cute little bag which I purchased for evening use,” a buyer writes. “It’s compact but big enough for the essentials.” Though petite, the bag doesn’t lack space, with two roomy compartments separated by a divider and secured with a lock closure. It also comes with an optional and adjustable crossbody strap. In addition to Renaissance Rose, the handbag comes in Tiramisu Mousse (caramel).

Personally, I’ve always shopped Kate Spade for the novelty items, which, in my opinion, are what really set the brand apart. Their collaborations are quirky and spunky, kitschy but not cringy. And before you say the novelty shop isn’t practical, take it from one buyer: “I missed out on the last shaggy dog and kicked myself. I am so happy with this purchase. He’s so cute. I get compliments all the time,” they report. I’m personally still hung up over the Magnolia Bakery cupcake purse I desperately wanted in eighth grade but couldn’t convince my mother to buy for me. Now’s my chance for retribution, because this crossbody number is too cute to pass up. It’s also very Thom Browne-coded, an ode to the designer’s iconic (and $2,600) Hector top handle. It’ll fit your phone, card case, keys and lipstick. I plan on adding one to cart ASAP. 

Confession: Most days I actually don’t want to carry a handbag on top of my work bag, grocery sack or laundry tote. While I’m all about shoveling things into my pockets, truth is, a girl doesn’t usually have that many options in that department. Enter: The cardholder. It’s been a lifesaver, personally, and right now, this pretty little number in Kate Spade’s Knott collection is under $50. It’s got six card slots, plus a small billfold and key ring to keep all your essentials together (instead of scrounging at the bottom of whatever massive bag you’re hauling along).

As I’ve shopped this season, I couldn’t help but notice that my favorite brands are all awash in plaid for winter, so this little Hudson number is going to fit right in. (Kate Spade also has a corresponding matching set.) You can never go wrong with the classic flap silhouette, and the cheerful Grand Plaid print makes for a fun everyday bag, while the structure makes it suitable for special occasions, too. Carry it slung over your shoulder or in the crook of your elbow; attach the adjustable crossbody strap to change up the look. The bag will hold an iPhone max and continental wallet, with two interior pockets and a magnetic snap closure.

For the high-fashion gals who don’t want to fork over $6,000 for one bag, Kate Spade’s Knott satchel is running on all cylinders. The shape, textured, pebbled leather, cinched knotted accents, top handles and structure makes this bag a go-to when you’re headed to a formal event, but it can also transform into a crossbody for more casual outings.