Old Navy's New Handbag Line Starts at $25, But Looks (and Feels) *So* High-End

After all, it's designed by Zac Posen

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While I’ve long been a huge fan of Old Navy, I’m totally here for its big renaissance. The brand has always offered stylish clothing at ultra-affordable price points, but there’s no denying the fact that there’s been a major shift since Zac Posen took over as the creative director of Gap Inc., and by default, now leads the way at Old Navy, Athleta and Banana Republic as well. The designer's appointment has brought about seriously elevated styles within the Gap catalog, and the latest example is Old Navy’s posh new handbag collection, which was designed by Posen himself—and looks *so* much more expensive than its $25 starting price point.

I’m talking pieces like this Carrie tote bag ($35), which already has a 5-star rating for its spacious design and quality, and this preppy shoulder bag ($30) that boasts the most elegant gold hardware. As I've been eyeing them online (and trying to decide which one to add to my own cart), Kate Kesselman, PureWow's senior manager of content, got a chance to test the line IRL, trying out the Carrie tote and other accessories like this Faux-Haircalf belt ($23), and these sleek animal print studded clogs ($37).

While it's abundantly clear that the aesthetics are on point, I was curious about the bags' to-the-touch quality. So, I asked Kesselman for her thoughts.

"What I love about these bags is that there are other accessories that perfectly match. For example, there is a cow belt that is the same texture and print as the cow bag. So you can get well-priced matching accessories for your night out," Kesselman explains. "[They are] also not genuine leather, which is great if you do not like purchasing leather. Even with it not being leather, they have a leather look and feel sturdy," she adds, which is all I needed to hear to start shopping.

After peeping the chic, fall-ready styles ahead, I have a feeling you'll be on board, too.

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Available in faux suede and leather finishes, this luxe-looking tote is an ideal pick for everyday. It has a minimalist design that may very well have just come off the runway, with both a shoulder and crossbody strap secured via a gilded D-ring buckle that allows for adjustability. But how spacious is it, really? At 12 inches tall and 10 inches wide, it can easily hold your iPad or Kindle (or physical paperback), a water bottle, makeup case, granola bar...basically everything you need to head out the door.

Sleek and structured with a total '90s vibe, this little shoulder bag may tempt you in all four of its colors. The silhouette is simple but eye-catching, and it can be easily dressed up or down (though that gold magnetic closure is sure to bring a touch of elegance to even the most casual fits). With enough space for your phone, wallet, keys and lipgloss, it's the perfect pick for hitting the town this fall and beyond.

You can never have too many convertible bags, IMO, and this versatile style hits every mark. Not only is the long crossbody strap adjustable and detachable, but the shorter shoulder strap can also be customized for your most comfortable under-arm fit. The bag also has a zip-top closure that keeps items super secure, which always gives me peace of mind while I'm on the go or at an event.

No, your eyes aren't deceiving you, this is an Old Navy bag—one that effortlessly doubles as a piece of jewelry, no less. From its gilded, "bracelet" handle to its petite size and faux suede construction, everything about it looks so incredibly high-end, so I don't blame you for doing a double take—especially at that price tag.

Posen sure knows how to make a bag, and this bucket bag is another prime example. Aside from its sleek exterior, it boasts a magnetic snap closure to keep your personal belongings locked in, while the strap can be adjusted to your liking. The size is also just right for easy, effortless carrying that won't weigh you down.


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Associate Commerce Strategist

  • Covers all things commerce and entertainment
  • Has over a decade of editorial experience in both fashion and entertainment, and was previously with ONE37pm before joining the PureWow team in March 2024
  • Studied journalism and marketing at Columbus State University in Georgia

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