The 10 Best Michael Kors Bags
Special Honors
Julie Crocodile Mini Crossbody Made of 100% Nile crocodile hide, this petite purse has you covered when you simply need to take along a phone, a small wallet, and a little makeup. It transitions seamlessly from daytime to evening events, and has a stylish double-ring on the front clasp, which is made with a secure magnetic snap closure. michaelekors.com
Editor's Notes
October 28, 2020:
While many people buy a name-brand handbag as a long-lasting heirloom, others want the newest style every season. For this reason, there are always plenty of updated designs to choose from when shopping for a new purse.
We've added six new beauties to our list this time around, including the Ciara Leather Messenger, which is less expensive than others of its size. Its lower price is due to the fact that it's made partially with PVC, which is just fine for people who don't have to have real leather. The Nouveau Hamilton Satchel is also new to the list; it doesn't have many reviews yet, but that's because the design is so new.
We've included two smaller purses for those who don't need to haul around the kitchen sink: the Women's Phone Crossbody and the Jet Set Crossbody. The Selma Medium Top-Zip Satchel has replaced the Selma Medium Saffiano Satchel because people prefer its zippered closure, which is more secure. The Jet Set Leather Tote has replaced the Jet Set Large Tote because its design looks fresher and its brand marking is less obvious, which appeals to those who want a designer bag for its quality, not to flaunt its logo.
We also updated the information for several items, including the Camden Drawstring, the Bedford Pocket, and the Rhea Backpack. Finally, we've removed the Mercer Tote and the Hamilton Crossbody due to a combination of low ratings and availability issues.
November 12, 2019:
Known for their signature supple leather as well as their high-shine hardware, letter logos, and charms, Michael Kors bags are coveted by many people worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a straight-laced crossbody or tote, a comfy and stylish backpack, or a trendy hobo bag, our list has something for you. We were careful also to include options in a wide price range suitable for all budgets. If none currently match your budget, be sure to open this webpage on your significant other’s computer right around your birthday or the holidays to drop a major hint.
Joining the selection in this update is the Sady Carryall, a roomy shoulder bag that’s sure to keep all of your belongings neatly organized, thanks to its spacious three interior pockets – including a padded one that can comfortably hold most laptops – as well as a slip pocket on the outside. It comes in an array of smart colors, including basic black (of course), two dainty shades of pink (dubbed “Ballet” and “Blossom”), and a deep, rich red (called “Merlot). In addition to these, you can choose one made of canvas material bearing the MK logo throughout, along with leather handles and trim. No matter which color or pattern you choose, they all feature a secure zip-top closure and a sturdy flat bottom that stands on its own.
If you’re after a high-end backpack in particular, check out our list that ranks the best designer backpacks.
Designer Fashion At A Retail Price
However, their most popular accessories continue to be the unique handbags that they create.
A Michael Kors bag is a coveted designer bag that is slightly more expensive than the average purse. You might recognize the names of some of the brand’s top competitors: Kate Spade, Coach, and Louis Vuitton. Even though the brand has been around since 1981, it has recently surged in popularity among teen girls.
Michael Kors has 288 retail stores in North America according to the last count in March 2014. They have 117 international retail stores located in Europe and Japan.
The Michael Kors brand is known for designing a wide range of fashion accessories including watches. However, their most popular accessories continue to be the unique handbags that they create. While they lean toward a simplistic style, the accessories and accents woven into each design make each bag as unique as the last.
The designs are often understated while remaining functional and stylish with their own pinch of flair. The bags are durable and come in a wide range of sizes from crossbody to clutches to large travel satchels.
Although somewhat understated, the Michael Kors design values diverse styles. Some bags are created in neutral colors with a vintage look while others pop and demand attention with modern creativity. Their versatility makes them excellent choices for a day at the office or a night on the town. They are easy to carry with many having multiple carry options. They will hold up to daily use for years, and many come with compartments and pockets for extra storage and convenience.
There have been many Michael Kors counterfeits over the years, but none of them have come close to the quality of bags that the brand produces. While Coach bags seems to have dominated the last decade, Michael Kors are fast becoming the coveted designer bags.
Don't Be Fooled By Imitators
It's easy to feel overwhelmed when shopping for your first designer handbag. Even seasoned shoppers are sometimes duped by counterfeit or overpriced items. When shopping for a Michael Kors handbag, there are several factors you should keep in mind.
One or all of these items will be found somewhere on every single bag.
First, know what materials make an authentic Michael Kors handbag. Obviously, not all bags are made the same, but all of their bags are certainly made from high-quality materials. Michael Kors has built its reputation on producing bags from durable materials such as leather, suede, metallic saffiano, denim, fur, fabric, straw, and even python-embossed leather. If the handbag is not made from a high-quality material, it is not Michael Kors.
Second, before you purchase your Michael Kors handbag, take a quick peek at the care instructions. In general, they should be kept away from excessive sun exposure and extreme heat and humidity. Leather handbags will require special care, and the company recommends using their rain and stain repellent on a regular basis. This will not only provide protection from water damage, but it will also help the bag to repel other dirt and debris.
Third, learn how to identify an authentic Michael Kors handbag. Unless you are buying directly from the company itself, it can be easy to be duped and inadvertently purchase a bag of sub-par quality. Keep in mind that every authentic Michael Kors bag has accents, clasps, or square buckles. One or all of these items will be found somewhere on every single bag. A metallic MK logo is often clearly visible. When in doubt, it is sometimes helpful to check the retailer website and take a peek at the original bag so you can more easily spot any apparent differences.
Even when you purchase a Michael Kors bag made from cheaper materials such as fabric or canvas, you will still receive the same high-quality design found with all of the brand’s bags. If you care for your bag properly, it will last you through multiple uses and seasons.
A Brief History of the Michael Kors Bag
The Michael Kors label was established in 1981 as a women’s collection by none other than designer Michael Kors himself. Kors was born as Karl Anderson Jr. on Long Island, New York in 1959. He dropped out of the Fashion Institute of Technology after only two semesters, but that obviously didn’t stop him from pursuing his goals.
Each year from 2005 to 2008, he was nominated as the CFDA Accessories Designer of the Year.
From childhood, Kors was involved in the fashion industry, posing in national product campaigns from his toddler years and beyond. By the time of his label launch, Michael Kors had already established a significant reputation for unique and high-quality designs. His label launched in some of the most high-end retail stores in New York City including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, and Bergdorf Goodman.
In 1983, Michael Kors received the First American Original Award from Dupont. By 1995, he was awarded the Elle/Cadillac Fashion Award for excellence. Kors didn’t stop there and continued his success by being named part of the “New Establishment” by Vogue magazine in 1996. He soon launched a men’s line and a line of new women’s fragrances.
In 2001, Kors added popular accessories such as handbags, belts, and eyewear to his already well-established fashion line. Each year from 2005 to 2008, he was nominated as the CFDA Accessories Designer of the Year. In 2010, the line expanded to Japan, and Michael Kors became the youngest recipient of the Geoffrey Beene award.
While the Michael Kors brand did not get its start in handbags and continues to sell other high-quality products to a wide range of satisfied consumers, the handbags are some of the most coveted by the average consumer and celebrities alike.