If you're a fashion lover who's been on TikTok or Instagram over the past year, chances are you've seen the buzz surrounding Walmart bags. The retailer's trendy totes have made their mark on social media — and their most compelling feature is their affordability.
To help us navigate Walmart's handbag section, we turned to Samantha Brown, a New York-based celebrity stylist and author of “Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale," as well as Christina Stein, an image consultant and CEO of Life & Style by Christina. The pair gave us the lowdown on all things purses and shared advice on how to score a quality bag for less.
Below, we rounded up the hottest expert-approved and editor-tested bags — starting at just $11! Keep scrolling to shop Walmart handbags from top brands like Michael Kors, Time and Tru, Coach and many more.
Can you get a quality bag for less?
According to Stein, you don't need to spend a fortune to find a top-notch bag. "Price doesn’t always equal quality,” she insists. “A lot of companies are replacing leather and hardware details with lower quality in order to keep their costs down but their profit up,” Stein adds.
On the other hand, Brown recommends spending a bit more on a purse if your main priority is quality. "In my experience, investing a little bit more in a bag typically translates to better quality, like natural materials, better stitching and construction and higher quality hardware," she says.
"I typically encourage my clients to invest a bit more in better quality and better design — quality over quantity!" explains Brown.
However, if you're constantly switching purses and prefer to have a variety on hand, Brown says a large quantity of inexpensive bags may be the way to go. "When opting to participate in a trend that might not have staying power, finding a more affordable option is a great way to look modern and update your wardrobe," she suggests.
Regardless of price, it is important that your handbag reflects your personality and lifestyle. “Whether you’re looking to invest or just looking for something to add to your wardrobe, make sure it’s fitting your style and your life before you buy!” advises Stein.
The best Walmart bags to shop, according to editors
If you’re looking to go hands-free, this crossbody from Michael Kors is a no brainer. Previously seen on TODAY, the bestselling bag is both fashionable and functional with gold-tone hardware and an adjustable shoulder strap.
This leather crossbody from Michael Kors was featured on the show and has a near-perfect overall rating on Walmart's website. With over 30 fun colors to choose from, this easy-to-wear pick is one you can take everywhere this season.
Also seen on TODAY, this everyday bag from Michael Kors is a classic you can purchase once and continue turning to time and time again. Featuring a comfortable drop handle and two front zip pockets for easy access, this bag is a perfection option for running errands, heading to brunch and more. Still looking for another reason to buy? It's under 100 bucks!
More affordable Walmart bags to shop
This is a classic that’s worth the investment — if you can even call $11 an “investment.” It mixes elegance with practicality, allowing you to carry it by hand to an evening event or throw it over your shoulder during the day. And since it's black you can wear it with anything.
Want to pack a punch with texture rather than color? Opt for this of-the-moment woven pick, which rings in at just $12 and boasts a removable crossbody strap.
Beach season is upon us so now’s the time to score the ideal bag for days spent in the sand (or by the pool). This under-$25 option is available in two colors and can be used as a purse, too!
The thicker straps are the perfect size for hauling all of your belongings on vacation — without digging into your shoulders. Made from a raffia material, this tote makes the ideal beach bag or personal item for travel. It comes in a playful lemon pattern, too.
Since they’re so easy to wash, firm plastic bags like this one are super practical during summer. That said, they often run a steep price tag. Not the case with this $20 option! Better yet, it comes in 16 colors.
This bucket bag will hold all of your daily essentials while elevating your look. With gold-tone hardware, a snap closure and adjustable strap, it’s both practical and pretty.
This stylish hobo bag hits all of the marks for us. The brand sells the bag in 25 colors including neutrals like beige, camel, coffee and navy — plus, bright colors like hot pink, blue and green.
This hobo bag can hold everything from your favorite lip gloss to designer shades. With over 20 different color options, it’s up to you whether to invest in a statement piece or everyday style. Either way, we’re confident the brand’s vegan leather is durable enough to withstand the test of time.
For a luxe evening clutch, this Coach wristlet is our pick! Classic black is a versatile but but for summer, there are also a couple of colorful hues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Naina Singla, a fashion stylist and style expert, previously told Shop TODAY that the quality of a leather tote is important. “You want a bag that is high quality and made from leather. It will feel softer and age better over time,” she says.
How we chose the best Walmart bags
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best Walmart bags by enlisting the recommendations of an image consultant and stylist. We also included a few tried-and-true editor favorites that aired in our TODAY broadcast segments and relied on our personal experiences with the brands included.
Meet the experts
- Samantha Brown is a New York-based celebrity stylist and author of Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale”
- Christina Stein is an image consultant, life coach and CEO of Life & Style by Christina.
- Naina Singla is a fashion stylist and style expert. She specializes in curating capsule wardrobes focused on simplicity and versatility.
