Best branded handbag in India?

Everything we get in the US is now available in India. It might be limited in scale but the same brands carry weight all over the world. In fact, I find my Indian relatives far more up to date and conscious of the latest brands than I am. Your choice will depend on your budget.

$100-250 -- Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Armani Exchange, Dooney and Bourke
$150-450 -- Michael Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Rebecca Minkoff, Emerson Fry
$300-800 -- Tory Burch, Alexander Wang, Some Philip Lim, Some Salvatore Ferragamo, Marc Jacobs, Kors Michael Kors.

Then you have the true luxury brands like, Fendi, Burberry, Balenciaga, Proenza Schouler, Chloe, Miu Miu, Prada, Celine, Valentino, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermes etc etc, that start around $1500 and can go up as far as you can imagine!

All of these brands have high recognition in India. You pick what you want to spend. If you have a sum in mind, I can provide some recommendations.

 

Color, style, utility preferences?

 

The Le Pliage tote is a beloved iconic bag, but I'd be careful buying a nylon bag, unless the recipient is aware of its cult status. I once bought a Coach shoulder bag for my MIL, with the signature Coach print on canvas, leather trims and handle. It DID NOT go down well! She didn't even try to hide her disappointment. She kept touching it and saying, 'oh, it's cloth'. Anything not pure leather is considered cheap, more so if the recipient is older!

OP, I'd look into Michael Kors satchels, like the Hamilton, or the Selma. They are made of good quality saffiano leather, a type of stiff leather that retains its structure, and both bags come in a range of lovely colors. If you go to the outlet store, you can find slightly modified versions of these bags for under $200. Price is even better on sale days or with coupons. If you want a smaller crossbody style, look at the Marc Jacobs Q Mini Natasha bag. I got one in a bright red color for under $200 on sale. Buy from a department store to be sure of authenticity.