17 Brands Like JW Pei for Chic, Affordable Handbags

Find chic, affordable handbags with brands like JW Pei. Discover minimalist designs and modern styles that elevate your look without breaking the bank.
Written by: 
Ash Read
Last updated: 

It's hard to miss JW Pei's handbags. With their minimalist shapes, modern designs, and surprisingly affordable price tags, they've become a favorite for fashion lovers who want chic, on-trend accessories without the luxury markup.

What makes them stand out is their collection of styles - from structured totes to playful mini bags - often made from vegan leather. If you love their blend of contemporary style, ethical materials, and accessible prices, here are 17 similar brands you need to check out for your next handbag.

1. Danse Lente

Danse Lente is for the person who sees handbags as wearable art. The brand specializes in contemporary bags with bold, architectural aesthetics and unique geometric shapes. Like JW Pei, their look is minimalist and modern, but Danse Lente takes it a step further with truly innovative, statement-making silhouettes.

While the price is a bit higher, typically between $200-$400, these are collectible pieces that feel special. If you want a handbag that sparks conversation, Danse Lente offers a more high-end, artistic take on the modern minimalism you love from JW Pei.

Shop now at www.danselente.com

2. Calao

If you're looking for an affordable, eco-conscious choice with a little more color, Calao is it. Specializing in minimalist purses crafted from vegan leather, their styles focus on clean lines and simple hardware that make them perfect for everyday wear. They share JW Pei's accessible price point, with most bags falling in the $50-$150 range.

Calao’s collection feels a bit more casual and playful, thanks to a fun array of color options. It's the perfect brand for snagging a stylish, sustainable bag that won't break the bank.

Shop now at www.calao.co

3. Matt & Nat

Matt & Nat is a true pioneer in the vegan accessory world. Renowned for their slogan "Live beautifully," they create elegant, minimalist bags from sustainable materials like recycled nylons, cork, and rubber. Their sleek, functional designs have a more refined, classic feel than some of JW Pei’s trend-driven pieces.

Priced between $100-$250, Matt & Nat is perfect if you’re looking for a chic, dependable, and eco-friendly bag that will stand the test of time. It's understatement and ethical production, perfected.

Shop now at mattandnat.com

4. Everlane

Known for its radical transparency and "modern basics," Everlane’s handbag collection centers on timeless design. In their ReNew collection, bags are crafted from recycled materials, featuring simple silhouettes and neutral colors perfect for a capsule wardrobe. Price points are similar to JW Pei, sitting around $100-$200.

While JW Pei captures modern trends, Everlane focuses on enduring styles that you'll wear for years. If you value versatility and sustainability with a classic twist, Everlane is a failsafe choice.

Shop now at www.everlane.com

5. Cuyana

Cuyana lives by the philosophy of "fewer, better things." This means meticulously crafted bags made from high-quality materials like Italian leather and recycled fabrics, designed to last a lifetime. Their aesthetic is pure, timeless sophistication.

At $150-$300, their prices reflect a bigger investment in craftsmanship compared to JW Pei, but they appeal to the same minimalist sensibility. If you love JW Pei's sleek look but are ready to upgrade to an investment piece, Cuyana is the way to go.

Shop now at cuyana.com

6. Nanushka

Budapest-based Nanushka brings a contemporary, high-fashion edge to sustainable design. Their bags, often made from their signature vegan leather, feature interesting knots, soft ruching, and clean, modern shapes. This is JW Pei’s older, more worldly sister. The brand offers chic minimalism with a decidedly sophisticated vibe, perfect for making a quiet statement.

Prices range from about $300-$600, placing it in the affordable luxury category. It's a great option when you're seeking a sustainable style that feels elevated and uniquely elegant.

Shop now at nanushka.com

7. Staud

If JW Pei is minimalistic-chic, Staud is vintage-inspired fun. Staud's handbags are known for their playful energy, bold colors, and unique shapes, like the iconic beaded "Tommy" bag or structured "Shirley" tote. They are the definition of an It-bag that adds a dose of personality to any outfit.

With prices between $150-$350, they're for the fashion lover who enjoys a statement piece. Like JW Pei, they're masters of a viral accessory, but Staud leans into colorful, conversation-starting designs.

Shop now at staud.clothing

8. Apede Mod

Apede Mod bags are defined by their bold colors and unique, sculptural shapes. This New York-based brand balances form and function with designs like geometric clutches and knotted top handles, making them an Instagram favorite. Think of them as the perfect mix of JW Pei’s modern aesthetic and Staud's playful sensibility.

Priced mostly between $200-$400, Apede Mod hits that sweet spot of feeling exciting and trendy while still being well-made. Their bags add an architectural pop to any ensemble and are perfect if you want a bag that stands out in a crowd.

Shop now at apede-mod.com

9. Mansur Gavriel

Mansur Gavriel redefined modern luxury with its cult-favorite bucket bag, known for clean lines and high-quality Italian leather. Their designs are the epitome of understated elegance - no logos, no fuss, just beautiful craftsmanship and rich colors. They share JW Pei's minimalist DNA but exist at a more premium level.

While more of an investment at $300-$500, Mansur Gavriel bags are considered modern classics. It's for the shopper who loves JW Pei's simplicity but is ready for a luxury build quality.

Shop now at www.mansurgavriel.com

10. Charles & Keith

For trendy, incredibly affordable handbags, look no further than Charles & Keith. Operating in a similar on-trend space as JW Pei, they offer a massive variety of styles, from mini bags to versatile shoulder bags, almost all under $150. If you love trying new styles every season, Charles & Keith is your playground.

You'll find minimalist designs alongside more playful pieces with interesting hardware or bold finishes. It's the go-to brand for getting the runway look for less, just like JW Pei.

Shop now at www.charleskeith.com

11. Zara

Zara is a fast-fashion powerhouse for a reason: they are experts at delivering runway-inspired trends at totally irresistible prices. Their handbag collection is no exception, offering a constantly rotating selection of chic styles that capture the moment. You'll find everything from simple crossbody bags to embellished evening clutches, most for under $100.

Like JW Pei, Zara excels at giving you access to the latest trends immediately. The main difference is that Zara’s offerings are built for the current season, not necessarily for years to come.

Shop now at www.zara.com

12. Mango

Mango strikes a brilliant balance between being on-trend and utterly timeless. Their handbags often feature clean lines and classic shapes but with a modern, European twist. Priced similarly to JW Pei at around $50-$150, their accessories feel polished and much more expensive than they are.

Mango gives you the minimalist aesthetic of JW Pei, sometimes infused with a slightly more classic or bohemian touch. It's a great choice for affordable, chic bags that work for both office and weekend brunch.

Shop now at shop.mango.com

13. Coccinelle

Hailing from Italy, Coccinelle is known for its elegant, sophisticated handbags made from high-quality materials. The brand is a master of creating refined staples - think polished totes and timeless shoulder bags - with impeccable craftsmanship that makes them look and feel luxurious.

While the prices, typically $200-$400, are a step up from JW Pei, Coccinelle provides a polished and professional look rooted in classic Italian design. It’s perfect when you need a bag that exudes quiet confidence.

Shop now at www.coccinelle.com

14. & Other Stories

& Other Stories offers a curated collection of handbags that feel both contemporary and distinctly chic. Known for their leather and chrome-free tanned leather options, their designs range from structural, elegant silhouettes to trendy, playful styles. Priced accessibly between $50-$200, it attracts a fashion-savvy crowd.

They echo JW Pei's grasp of trends but with an aesthetic that feels more Parisian-cool. If you love experimenting with interesting textures and modern shapes, you’ll find plenty to desire here.

Shop now at www.stories.com

15. Reformation

Known for vintage-inspired dresses and a strong commitment to sustainability, Reformation also has a fantastic collection of handbags. Much like their clothing, the bags are effortlessly cool, blending a modern, minimalist vibe with a subtle touch of trendy flair. They share JW Pei's eco-conscious spirit, using materials like recycled leather.

Ranging from about $100-$300, Reformation's bags are for the trendsetter who cares about her environmental impact. Their pieces feel like the perfect, slightly edgy complement to a well-curated wardrobe.

Shop now at www.thereformation.com

16. Aeyde

Aeyde is a Berlin-based brand celebrated for its shoes, but its handbags are just as chic. Guided by an ethos of "luxury minus the markup," Aeyde produces high-quality accessories in family-owned Italian workshops. Their style is minimalist and clean, focusing on strong shapes and subtle, thoughtful details.

You can expect prices around $200-$400, reflecting their commitment to craftsmanship. If you adore JW Pei's clean aesthetic but crave a more luxurious feel and construction, Aeyde delivers.

Shop now at aeyde.com

17. Angela Roi

Angela Roi is dedicated to creating ethical, cruelty-free luxury handbags. The brand uses premium vegan leather that beautifully mimics the texture of the real thing, focusing on timeless, elegant designs rather than fleeting trends. Think classic silhouettes like structured totes and sophisticated crossbodies in neutral palettes.

Priced mostly in the $200-$300 range, Angela Roi shares JW Pei's vegan foundations but elevates them with a mature, polished aesthetic. It’s for anyone seeking a sophisticated, animal-friendly purse that looks good and feels good to carry.

Shop now at www.angelaroi.com

At Apart Style, we're obsessed with curating the best in fashion, beauty, and jewelry to help you discover new brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, style, and uniqueness. When you make a purchase through our links, Apart Style may earn a commission - which helps support our small team, and allows us to continue bringing you the best in online style brands.

Looking for more inspiration? Explore our full brand directory or check out our curated brand guides to find your new favorite thing.