Tory Burch vs. YSL: Which brand is better? [2026]

Tory Burch offers accessible luxury with a preppy, bohemian-inspired style, making it a go-to for versatile handbags and everyday wear. In contrast, YSL (Yves Saint Laurent) operates in the high-fashion luxury space, known for its edgy, sophisticated, and provocative designs that come with a significantly higher price tag.

Let's compare these two powerful brands to help you decide which one is the right fit for your personal style and budget.

Tory Burch: The Queen of Accessible Chic

Tory Burch has masterfully carved out a niche in the accessible luxury market by combining a timeless, preppy American aesthetic with bohemian touches. The brand is known for its iconic double 'T' logo medallion, seen everywhere from its bestselling Miller sandals to the popular Kira handbags. It appeals to women who want polished, high-quality, and fashionable pieces that are functional enough for everyday life without venturing into four-figure price points.

• Product mix: A comprehensive lifestyle brand offering handbags, shoes, ready-to-wear clothing, and accessories. Famous for items like the Ella Tote bag, Fleming soft leather bags, and Miller Cloud sandals.
• Price point: Sits comfortably in the affordable luxury range. Handbags typically run from $200 to $600, while shoes are priced between $150 and $500.
• Quality & Materials: Uses genuine leather, durable nylon, and quality hardware. The bags and shoes are designed to withstand daily wear, offering good longevity for their price.
• Fit & Sizing: Generally runs true to size across both its footwear and apparel lines. The brand focuses on creating comfortable, easy-to-wear fits that cater to a broad audience.

Tory Burch is an excellent choice for building a stylish wardrobe with classic, well-made pieces that seamlessly transition from the office to the weekend.

Shop Tory Burch: toryburch.com

YSL: The Icon of Edgy Luxury

Yves Saint Laurent is a legendary French fashion house synonymous with high-octane glamour, modernity, and a rebellious spirit. From pioneering the "Le Smoking" tuxedo for women to its coveted handbags, YSL represents the pinnacle of Parisian chic. The brand targets a fashion-forward audience that wants to make a statement and invests in meticulously crafted, iconic pieces known for their sharp lines and edgy sophistication.

• Product mix: Offers haute couture, ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, and beauty products. YSL is globally recognized for its iconic handbags like the Sac de Jour, Loulou, and Sunset bags.
• Price point: Firmly positioned in the high-luxury market. Handbags typically start around $1,200 and can easily exceed $3,000 for popular models, reflecting their status as investment pieces.
• Quality & Materials: Known for exceptional craftsmanship using premium materials like calfskin leather, suede, and fine textiles. The attention to detail, structured silhouettes, and luxurious hardware are hallmarks of the brand.
• Fit & Sizing: YSL's ready-to-wear and shoes often run slightly small, consistent with European luxury sizing. It's recommended to consult size guides or try pieces on, particularly with tailored items and footwear.

YSL is for the discerning luxury shopper who values boundary-pushing design, impeccable quality, and owning a piece of fashion history.

Shop YSL: ysl.com

Tory Burch vs. YSL Comparison

Price Comparison

The price difference is the most significant factor between these two brands. A popular Tory Burch tote or crossbody bag might cost between $350 and $550. For that same price at YSL, you might be able to purchase a small leather good, like a cardholder or wallet. YSL's handbags start where Tory Burch's pricing ends, with most sought-after styles ranging from $2,000 to $3,500.

This positions Tory Burch as an attainable luxury for daily use, while YSL products are major investments. YSL sales are infrequent, whereas Tory Burch holds seasonal sales that offer significant discounts, making its products even more accessible.

Quality & Materials

Both brands deliver quality consistent with their price points. Tory Burch uses durable leathers and fabrics that are perfect for a daily work-to-weekend handbag. The construction is solid, and products are designed to last through years of regular use. Their focus is on practical luxury - items that look and feel good without requiring delicate handling.

YSL operates at a higher tier of craftsmanship. The brand uses premium Italian leathers, and the construction is meticulous, often featuring hand-finished details. The structure, stitching, and hardware on a YSL bag feel more substantial and refined, which is expected for an item costing several thousand dollars. While both are well-made, YSL's materials and artistry reflect true high-end luxury.

Style & Aesthetic

The brands' styles cater to two very different women. Tory Burch embodies a polished and classic American sportswear aesthetic. Its designs are often colorful, featuring preppy patterns and feminine silhouettes perfect for brunch, vacation, or the office. The vibe is relaxed, effortless, and sophisticated.

YSL's aesthetic is built on Parisian cool - it's edgier, sleeker, and more dramatic. Dominated by black leather, sharp lines, and bold metallic branding, YSL’s designs exude confidence and sensuality. It's the brand you choose for a night out, a major event, or simply when you want your outfit to make a powerful statement.

Fit & Sizing

Shopping for shoes and clothing from Tory Burch is generally straightforward. Their sizing is consistent and follows standard U.S. measurements, a "true-to-size" fit. This makes online shopping relatively low-risk. The cuts are often designed for daily comfort and movement.

YSL follows European luxury sizing standards, which often means items run a half-size or a full-size smaller than their American counterparts. This is especially true for their structured blazers and leather pants. For YSL footwear, particularly pointed-toe styles like the Opyum heels, many customers size up to ensure a comfortable fit.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Tory Burch and YSL are excellent brands, but they serve entirely different needs and shoppers.

Choose Tory Burch if:

• You want a stylish, high-quality designer bag for everyday use for under $1,000.
• Your personal style leans classic, preppy, or bohemian.
• You need versatile and comfortable pieces that work for both the office and weekends.
• You value reliable, true-to-size fitting for easy online shopping.

Choose YSL if:

• You are looking for a high-fashion investment piece that will hold its value.
• Your style is modern, edgy, and sophisticated.
• You want a statement handbag that elevates any outfit and conveys confidence.
• You appreciate the superior feel of a luxury item crafted from the finest materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tory Burch or YSL more expensive?

YSL is significantly more expensive than Tory Burch. YSL is a high-luxury brand with handbags often priced over $2,000, while Tory Burch is an accessible luxury brand with most bags costing between $200 and $600.

Which brand has better quality?

YSL has superior quality in terms of materials and craftsmanship, which is reflected in its high luxury price point. However, Tory Burch offers excellent quality for its price, with durable products designed for everyday wear. The choice depends on whether you seek top-tier artisan construction or practical, long-lasting quality.

Is Tory Burch considered a luxury brand?

Yes, Tory Burch is considered an accessible or affordable luxury brand. It provides a designer experience, quality materials, and a strong brand identity at a price point that is more attainable than high-fashion houses like YSL.

Do YSL bags hold their value?

Classic YSL handbag models, such as the Sac de Jour, Loulou, and Sunset bags, tend to have a strong resale value. Their timeless design and high demand in the pre-owned market make them a solid investment for a luxury piece.

Which brand is better for everyday use?

Tory Burch is generally better for everyday use. Its products are priced more affordably, making them less precious to carry daily, and they are designed with practicality and durability in mind. Styles like the Ella Tote are specifically created for daily essentials.

How does Tory Burch sizing run for shoes?

Tory Burch shoes, including the famous Miller sandals, generally run true to size. Most shoppers can comfortably order their standard size.

What are the most popular Tory Burch and YSL bags?

The most popular items from Tory Burch include the Ella Tote, Fleming Double-Zip Bag, and Kira Chevron Camera Bag. For YSL, the most iconic and popular bags are the Saint Laurent Loulou, the Sac de Jour, the Lou Camera Bag, and the Sunset Monogram bag.

Which brand is better to start a designer collection with?

Tory Burch is an ideal brand to start a designer collection with. It allows you to experience the quality and style of a designer brand at a much more accessible entry point, which makes it a great way to discover your preferences before investing in a high-luxury brand like YSL.