A designer handbag levels-up any look. When done well, it adds a touch of sophistication and is an instant outfit-finisher. The top luxury brands know this and price accordingly, making designer handbags out of reach for most shoppers. That doesn’t mean there aren’t great ones out there, though. Mid-level brands offer top-quality leather (and faux leather!) handbags that are smart, stylish and sophisticated at affordable prices, but you have to know what to look for. The devil is in the details, so here are some design and construction tips that will help you pick a winner:

1. Hardware
   Heavy hardware is a design detail that works magic to make any handbag more premium. Either polished or matte, look for gold, silver or gunmetal hardware that has weight and looks sharp. Also look for metal feet on the bottom of the bag — a premium touch always found on luxury handbags.

2. Material
   When it comes to handbag material, keep it simple with a “less is more” aesthetic — matte, smooth and minimal. Authentic animal exotics are a small fortune, so avoid any handbags with embossed crocodile or python material as it will be a dead giveaway it’s a fake. Instead go for a basketweave style for its double thickness, or anything with boxy, stiff construction. Always remember the more structure, the more premium it will look and feel.

3. Color
   For the most expensive look, choose a handbag in your best dark neutral since light and accent colors can easily skew cheap. Keeping it neutral will also allow the most versatile and all-season wear. To add color, tie a scarf to the top handles for a fun and flirty look.

4. Replace
   More affordable handbags don’t last as long as designer ones, so watch closely for the first signs of wear-and-tear. Track the usual scuffs, dents and cracks, as well as rips at the top handles and straps. And as soon as the overall silhouette looks misshapen, it’s time for an upgrade.

5. Authenticity
   Don’t be a fake, or buy a fake. Luxury goods are aspirational, which means they’re something to strive for and work toward. Set a tough goal, work hard to achieve it and then reward yourself with a fancy designer handbag once you cross the finish line. Achieving the goal will build your confidence, plus carrying a real-deal designer handbag will remind you you’re not a fake, either. You earned it.

See BestLineOnline.com press feature here.