The best places to buy faux leather bags

Why you’ll love it: Net-a-Porter is your one-stop shop for luxury goods, including imitation leather bags that are as good as the real thing.

Luxury online retailer Net-a-Porter might not be the first stop for imitation leather goods, but it should be. If you’ve been planning to invest in a designer bag, there are some stunning options available.

Stella McCartney is likely the most popular designer label, and Net-a-Porter stocks quite a few of her styles. You can find the cult-favorite Falabella range, as well as an oversized perforated tote and a bunch of cute crossbody bags. Other standout offerings include croc-effect faux leather designs from the label Nanushka. Hopefully, the store will add even more vegan brands to its roster as the faux leather trend continues to rise.

Net-a-Porter offers exchanges or returns within 28 days of purchase. Shipping costs and estimates vary depending on your location.

Pros: Luxury imitation leather goods available

Cons: Limited (but ever-changing) selection

Search for faux leather bags on Net-a-Porter here

Why you’ll love it: Amazon carries a ton of faux leather bags that won’t leave a dent in your bank account.

Imitation leather is often (but not always) cheaper than its animal skin counterpart, which is just one reason why some people gravitate toward synthetic materials. But you don’t want to skimp on quality or style solely for an affordable price tag. Amazon carries many brands that specialize in imitation leather.

In addition to established favorites like Matt & Nat and Pixie Mood, the retailer carries excellent but lesser-known brands that are recommended by places like Ethical Elephant. Shop Deaux Lux and Urban Expressions for super-fun, trendy styles and Urban Originals, Melie Bianco, and Marsi Bond for timeless, designer-like pieces.

Amazon, of course, offers fast, free shipping through its Prime program and offers full refunds for new and unopened items within 30 days of delivery.

Pros: Wide selection of affordable bags

Cons: Limited selection from some brands

Shop faux leather bags on Amazon here

Why you’ll love it: Matt & Nat makes gorgeous imitation leather handbags, satchels, backpacks, and wallets that would look great in any office or boardroom setting.

Matt & Nat has a gorgeous collection of handbags, totes, satchels, and backpacks with the polished, professional vibe most people go for at the office. Prices are solidly midrange, with most designs in the $100 to $200 range.

Most of the designs are angular and minimalist, which means they go with just about everything in your wardrobe. It also has fashion-forward styles like belt bags and clear mini satchels, as well as other practical silhouettes briefcases and diaper bags. You can pretty much get your entire bag wardrobe from Matt & Nat. And, the company claims to use 100% vegan leather.

I have a recently discontinued bag from Matt & Nat that I’ve used almost every day since I got it because it looks chic with all my outerwear and fits my 13-inch MacBook.

Matt & Nat's full collection is available on the brand’s website and in stores. Select styles are stocked at other retailers such as Nordstrom and Amazon.

Pros: Wide range of styles, work-friendly designs

Cons: Pricey

Shop faux leather bags from Matt & Nat here

Why you’ll love it: Pixie Mood satisfies your trend-hunting urge with a wide selection of adorable bags in every conceivable style.

We’ve established that fake leather is no longer tacky and/or difficult to find. You don’t have to splurge or stick with dated or boring designs when ditching animal skin. Pixie Mood has an impressive selection of up-to-the-minute designs. In fact, it's a brand that Insider Picks reporter Mara Leighton tested and highly recommends.

Choose from bestsellers like the Nadia crossbody or the Frances tote with its funky exterior pockets. Or, try out a mixed-material clutch like the Nicole pouch. The brand has the perfect mix of going-out handbags and everyday backpacks, satchels, and totes. And like Matt & Nat, the company says it uses vegan leather.

Another cool thing about Pixie Mood: The prices are pretty reasonable, so you can constantly experiment with your look. It’s a great pick for the stylistically adventurous.

Pixie Mood has a full refund policy on non-sale items within 14 days. After that, you are eligible to receive store credit for up to 30 days after purchase, as long as the items are undamaged.

Pros: Easy returns, wide selection of trendy items, affordable prices

Cons: Quality is not as high as pricier brands

Shop faux leather bags from Pixie Mood here