A designer handbag is and will always be the ultimate covetable piece on our wish lists, but unfortunately we don't all have the budgets for a brand new luxury tote.
Unfortunately, especially in the run-up to Christmas, treat-yourself-Thursdays can be replaced with beans on toast, so getting an extra special holdall for the holiday season might seem like a pipe dream.
Luckily, we've found one boutique in particular that's serving up a series of affordable luxury bags at a fraction of the price, under €200 to be exact.
DKNY Tan Saffiano Leather Handbag, €180.00
Siopaella has been a haven for affordable designer pieces since it opened its doors in Temple Bar in 2011.
Since then, the store has expanded to include four amazing locations in the heart of Dublin, including their latest designer emporium on Wicklow Street.
Michael Kors Burgundy Leather Drawstring Bag, €89.00
"We love our new store," said senior Siopaella stylist Ciara McCaughey. "The location is great. Obviously we love Temple Bar, but the expansion onto Wicklow street has been our dream since first opening Crow Street."
"The best thing about buying a bag from us is that they are cheaper than retail, and if you buy a Chanel, Louis Vuitton or Hermes bag they actually appreciate in value," she said. "So, in the long run, you could make money from your Chanel bag."
Kate Spade Watermelon Clutch €99.00
The savings are there for buyers too, as Siopaella pieces have dramatic markdowns for pieces that are of perfect quality.
SHEmazing! has selected a few of the most affordable pieces from Siopaella with the help of their senior stylist, to prove that buying designer doesn't have to blow your budget.
Michael Kors tote, €149.00, available in store
The top brands on this list include Mulberry, Burberry, Michael Kors and Kate Spade, and every single piece comes in at under €200; so nabbing a designer bag actually can leave you with change left over for Christmas.
The only thing is that you have to snap them up quick, as most of the pieces are one-offs, and wont be back in stock.
Mulberry wallet, €199.00
If you already have the designer bag of your dreams or you want to get an affordable designer accessory for your sister, mum or girlfriend; a wallet could be just the thing.
One of Siopaella's most affordable premium wallets, from Radley, is a miniscule €25.00.
Burberry wallet, €69.00, available in store
Fashion should be ethical as well as an exciting part of everyday life, and choosing a re-sale designer piece helps the health of the environment as well as the health of your pocket.
Karl Lagerfeld, €180.00, available in store
While purchasing a designer bag for the party season might be a dream come true, choosing a versatile piece that will see you through the entire year is a much better investment.
"Purchasing a luxury handbag is an investment, not just in a timeless piece that can be treasured for years, but in the designers as well," said Ashley McDonnell, Digital Strategy Manager at LVMH, the fashion house in charge of Dior, Louis Vuitton, Celine and more.
"It's an investment in the highest quality of standards and craftmanship."
If you're hung up on getting the perfect party piece, this Kate Spade piece is ideal for creating a retro festive party look, with a pencil skirt and coifed curls.
A statement bag also means you can go minimalist with your look and let the clutch do the talking.
Pop into Siopaella at 29 Wicklow St, Dublin 2 to see what else is on offer. Your winter wardrobe will thank you.
