Back when I had more disposable income Coach was about the best I could afford, so I'd go once a year or once every two years to the outlet that was a few hours away (yes, this was a LOOONG time ago!) and buy one nice Coach bag. They are classics and lovely and my sister is enjoying using them
Then we had Lula and went to one income and my shoe and bag budget went away. Boo. So I started buying cheaper bags. I have come to realize though that faux leather bags are not worth the money. They look cheap and crappy in just a few months of use, the linings don't hold up, the stitching frays, etc. etc. etc. I guess if I was getting decent quality for less then I'd be happy but seriously, it is NOT worth buying three $30- $50 bags at TJ Maxx a year.
A few months ago I bought a nice leather bag at Clark's. It is their Artisian line, so all leather, and it was a little over $100. It is lovely and I expect to get a ton of use out of it.