If you watched Carrie and couldn’t stop staring at Chris Hargensen’s wardrobe, you’re not alone. Her style is the perfect mix of mean-girl energy, early-2000s fashion, and designer accessories that make an outfit feel instantly cooler. One standout piece is her Balenciaga Agneau Giant 21 Gold Hardware City Bag in Black, a slouchy leather handbag with gold hardware that perfectly captures that edgy, effortless aesthetic.
The Balenciaga City bag has become a cult-favorite accessory for a reason. Between its soft silhouette, moto-inspired details, and statement hardware, it’s the kind of bag that looks just as good with a mini skirt and fitted top as it does with low-rise jeans and a leather jacket.
The good news? You don’t have to splurge on a designer handbag to channel Chris Hargensen’s style. If you’re looking for an affordable alternative, here are three black handbags worth shopping for that capture some of the same edgy, early-2000s energy.
1. Balenciaga Le City Uptown Mini Handbag
If you want to stay within the Balenciaga family, the Balenciaga Le City Uptown Mini Handbag is worth checking out. It’s a great option for anyone who loves the iconic City bag aesthetic but wants to explore a different size and silhouette.
The Le City design brings that recognizable Balenciaga attitude to a smaller handbag, making it a fun accessory for everyday outfits, shopping trips, or a night out. Pair it with a fitted baby tee, a pleated mini skirt, and chunky boots for a look that feels straight out of the early 2000s.
While it’s still a designer purchase rather than a budget dupe, it’s an option for anyone who wants to invest in a Balenciaga bag while keeping that edgy, downtown-inspired style in rotation.
2. BDG Karlie Lock Shoulder Bag from Urban Outfitters
For a more accessible way to channel the look, check out the BDG Karlie Lock Shoulder Bag from Urban Outfitters.
A black shoulder bag is one of those accessories that can make even the simplest outfit feel intentional. The Karlie Lock is worth considering if you’re drawn to the compact shoulder-bag trend and want something that works with the feminine, slightly rebellious style associated with early-2000s fashion.
Style it with low-rise baggy jeans, a fitted tank top, and pointed-toe boots for an everyday outfit inspired by Chris Hargensen. You could also pair it with a black mini dress and gold jewelry for a more dressed-up look.
It’s a particularly good style direction if you want a bag that feels trendy without committing to the price of a luxury designer accessory.
3. Angelkiss Black Satchel Handbag from Amazon
Looking for an affordable black handbag to add to your rotation? The Angelkiss Satchel Handbag on Amazon is another option to explore.
This style is worth a look if you’re shopping for a black bag with a structured satchel shape and want an everyday accessory without a designer price tag. It’s a practical alternative for building outfits around the black-and-gold handbag trend, especially if you’re more interested in the overall aesthetic than owning the original Balenciaga.
Try styling it with a fitted black top, a denim mini skirt, sheer tights, and tall boots. Add gold hoops and a pair of slim sunglasses to complete the look. It’s an easy way to lean into that early-2000s mean-girl aesthetic without making your entire outfit feel like a costume.
As with any Amazon handbag, check the current product photos, dimensions, materials, and customer reviews before purchasing to make sure it fits your expectations.
How to Style a Chris Hargensen-Inspired Handbag
The secret to recreating Chris’s style isn’t just finding a similar bag. It’s pairing your accessories with pieces that capture the era’s mix of feminine silhouettes and rebellious details.
Here are a few outfit combinations to try:
- Mini skirt and boots: Pair a black handbag with a pleated mini skirt, fitted top, and knee-high boots.
- Low-rise denim: Wear your bag with loose, low-rise jeans, a baby tee, and a leather belt with gold hardware.
- All-black outfit: Combine a black mini dress, sheer tights, chunky shoes, and gold jewelry for an edgier look.
- Casual cool: Style your handbag with a fitted tank, oversized jacket, and baggy jeans for an effortless off-duty outfit.
The best part about this aesthetic is that you can make it your own. You don’t need an entire designer wardrobe to capture the look. Sometimes, a black handbag with the right silhouette and hardware is all you need to pull an outfit together.
Whether you choose a Balenciaga design or a more affordable alternative, these three bags are worth exploring if you’re ready to bring a little Chris Hargensen energy into your fall wardrobe.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. And remember, Chris Hargensen is Carrie Red.