Both Coach and Michael Kors are regarded as “budget luxury” brands. Which of these two brands’ products is more expensive? Generally speaking, Coach bag is slightly more expensive than Michael Kors bag and is positioned at a higher end. Some people also think that the overall price level of Michael Kors is higher than that of Coach bag.
So, how much do Coach and Michael Kors bags usually cost? In terms of specific price comparisons, which brand is more expensive? Of course, both Coach and Michael Kors are regarded as moderately priced luxury brands. There is a significant price overlap between them. The specific price still needs to be comprehensively considered based on factors such as product type, material, design, and the extent of discount.
This post will explore which bag, Coach or Michael Kors, is more expensive and more suitable for your purchase.
What is Coach and Michael Kors?
Coach and Michael Kors are both American fashion brands, renowned for their fashionable handbags, accessories and ready-to-wear clothing. Both Coach and Michael Kors offer luxurious aesthetics at acceptable prices, but Coach leans towards timeless craftsmanship, while Michael Kors emphasizes fashionable and charming designs.
What is Coach bag?
The Coach bag is a handbag or accessory launched by the American luxury fashion brand Coach, renowned for its high-quality leather goods and classic American style.
Coach was founded in 1941 in a loft in New York City. It was initially a family-run workshop that made small leather goods such as wallets and wallets. The brand’s reputation is built on durable, well-crafted and fully functional handbags, which have gradually developed a rich luster over time.
Today, Coach is a globally renowned brand and is often classified as an “approachable luxury” brand. This means it offers the high-quality materials, craftsmanship and design of luxury brands, but at a price that is more acceptable to ultra-high-end designers like Hermes or Chanel.
The price range of Coach bags: $$-$$$ (Typically $200–$900 for handbags).
The main features of Coach bags:
Brand DNA
Coach was founded by six artisans, whose inspiration came from the soft and durable leather of baseball gloves, which influenced their signature method of making soft and elastic leather products. This emphasis on quality and functionality remains at the core of its identity. For decades, Coach has expanded its product range to include accessories, ready-to-wear, footwear and jewelry, while maintaining its reputation for timeless design rooted in American tradition.
High-quality leather
Coach is renowned for its superior leather. This brand uses various types of leather, including glove-tanned leather (renowned for its softness and suppleness), cobblestone leather (durable and scratch-resistant), and smooth calfskin.
The quality of the leather is the main difference from cheap brands.
High-quality craftsmanship
Authentic Coach bags are renowned for their impeccable structure. This includes:
- Precise and uniform splicing, number of stitches per inch high.
- Sturdy and high-quality hardware (zippers, buckles, rotary locks), usually with a clearly engraved Coach name.
- Reinforced joints and meticulous attention to detail.
Iconic designs and logos
- Signature canvas: Many Coach bags feature the brand’s signature “C” print pattern, which was first introduced in the 1960s and remains popular to this day.
- Classic styles: Coach has launched many enduring styles, such as the Willis Bag and Duffle Sac from the 1970s, as well as modern logos like the tiger stripe and pillow tiger stripe.
- Coach emblem: A classic pattern of a horse and a carriage is often used in designs, paying tribute to the brand’s traditions.
“Barrier-free Luxury” positioning
Although Coach bags represent a huge investment, their pricing is lower than that of European luxury goods. This makes them a popular “entry point” into the world of designer handbags.
Key Differences: Coach and Michael Kors
| Aspect |
Coach |
Michael Kors |
| Design |
Classic, understated |
Glamorous, logo-driven |
| Materials |
Premium leather, canvas |
Saffiano leather, synthetic blends |
| Target Audience |
Practical, heritage-loving consumers |
Fashion-forward, trend-conscious buyers |
| Price Point |
Slightly higher on average |
More affordable entry-level options |
What is Michael Kors bag?
The Michael Kors bag is a handbag or accessory designed by the American fashion designer Michael Kors. The brand was founded in 1981 and is renowned worldwide for its luxurious and charming aesthetics, combining luxury with modern and approachable sensibility. Like Coach, Michael Kors is positioned in the “affordable luxury” or “mass luxury” sector. Compared with ultra-high-end brands, it offers designer styles at more achievable prices.
Michael Kors bags are renowned for their fashion and trendiness, symbolizing a modern and international lifestyle.
Price range: $$-$$$ (Typically $150–$800 for handbags).
The main characteristics of the Michael Kors bag:
Charming aesthetic
- The core of the Michael Kors brand image is luxury, charm and the “jet” lifestyle. These designs often evoke a sense of travel, refinement and modern elegance.
- Bags usually stand out for their shiny hardware, chain details and luxurious materials.
Signature mark and pattern
- The MK letter combination: The most recognizable feature is usually the prominent “MK” logo or the complete “Michael Kors” name displayed on hardware and plaque labels.
- Signature print: Many bags feature unique letter combination patterns (usually a repetitive “MK” or Safiano-style print). This signal-centered design is a major part of the brand’s appeal.
Popular materials
- Saffiano leather: A very popular material for MK bags. This is a pressed, textured leather with a cross hatch pattern, which is highly durable, scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
- Pebbled leather: soft, durable, slightly casual.
- Suede and nylon: Used in different series to achieve different looks and feels.
Hardware and design details
- The hardware is usually in gold, silver or rose gold tones, adding a charming feel.
- Many styles feature chain straps (usually detachable), which is a signature design element.
- Compared with some of its competitors’ more low-key brands, this brand is usually more public and prominent.
Michael Kors vs. Coach: A quick comparison
| Feature |
Coach |
Michael Kors |
| Founded |
1941 |
1981 |
| Style |
Classic, understated |
Trendy, bold, glamorous |
| Aesthetic |
Often uses classic leather and canvas, with a more timeless, preppy feel. |
Known for a wide range of materials and a more overtly glamorous, trendy look. |
| Materials |
Premium leather |
Leather, coated canvas, saffiano leather |
| Price Range |
$200–$900+ |
$150–$800+ |
| Logo Style |
Subtle (C logo or none) |
Bold (MK logo, monogram prints) |
| Target Audience |
Traditional, timeless luxury shoppers |
Fashion-forward, younger consumers |
| Brand Perception |
Quality and craftsmanship-focused |
Trend and brand-focused |
| Parent Company |
Tapestry, Inc. |
Capri Holdings |
What are the popular bags of Coach and Michael Kors?
Coach and Michael Kors are two renowned American fashion brands, specializing in moderately priced luxury handbags, accessories and clothing. So, what are their popular bag styles?
Coach’s product line
- Coach retail: The main series feature the latest designs, premium leather and full-price products.
- Coach outlet: A separate product line specifically designed for Coach outlet stores. These props are usually designed to be sold at a lower price. Compared with retail props, their hardware or materials may be slightly different.
- Coach vintage: Bags from the 1960s to the 1990s are highly sought after for their durable structure, classic style and aging, beautiful full-grain leather.
Popular Coach Bag Styles:
- Coach Tabby: A rectangular, structured bag with a chain strap and the iconic “C” logo clasp. It comes in various sizes and materials, from smooth leather to quilted designs. Price Range: $350 – $550
- Coach Willis: A vintage-inspired top-handle bag with a turnlock closure, often in pebbled leather. It’s a nod to Coach’s archives and exudes retro charm.
- Coach Swagger: A slouchy, hobo-style bag with a front flap and chain detailing. It’s known for its relaxed yet chic vibe.
- Coach Rogue: A larger, tote-style bag with double handles and a detachable shoulder strap. It’s perfect for work or travel, offering ample space without sacrificing style.
- Coach City Tote: A spacious, unstructured tote with an open top and interior pockets. It’s ideal for daily errands or as a carry-on bag.
- Coach Pillow Tabby: Puffy, quilted version of the Tabby — went viral.
Related posts:
Where are Coach bags made?
Michael Kors product series:
- Michael Kors collection: A high-end catwalk series featuring the finest materials and designs.
- Michael Kors (MK) : The main and widely used diffusion line. This is the most common series in department stores and is also what most people consider the “Michael Kors bag”.
- Michael Kors Outlet: Goods specially produced for Outlet stores, usually at more affordable prices.
Popular Michael Kors bag styles:
- Jet Set Tote: Classic large tote bag — perfect for work or travel. Price Range: $150 – $350
- Mercer Bag: Structured and chic with a polished, professional look.
- Selma Satchel: Elegant and versatile — once a signature style.
- SoHo Bag: Quilted leather, chain strap — more on the trendy/luxury side.
- Hamilton Bag: Known for its lock and key charm detail.
Popular styles recommendations
Women’s Bags
- Greenwich Color-Block Shoulder Bag: Features a blend of rose pink, lotus pink, and creamy white for a youthful, feminine touch. It can be worn as a shoulder, crossbody, or handheld bag.
- Preston Shoulder Bag: Peanut-colored with a soft, dreamy aesthetic, perfect for spring and summer.
- Miranda Bucket Bag: Crafted from French calfskin with a drawstring closure and interior pockets, it balances playfulness and practicality.
Men’s Bags
- Malone Monogram Backpack: Black monogram design with spacious storage and comfortable wear, ideal for commuting or travel.
- Camera Crossbody Bag: Classic black, durable, and with ample capacity for daily use.
Coach vs. Michael Kors:
| Brand |
Style |
Target Audience |
Price Range |
| Coach |
Classic, leather-focused |
Timeless, traditional luxury |
$200–$900+ |
| Michael Kors |
Trendy, modern, logo-centric |
Fashion-forward, jet-setters |
$150–$800+ |
What makes Coach and Michael Kors luxury brands?
Coach and Michael Kors are both well-known luxury fashion brands in the United States, each with its unique brand heritage, design concept and market positioning. What makes them stand out and become luxury brands?
What makes Coach bags a luxury brand?
- Leather quality: Coach is renowned for using high-quality leather, especially its glove tanned leather.
- Craftsmanship: Renowned for durability, sewing and meticulous work.
- Design: Ranging from classic and minimalist to fashionable and iconic. There are handbags, shoulder bags, crossbody bags, backpacks and so on.
- Affordable luxury: Coach bags typically cost between $150 and $600, so they are considered “affordable luxury” – more affordable than brands like Louis Vuitton or Gucci.
Why choose a Coach bag?
- Affordable luxury goods: Compared with high-end brands like Chanel or Hermes, Coach offers luxury goods at more affordable prices, making it an excellent entry point for high-end quality handbags.
- Multi-functional: From day to night, from work to weekends, from casual to formal occasions, Coach bags can be seamlessly transformed.
- Resale value: Due to their durability and timeless design, Coach bags retain their value well, especially vintage or limited edition ones.
- Ethical Production: Coach is committed to sustainable development, using responsible materials and reducing its environmental impact through initiatives such as recycling programs.
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How do you tell if Coach bag is real?
What makes Michael Kors bag a luxury brand?
Michael Kors bags stand out for their unique blend of luxury, timeless design and practicality, making them the cornerstone of modern American fashion. What makes Michael Kors a luxury brand?
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship: Michael Kors bags are made of high-quality materials, such as Safayano leather (scratch-resistant, durable, and polished), soft cowhide, and glossy hardware. This focus on material quality is in line with the standards of luxury goods.
- Luxury brand identity and aesthetics: This brand advocates a luxurious and charming lifestyle – think of urban professionals, celebrities and travelers. Its design reflects refinement, elegance and international taste, and is a symbol of luxury fashion.
- Global recognition and prestige: Michael Kors has opened stores in high-end shopping malls and fashion capitals around the world, establishing a strong brand awareness. Its logo (especially the “MK” letter combination) indicates status and style.
- Designer legacy: This brand was founded by Michael Kors, a renowned and award-winning designer in the American fashion industry, carrying the credibility of creativity.
- Higher price point: With prices significantly higher than those of fast fashion (typically ranging from 150 to over 600 US dollars), Michael Kors’ bags have dominated the high-end market, reinforcing their perception of luxury goods.
Why choose Michael Kors?
Michael Kors bags are more than just accessories; They are a way of life. Whether you are attracted by the practicality of Jet Set Travel, the timeless elegance of HAMILTON, or the modern advantages of NOLITA, this brand can offer versatility, quality and Hollywood charm at an affordable price. In an era where sustainable development and self-expression are of great significance, Michael Kors continues to evolve – remaining true to its roots and embracing the future of fashion.
It is regarded as an “affordable luxury” – more accessible than European elite brands, yet still offering the design, quality and brand value associated with luxury.
What Makes a Michael Kors Bag Special?
| Feature |
Description |
| 👜 Design |
Sleek, modern, and often logo-heavy. Blends functionality with fashion. |
| 💼 Material |
Uses leather (saffiano, pebbled), PVC, or coated canvas. |
| ✨ Branding |
Iconic MK logo, gold hardware, and key charms are common. |
| 💰 Price Range |
Typically $150–$500, with outlets offering lower-priced versions. |
| 🏷️Accessibility |
Found in department stores, outlets, and online. Aimed at the mass-luxury market. |
Which is more expensive? Coach or Michael Kors ?
Handbags are the core products of both brands, with Coach typically positioning itself at a higher price point.
- Coach’s core handbag collections, such as the iconic Tabby and Brooklyn lines, generally start at $400 – $800, while premium styles like the Quilted Tabby 20 can reach $850. Even entry-level totes, such as the Day Tote, are priced around $290.
- In contrast, Michael Kors’mainstream collections like Heather and Mercer range from $250 – $650. During promotions, many medium-sized handbags often drop below $400. For example, the Mercer Medium Tote frequently sells at a discounted price of $180.
| Brand |
Price Range |
Typical Price |
| Coach |
$150 – $900+ |
$250 – $550 (average) |
| Michael Kors |
$100 – $800+ |
$150 – $400 (average) |
Considering the regular series and the original price, Coach is often more expensive than Michael Kors, especially in the mid-to-high-end series. However, during promotional activities, the price differences become less obvious, providing consumers with more economical and practical choices.
The price gap between Coach and Michael Kors has significantly widened in high-end brands. Coach’s Tabby or Brooklyn bags are usually 30-50% more expensive than MK’s similar styles.
Comparison: Coach vs Michael Kors
| Factor |
Coach |
Michael Kors |
| Typical price ranges |
Mid-to-higher end of the “affordable luxury” category. Bags often fall in the US $250 – 500 range for many of their core pieces. |
Generally more accessible; many bags are priced US $150 – 400 for common styles. |
| Entry level items |
Coach’s small leather goods, wallets, etc., often start higher, or with higher quality materials, which raises cost. |
Michael Kors has more “entry” level price points; some items are lower even within similar categories. |
| Premium / high-end lines or limited editions |
Coach also has higher-end collections, specialty leather, limited editions, which can push prices up significantly. |
Michael Kors has designer lines that are more expensive, but overall fewer offerings that reach as high as Coach’s higher tiers. |
| Discounts & outlets |
Both brands use outlets and heavy discounts, which can bring overlap in price. So sometimes you’ll find a MK piece in retail that’s similar in price to a discounted Coach piece. |
What makes the prices of Coach and Michael Kors different?
For most product categories, Coach is more expensive because it emphasizes tradition, materials and exclusivity. The price of Michael Kors is more affordable and the discount is greater. It is a more suitable choice for the budget. So, what is the reason for the price difference between the two?
Brand positioning and price basis
Coach
- Positioning: Coach is a classic fashion brand originated from the United States, initially renowned for its exquisite handcrafted leather goods craftsmanship. The brand is positioned in the mid-to-high-end market, dedicated to integrating classic aesthetics with modern practical functions, offering a diverse range of products including handbags, accessories, shoes and clothing. Coach’s design emphasizes the balance between inheritance and innovation, and has won the favor of global consumers with its signature elements and timeless style.
- Price basis: The product pricing of Coach is slightly higher than that of Michael Kors, reflecting its higher market positioning. The price of entry-level handbags usually ranges from 600 to 1,200 US dollars, varying depending on the style, material and size. For instance, the basic canvas series handbags are relatively affordable, while the styles made of top-quality leather (such as polished cobblestone or smooth calfskin) generally cost over 1,200 US dollars. The price range of the brand’s accessories such as wallets and belts is between 150 and 500 US dollars, reflecting a relatively high pricing strategy among light luxury brands.
Michael Kors
- Positioning: Michael Kors also originated from the United States, with a core positioning of luxurious casual style. It belongs to the category of light luxury brands that emphasize a sense of trendiness. Its design emphasizes a modern and fashionable atmosphere as well as exquisite details, and is deeply loved by the young and fashionable group. The product line covers areas such as handbags, watches, jewelry, ready-to-wear, etc.
- Price basis: Michael Kors is priced slightly lower than Coach, and the entry-level handbags are mostly priced in the range of $400 to $900. Handbags made of artificial leather or mixed materials are more affordable, while leather handbags are mainly priced between 700 and 1,500 US dollars. Accessories such as wallets usually cost between 100 and 300 US dollars, which is significantly lower than similar products from Coach.
The influence of product materials and craftsmanship on prices
Coach
- Material: Coach prioritizes the use of high-quality natural materials, such as imported top-grain cowhide, goatskin, and durable canvas that has undergone special treatment. In recent years, brands have been actively promoting eco-friendly materials such as recycled leather and organic cotton. The use of these innovative materials has also, to a certain extent, pushed up product costs.
- Craftsmanship: Coach continues the traditional leather-making techniques, with a relatively high proportion of hand sewing, especially in the edge polishing, hardware assembly and other links, it strives for excellence. Each handbag goes through over 100 processes, and its signature “Turnlock” design combines functionality with aesthetic details. This insistence on craftsmanship makes Coach’s production cost higher than that of many similar brands.
Michael Kors
- Material: Although Michael Kors also uses high-quality leather, it more often employs mixed materials, such as the patented Saffiano textured leather (wear-resistant artificial leather) mixed with fabrics. The brand focuses on the fashionable expressiveness of materials rather than pure traditional texture, and this strategy effectively controls costs.
- Craftsmanship: The brand leans towards modern mass production techniques with a relatively high degree of mechanization. Although it maintains good sewing standards and hardware quality, it is slightly simplified in manual details compared to Coach, such as the inner lining structure and edge treatment, which are more concise. This enables it to enter the market at a more competitive price.
The reflection of design and style on price
Coach
- Design style: Coach’s design philosophy is rooted in “reinterpreting classics”. While maintaining traditional silhouettes such as saddle bags and backpacks, it showcases a modern feel through color innovation and material mix and match. The brand’s collaboration series with renowned designers (such as the partnership with Selena Gomez) have further enhanced the design premium.
- Price reflection: The continuous popularity of classic styles enables Coach to maintain a relatively high pricing level. Especially for some limited edition styles with complex techniques (such as inlay techniques, hand embroidery, etc.), the price can reach $2,000 – $3,000, significantly higher than similar products of Michael Kors.
Michael Kors
- Design style: The brand emphasizes “instant fashion”, responds quickly to changes in trends, and its design language is more extroverted and bold. A large amount of metal decorations, chain elements and eye-catching logos are used to meet the demands of young consumers for a flamboyant style.
- Price reflection: Due to the short design replacement cycle and large mass production scale, Michael Kors can reduce the unit cost through large-scale production, making its pricing more flexible. Although the occasional high-end limited edition series launched by the brand can reach a price of 1,500 US dollars, the prices of its main products are still significantly lower than those of Coach.
The role of market strategy and brand value in pricing
Coach
- Marketing strategy: Coach adopts a “selective distribution” strategy, strictly controlling the number of channels to maintain brand scarcity. At the same time, it strengthens its high-end image through exclusive member activities and limited sales, and rarely participates in large-scale discount promotions.
- Brand value: According to the latest brand value assessment, Coach ranks among the top in the light luxury sector. Its long brand history (founded in 1941) and continuous product innovation jointly support a high brand premium capacity. The brand premium rate that consumers are willing to pay for it is approximately 25-30%.
Michael Kors
- Marketing strategy: The brand adopts a “broad distribution” strategy, covering multiple channels such as department stores, outlet malls and e-commerce platforms, and frequently participates in seasonal promotional activities (such as a 50% discount on Black Friday). Although this strategy has increased sales, it has also diluted the brand premium to a certain extent.
- Brand value: Michael Kors has a strong influence among the younger generation through celebrity endorsements and social media marketing. However, the brand’s historical accumulation is relatively shallow (founded in 1981), and consumers’ recognition of its brand premium is approximately 15-20%, which is directly reflected in product pricing.
Which one is better for you? Coach or Michael Kors?
Overall price level
In terms of market positioning and product pricing, Coach’s overall price level is slightly higher than that of Michael Kors. This difference mainly stems from Coach’s preference for high-quality leather and classic craftsmanship in material selection, its design style emphasizing the combination of classic and modern elements, and its strong brand premium capacity.
Michael Kors, with its positioning as a light luxury trend and more cost-effective material options, maintains a relatively affordable pricing.
Price trend
Both will adjust their prices in accordance with market conditions and cost changes. When the economy is doing well, Coach’s prices rise slightly due to the stability of its classic product line.
Michael Kors responds flexibly to the market through discount strategies. During economic downturns, both may launch promotions, but Coach’s price cuts are usually smaller to maintain brand value.
Which brand should you choose? Coach or Michael Kors?
If you prefer understated luxury, durability and timeless aesthetics, choose Coach. This is an ideal choice for professionals or those who appreciate classic designs.
If you want bold, fashionable and charming clothes, you can choose Michael Kors. This is perfect for fashion enthusiasts who want to make a statement without spending everything they have.
Reviews of Coach and Michael Kors
“I still like Coach very much, but overall, I have to admit that MK is slightly better. MK is not completely superior to Coach, but overall, I think the quality of MK bags is better. However, I fully agree that these collection packs are of completely different levels.”
“The quality of MK is just amazing! I also have several Coach bags, and their quality is about the same. However, I think the quality of MK is more stable. The advantage of MK is that if you buy a bag, you won’t find its price less than half of the original price at the outlet two weeks later. This is also one of the reasons why I lost interest in Coach (I have been a die-hard fan of Coach for the past 11 years). Take Hamilton for example. It’s a really great bag. The leather is super good (yes, this is it). There are several pockets inside that can hold all kinds of things. It’s simply a beautiful bag. Now, when it comes to the bags of MK Collection, I think they are much better than those of Coach.”
“I have several Coach bags and I like all of them very much. Coach offers superior quality, novel designs, and adheres to quality assurance, providing repair services, refunds, or discounts for the next purchase. They also offer coupons and promotional activities. Overall, Coach products are of superior quality, come in a wide variety of styles, have a complete return policy, and offer excellent quality assurance.”
“I only have one Michael Kors Hamilton bag and three small crossbody bags, all of which I like very much. The quality of MK seems to be as good as that of Coach. Unfortunately, MK’s return policy is not very good. MK does not offer coupons. All discounted sales are regarded as final sales and returns are not accepted. Besides, I have no idea about their quality guarantee.”
Conclusion
Overall, Coach’s bags are slightly more expensive than Michael Kors’ and are positioned at a higher end. However, both of them are moderately priced luxury brands, which are very suitable for fashion consumers who pursue quality and design rather than excessively high prices.
In addition, compared with Michael Kors, Coach offers more choices of various styles of bags at lower prices during discount activities, which makes it easier for consumers with tight budgets to “afford” them.
If you are running a luxury brand like Coach or Michael Kors, or want to create a luxury bag brand, and are looking for a reliable leather bag manufacturer, welcome to contact Gionar, a leather bag manufacturer based in Baiyun District, Guangzhou, China, which has been dedicated to the production of high-end leather bags for 19 years.
