I'm coming to LA from the UK next week, for the first time in about 8 years. I'd love to buy a handbag knowing I'm getting a better deal than buying at home - I will be staying variously in DTLA, Simi Valley and Santa Monica and will have a car.
My budget is (sadly) not large - ideally under $450 (but some wiggle room). I think my preferences lie with something larger (to fit 15" laptop) so I could use it for work. A cross body strap is ideal but would be ok with a shoulder bag if the straps are long enough for comfort.
Currently favouring softer/slouchy styles and leather is preferred but my tastes are pretty eclectic. Favourite recent purchases are a Radley Chancery Flapover medium grab bag (smoke blue), Katie Loxton Nova Woven Bag Large (cherry), a Vinted purchase of a Coach pleated East West Gallery tote (photos) and I've bought a few vintage Coach bags over the past years among other brands at a similar price point.
Any thoughts of a) styles that might fit the brief and b) where to shop (especially knowledge of where sales tax is lower to make a drive worth it) gratefully received!