When it comes to designer handbags, there’s no denying that the best Louis Vuitton bags are considered some of the most prestigious and coveted accessories, alongside the likes of Chanel and Gucci. What originally began as a luggage atelier in 1854 has skyrocketed into one of the most instantly recognizable–and often imitated–luxury labels.
Buying one of the best designer handbags, like a Louis Vuitton, is not only a style statement, but it can also be a worthwhile investment too. While designer brands such as Louis Vuitton are constantly reinventing their bag collections, helping to formulate the latest handbag trends 2022, some of the best Louis Vuitton bags are the classic styles that have been around for years. These investment purchases can often retain or increase in value if they're particularly rare buys too. If you learn how to sell clothes online you can even make money from your old designer bags.
But like with buying the best designer heels, investing in brand labels can come with a hefty price tag. While Louis Vuitton does not have any stores at the best designer outlets, you can look for discounted Louis Vuitton bags online and at resellers as a way of procuring one for less. And if you can't afford to buy one straight out, don't worry as you can now also rent a little slice of the luxury brand at some of the best bags and dress rental services too.
What makes the best Louis Vuitton bags so special?
“The best Louis Vuitton handbags have become a staple piece for the style-conscious,” says Mahenoor, Head of Authentication at luxury resale service Cudoni. “Along with being classic, the quality and craftsmanship are unparalleled. Over the years, the fashion house has introduced many iterations of the classic monogram, like the Black Monogram Multicolor and the Reverse Monogram, both of which remind us how innovative and creative the house is. Whether you're looking for an iconic vintage piece or a more streetwear-worthy collaboration, Louis Vuitton does it all, and does it all incredibly well.”
In fact, Louis Vuitton has long been a firm favorite of the fashion pack and celebrities for the brand's quality and longevity. “Louis Vuitton bags are beautifully made pieces and as such, tend to be long-lasting if they are well cared for so you will get a lot of use from one,” explains Tina Lipfriend, founder of bag rental service BagButler.
Audrey Hepburn wearing a Louis Vuitton bag
Like the best Gucci bags, Louis Vuitton bags have graced the arms of many a celebrity over the years, from Audrey Hepburn through to Kendall Jenner. Supermodels including Kate Moss, Erin O'Connor, Grace Coddington, and Bella Hadid have all been spotted carrying one of the classics. Fashion It girls Poppy Delevigne and Alexa Chung are fans of the brand too, alongside celebrities such as Venus Williams and Alicia Vikander.
With some of the best tote bags, best crossbody bags, and best weekend bags to choose from, it's no surprise the French fashion house is one of the most coveted. Here, with the help of fashion experts, we look at the best Louis Vuitton styles and the celebs who have loved them throughout the decades.
The best Louis Vuitton bags, as chosen by fashion experts
Not sure which is the best Louis Vuitton bag to invest in? Here’s everything you need to know about the most coveted styles.
1. Louis Vuitton Neverfull
As you might have guessed by the name, the Louis Vuitton Neverfull makes plenty of room for stashing your essentials, which is why we've picked it as one of the best Louis Vuitton bags. The classic tote shape is set apart from the crowd with the addition of sleek side laces that can be loosened or tightened, and tear-shape-edged handles, making it one of the best tote bags for your capsule wardrobe.
Look out for variations of this bag that come complete with a separate pouch, which can also double as a handy clutch. Throw your Neverfull over your shoulder or wear in the crook of your arm, the choice is yours. Charlotte Rogers, co-founder of designer bag resale site EKC Luxury says "Chic and hard-wearing, it is the classic contemporary Vuitton staple."
Neverfull fashion editor picks
RRP: $2,980 / £2,070 | Featuring the Summer Stardust animation for a luxurious and shimmery effect, this iteration of the Neverfull MM carryall bag is made in embossed Monogram Empreinte leather. Worn over the shoulder, or carried by the top handles, this is a lightweight bag, that as the name suggests is extremely roomy. Ideal for the summer months, this sleek design feels fresh and modern.
RRP: $2,100 / £1,450 | The contrasting lining makes it easy to locate your essentials in a hurry. A classic monogram tote that will never date, it's perfect as an everyday work bag. In the brand's timeless chocolate and gold coloring, this design is instantly recognizable as Louis Vuitton. The side closures allow you to cinch in for a more fitted feel or leave open for a relaxed finish.
RRP: $2,440 / £1,690 | Take advantage of the brand's monogramming service to make your bag your own - with the choice of adding stripes and initials. One of the few brands that allow you to entirely customize an iconic design, this bag makes for a fantastic present for a special occasion. With two stripe styles and a color palette to choose from, you can have a unique finish.
2. Louis Vuitton Alma
Aside from the Boite Chapeau, this is the best Louis Vuitton bag for a heritage feel. Its origins can be traced back to 1934, then called the Art Deco original. The rounded shape, a stand-out luggage tag, and wide handles are all distinctive features, as is the contrast base - added for extra durability at the corners. Rogers says, "Beloved for the chic vintage shape and the full zip the Alma comes in a variety of sizes to suit your needs". We’d wear ours across the body for laid-back weekends, and with the grab handles for work or smarter events - it could even make for a great 40th birthday gift idea for any fashionistas in your life about to hit the big milestone.
Alma fashion editor picks
RRP: $1,760 / £1,220 | Featuring all the iconic details, this bag has the added benefit of top handles or a long crossbody strap, so you can go hands-free. This classic colorway will pair easily with all your wardrobe essentials, from your best jeans, to smarter summer outfits for work.
RRP: $2,160 / £1,640 | Embrace the fashion color trends 2022, with this mood-boosting pink bag. Following on from the dopamine dressing trend, we're seeing a huge uptick in bright colored clothes and accessories at both designer and straight-to-market level, invest now.
RRP: $2,570 / £1,780 | If you're looking for the best everyday bag, or trying to solve what to wear to an interview. Then you'll always impress with the Alma PM. Structured lines reflect the 1934 Art Deco original, featuring silver hardware and the iconic key bell.
3. Louis Vuitton Speedy
Named Speedy to reflect the rapid pace at which those who used it in the 1930s were traveling, this is a bag that has stood the test of time, which is why it's one of our best Louis Vuitton bag picks. It’s not dissimilar in shape and design to the Keepall, just on a smaller scale. Double zip compartments and super soft, rolled handles make it a chic and practical choice for all-week wear. "Classically recognizable, the Louis Vuitton Speedy is the perfect, secure travel companion. One of the all-time best sellers in the resale market the Speedy comes in various sizes - collect them all!" says Rogers.
The nano is the tiniest version, and the 40 is the largest. If you’re looking to save money, opt for the classic Speedy, over the Speedy Bandouliére. The body is made from canvas, instead of leather, and there’s no cross-body strap, which is reflected in the price reduction. “At the moment, the most popular bag on our website is the beloved Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 in their signature Damier Ebene canvas,” says Mahenoor.
Speedy fashion editor picks
RRP: $1,550 / £1,080 | The checkerboard print will coordinate seamlessly with pretty much anything in your wardrobe. It also has a contrasting red interior for extra luxe.
RRP: $1,890 / £1,310 | One of the best weekend bags for women, the canvas fabric has been carefully coated to ensure your designer bag stays as good as new for as long as possible.
RRP: $2,410 / £1,670 | Explore the denim trends 2022 and embrace '90s nostalgia with this classic shaped bag in a modern fabrication and print. Ideal for wearing with casual looks.
4. Louis Vuitton Boite Chapeau
An iconic piece that makes a real statement, the Louis Vuitton Boite Chapeau is a modern re-imagining of a classic hatbox. "This bag has fast become a collectors favorite. I have styled it as a belt bag, shoulder bag, and crossbody. Plus the small size makes it perfect for shopping trips and days out" says Rogers. The structured shape makes for a really versatile piece. Use to dress up your best jeans during the day, and wear with a fancy frock come evening. Choose between the full size, mini or petite version depending on which size would make the best Louis Vuitton bag for you - or could even work as one of the best 30th birthday gifts thanks to its on-trend crossbody style.
“The most popular Louis Vuitton on BagButler is the Boite Chapeau,” advises Lipfriend. “This piece receives a lot of activity on the website and is just about to go out to a customer on a remote Scottish Island, so it travels the length and breadth of the UK. This particular bag has also been rented by another customer wanting to try it out to see if she really liked it before buying her own.”
This is a great tip if you're looking to invest in an expensive designer item. If you're not sure how a new bag will fit in with your existing wardrobe, try renting the style you like before purchasing to help you workout if it's really worth the investment.
Boite Chapeau fashion editor picks
RRP: $2,910 / £2,020 | The gold-embossed luggage tag adds to the elegance of this crossbody bag. As one of the best crossbody bags, this is perfect for those who like smaller styles.
RRP: $25,100 (US only) | One of the pricier handbags on the Louis Vuitton website, this white leather bag features sheepskin lining and a white leather exterior with chic luggage tag.
RRP: $2,570 / £1,780 | Perfect if you want to give your on-the-go bag an extra personal touch, you can add a bespoke selection of labels and stickers to this mini hat box style design.
5. Louis Vuitton Keepall
If you’re after a bag that’s traveled the world, Louis Vuitton’s Keepall has been at the sides of globetrotters since 1930. A duffle bag in the most sophisticated sense of the word, the almost cylindrical shape leaves maximum room for all your essentials. Rogers says, "Think chic travel and spa weekends with your Louis Vuitton Keepall. A larger version of the Speedy used for travel, I love mine for being hardwearing and accompanying me on all my trips!"
The exact dimensions and finer details vary ever-so-slightly depending on the version you choose. The good news is that there are plenty of options when it comes to size, depending on how light, or heavy, you like to travel. In most incarnations of this bag, there’s a choice of two straps (handles or a detachable crossbody) and of course, the brand’s signature padlock, sealing its place as one of the best Louis Vuitton bags and one of the most stylish travel companions. Roomy enough to fit the essentials, including any of the best travel pillows all you need to is to decide on which of the best places to travel in 2022 you're heading to.
Keepall fashion editor picks
RRP: $2,440 /£1,690 | An adjustable crossbody strap means this can be easily altered for the perfect fit. Use to stash your gym kit or for weekends away.
RRP: $2,640 / £2,110 | Streamlined packers will easily be able to fit a week's worth of clothing in this bag. And you can get it personalized, too.
RRP: $3,250 / £2,250 | Part of the NIGO® x Louis Vuitton capsule collection, this iteration features a logo strap for a sporty update and orange highlights for a pop of color.
6. Louis Vuitton Noé
Of all the best Louis Vuitton bags on this list, the Noé really is a bag after our hearts. It’s a reimagining of a 1932 design by Gaston-Louis Vuitton, the grandson of the brand’s founder. Rogers adds "Produced in all the LV leathers and sizes the Noé is a true classic. Originally produced to carry Champagne bottles, this bag is now a best seller and can be found in all enviable handbag collections."
Now, while we wouldn’t recommend keeping a bottle of fizz in any designer bag, the modern version is more than sturdy enough, with a bonded lining and roomy bucket shape. One of the most relaxed styles in the Louis Vuitton collection, this is a true, throw-on-and-go bag. This style would work really well as a 21st birthday gift too.
Noé fashion editor picks
RRP: $1,620 / £1,130 | A smaller version of a classic, this version has just enough space for your phone, purse, and lipstick. A great everyday bag and one of the best bags around. The cord closure allows you to keep your items secure, while the monogram exterior makes it undeniably Vuitton.
RRP: $3,100 / £2,160 | The drawstring closure and roomy shape make this bag perfect for everyday wear. The striking cream and black color palette give this bag instant summer appeal and the add another layer of luxe to what promises to already be one of the best Louis Vuitton bags in any collection.
RRP: $2,580 / £1,800 | Embrace the sunnier weather with a pink hued Louis Vuitton bag. Ideal for pairing with your best pink dresses, buy into this season's most loved color. Part of the Summer Stardust collection, the bag has lovely lustre finish. Carry by the top handle or crossbody, depending on occasion.
7. Louis Vuitton Twist
A departure from the brand’s signature monogram print and roomy shapes, the Twist is neat, compact, and available in an assortment of colorful shades and patterns. There are neutrals too of course, in a muted palette of black, brown, and beige. The focal point of this best Louis Vuitton bag is of course the twist lock, which creates an overlapping LV when closed, and a double V when open.
The Twist tends to have two chain straps, but some versions have leather instead. "The twist lock on this bag is a chic take on the classic LV logo. It is one of the most iconic LV bags of modern times!" says Rogers.
Louis Vuitton Twist fashion editor picks
RRP: $4,700 / £3,300 | Carry with the crossbody chain for the day, before switching to the chain grab handle for the night. This neutral style will never date and be used all year. Team with fellow neutrals or bright block color.
RRP: $5,300 / £3,650 | Why have one, when you can have two. This versatile bag can be worn as one piece or two, giving you multiple ways to wear and doubling the usage. We love the striking color combo.
RRP: $5,000 / £3,450 | Get summer ready with this smart raffia bag. One of the best Louis Vuitton bags for summer, this shoulder style features a directional chunky chain and statement gold emblem frontage.
8. Louis Vuitton Bréa
One of the best Louis Vuitton bags for everyday use, the Louis Vuitton Bréa offers a fresh take on a doctor’s bag. It’s practical and spacious, with smart leather grab handles ready to set off at a moment's notice. "With a vintage style and secure closure, this is the best LV bag for work. It will fit your laptop and takes you easily from the office to cocktails," adds Rogers.
Unfortunately, the Bréa is no longer produced, making it that bit trickier to get your mitts on a mint condition version of this iconic style. At the time of writing, there was a range of pre-loved Bréa’s available online, with prices as low as $400 (£300) on Vestiaire Collective.
Bréa fashion editor picks
RRP: $1,061.96 / £1,200 | The patent fabric has been carefully embossed with the Louis Vuitton logo. This pre-loved style is one to snap up ASAP.
RRP: £776.18 / £649.62 | In pillar box red, this style is sure to make a statement. Reminiscent of this season's Prada tote, it has a roomy interior, perfect for all the essentials.
RRP: $1,582.68 / £1,100 | A beautiful and classic design that is sure to stand the test of time, this can be carried by the short handles or crossbody.
9. Louis Vuitton Petite Malle
Translated as “little trunk”, this bag is a shrunken down version of the designer’s iconic trunks, trimmings, and all - from the s-lock to the polished metal finishings. The boxy design can be carried as a clutch or cross-body using the long strap so it’s super versatile too. A unique design with a nod to the history of the brand, it’s certainly one that will make a statement. For a more casual approach, look to the Souple silhouette for a softer shape that’s just as noteworthy.
Petite Malle Fashion Editor's Picks
RRP: $5,700 / £3,950 | Crafted from signature Epi leather, this simple yet effective silhouette makes a worthy addition to any collection. Famed for its luggage, the Petite Malle takes on the brand's classic trunk silhouette, shrinks it and reinvents it for the everyday. A design any fashion enthusiast will adore.
RRP: $5,700 / £3,950 | Quilting remains a key trend and this little trunk, part of the LV Match capsule collection is made from puffy monogram embossed leather. The white trim ensures the terracotta body really stands out - replicating the clay of a tennis court and the white lines of the court markings.
RRP: $11,800 (US only) | One of the most majestic bags in the current Vuitton collection, this iteration of the Petite Malle is certainly a collectors piece. With exquisite craftsmanship, the small clutch uses silver hardware on embossed leather. The mini trunk is ideal for a special occasion or evening out.
Are Louis Vuitton bags a good investment?
Like the best Chanel bags, Louis Vuitton bags are a good investment. Take really, really good care of your best Louis Vuitton bag and store it well, using the best bag organizing tips, and you may even find it becomes a shrewd investment. “Louis Vuitton tends to increase their prices by 2% to 25% each year, and that increase varies between styles and seasons,” explains Mahenoor. “The increase mostly applies to the iconic styles, which is why you could sell your classic Alma for exactly what you paid in a few years - maybe even more if you keep it in pristine condition.”
“Even better, if you were to purchase a recently-limited collaboration from the store directly, the item would then go for a premium on the resale market. This is usually thanks to the hype created around a collaboration, as well as the limited-run that would be available to just a few lucky buyers. A prime example of this would be the Louis Vuitton x Supreme collaboration from 2017. A classic Keepall from that collaboration can fetch roughly £6,000.” An impressive figure, and one that seems almost conservative when we find one on sale for almost $30,000 (that's in excess of £21,000) from a well-known designer outlet.
However, Lipfriend argues it's important to exercise some caution when investing in a Louis Vuitton bag with the hope of re-selling. The bag expert is dubious about the potential for your best Louis Vuitton bag to increase in value in some instances. “Much is written about resale values and there is the notion that expensive bags only go up in value. I think this is misleading as there are so many variables. For example, with Louis Vuitton monogram pieces, much depends on the rarity of the shape. There is usually a commission to pay for resale too, which can be as much as 40% of the sales price. As with all things I would advise customers to buy what they love and look after it well.”
Louis Vuitton Bags loved by celebrities
Venus Williams
Tennis star Venus Williams attended the S/S 2021 show in top-to-toe Louis Vuitton. With an LV monogrammed jacket, matching lace-up boots, and bag with a mini purse attached, Venus shows how much she loves the brand. The nostalgic chain handle shoulder bag is one you'll never tire of.
Elle Fanning
Actress Elle Fanning knows how to travel in style. Sporting the Louis Vuitton heritage collection with the Horizon 55 suitcase and Speedy 35 city bag, these customizable styles are now iconic to the brand. You can choose the interior color, and add stripes and initials just like Elle.
Kendall Jenner
Model Kendall Jenner always carries an 'It' bag and one of her styles of choice is the Louis Vuitton x Stephen Sprouse design that adds instant nostalgia to any outfit. Bringing back a hint of the '00s, the collaboration first launched as part of the S/S 2001 show and has since been sought after by A-listers. Found pre-loved at the likes of Vestiaire Collective and Farfetch, the styles have LV's signature baguette-style combined with designer Stephen Sprouse's graphic graffiti logos.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
A throwback to 2009, British model Rosie-Huntington Whiteley showed her love for one of the key styles—the Noé. Styling the burgundy bucket with a classic 'nice' top and jeans combo, this style has proven it's an iconic shape that'll never date. You can snap up a similar style over at second-hand luxury site Vestiaire Collective—if you're quick!
Laura Harrier
Actor Laura Harrier is a Louis Vuitton ambassador so naturally, she attended an LV show dressed in the brand. Showing us all how to wear a full white look (with a touch of metallic), Laura let her bag be the center of attention. The bag in question was from the 2021 Cruise collection featuring card suits including heart prints. You can shop a similar pre-owned style at Farfetch from the 2010 collection.
Where is the best place to buy a Louis Vuitton bag?
There are a few different ways to invest in the best Louis Vuitton bag. The first is directly from the brand, or alternatively, you could pick one up from a designer department store such as Harrods or Fenwicks.
Prices range from around $800 to $5,500 (£565 to £4,000). If you’re not willing or able to pay full price, it is possible to find a cheap Louis Vuitton bag on resale sites. Just be wary of authenticity, and always buy through reputable outlets. “Louis Vuitton is a much-faked brand,” adds Lipfriend, so do your research to ensure you’re not being duped.
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