The best designer bags to invest in are something you'll never regret buying. While each season ushers in new trends, the best designer bags remain wearable and timeless for years to come. And if you're looking for a designer bag that holds its value, then this is the place to start.
Considered an investment buy over an impulse purchase, the best designer bags can set you back thousands, so doing your research is always a good idea. The handbag trends 2023, have ushered in new trending styles, and although some of these will reach cult classic status, if you're looking for a timeless buy that will retain its value at resell, there are some labels that you can always rely on. From the best Chanel bags to the best Gucci bags - we're looking at you Marmont - unless you're buying to later sell, your designer bag purchase will largely be down to aesthetics and occasion.
Designers use seasonal runway shows to preview their latest bags, with new shapes and elevated fabrications and embellishments, but if you're purchasing for investment or longevity, opt for neutral hues, or designs that have been on the market for a number of years, as these are often the most popular and savviest style choice. From the latest looks to classic silhouettes that the best in the business have been selling for seasons, there is a designer bag for every taste. So, whether you’ve got your eye on a relatively new to the market, puffy Coach Pillow bag, want to go timeless with a retro Dior Saddle Bag, or a party ready McQueen clutch, prepare to meet your new handbag hero. Here's everything you need to know about the best designer bags to invest in.
The best designer bags to buy now
This edit of the best designer bags is packed full of beautiful, solid investment pieces that won't go out of style. A mixture of new hero pieces that have excited style experts and style staples that have remained some of the most sought after pieces, these designer bags are ones that will stand the test of time and are synonymous with luxury and sartorial elegance. They are bags you can wear year in year out, and many are seasonless too, allowing you to have a better cost per wear potential.
While we have not rigorously tested each bag, our selection of the best designer bags does take into account the most popular styles from leading and well regarded accessory and fashion brands. Furthermore we have spoken to fashion editors who own a number of the bags in the list to get their honest opinion on their purchases.
When selecting the best designer bags we're focused on pieces that utilize high quality fabrications and hardware as well as taking into account the designer brand's reputation and the styles longevity and notoriety.
If you're debating whether to invest in a designer bag or not, it's important to remember that designer bag prices, particularly of classic styles tend to go up every season, meaning that the most staple of designer bags naturally increase in price and value year on year. As we are now in 2023, we expect to see some bags increase in price, and have already begun to see slight up tick in costs on some of the best designer bags. This means you'll want to invest in the best designer bags sooner rather than later, but the good news is that the constant increase in price year on year will help your original purchase hold its value.
Y2K trends are back with a bang and with that comes plenty of nostalgic designs reinvented for the modern-day, including this iconic silhouette from Italian clothing brand Prada. Brought to fame in the early '00s, this updated design is made from Re-Nylon, produced from recycled, purified plastic trash collected from the oceans, fishing nets, and textile waste fibers.
This bag made its debut last year to much fanfare and this re-worked silhouette shows no sign of slowing down and all the hallmarks of becoming a future classic, making it a designer bag to invest in. Available in eight different colorways, from seasonless neutrals to trend-led yellow, we can see this becoming a bag that will hold its value in years to come.
It’s lightweight, durable, and has a vintage feel to it - thanks to the archive design aesthetic. As the bag is made from recycled materials, it's also a great choice if you're not keen on buying leather products, but still want to have a high-end designer handbag. Due to the fact it's not a leather design, the bag is considerably lower cost than most Prada handbags, so if this is the designer bag brand you want, this is a great and iconic piece to start your collection with.
Decorated with the signature enamelled metal triangle logo there are plenty of dreamy shades to choose from and for this season a real emphasis on neutral and pastel shades - which will go with pretty much any outfit. Due to the re-nylon fabric it might not have the most polished of finishes, but its mini stature does make it ideal for those days when you just want the essentials to hand.
British clothing brand, Mulberry creates high quality, leather brands, made in England at its factory in Somerset. The iconic Bayswater was launched in 2003 and since then has become one of the brand's best selling and most loved designs. One of the best designer tote bags, the silhouette itself has been tweaked and altered over the years but it has always remained a chic and stylish, classic, everyday bag that will polish off any outfit. A cross between a satchel and a tote, this bag has a naturally smart finish and comes in numerous colors and finishes reflecting the fashion color trends 2023.
Available in 13 colorways, tan is a great investment thanks to its neutral, go-with-everything hue and a color that works all year through and . With a width of 36cm, it's just over 14 inches, meaning it will fit a small laptop or tablet, alongside other daily essential - making it ideal as part of your work outfits. With a secure postman's lock, a signature design of the brand, it also has two slip pockets, a main compartment and an inner zipped pocket too. The four base feet will stop the bottom from getting too worn or scratched. A shoulder bag design, this isn't one for those who demand a totally hands-free finish, but it is one of the most practical and hardwearing designer bags around.
"I'm a big fan of Mulberry handbags in general as I find them really hardwearing. The softer leather iterations in particular can take everything my day throws at it and wear well. There are so many iconic Mulberry bags, that it's hard to pick just one. However if you want a smaller crossbody, I love my Darley (opens in new tab) for everyday, on-the-go ease and style in one," says woman&home fashion editor, Rivkie Baum
As far as the best beach bags go, there’s nothing more coveted - and copied - than this Loewe design, which is a constant sell-out every season and as we hurtle towards the spring/summer season, this bag, that may have been in hibernation for the last six months is set to be back with a bang in the coming months. The perfect partner to your best midi dress, a rattan or straw bag is a summer icon and with the added Loewe branding, this is the summer designer bag to invest in.
Quite the style essential and whether you opt for this beauty as your everyday tote bag, or reserve it for a beach vacation, you’re guaranteed to rely on this beauty every time the sun rears its head. With smart, high-end tan leather trim, this designer bag is a step towards discovering what is cottagecore, with its yesteryear basket silhouette, made modern through the engraved Loewe leather panelling.
One of the best Spanish clothing brands, Loewe might not be the traditional brand you think of when considering the best designer bags, but they are one of the most innovative labels on the market, garnering quite a cult following amongst fashion fans.
More affordable than many of the best designer bag brands, if you're looking for one of the best luxury bags to start your collection, this now classic design is under the $650 / £500 mark, making it one worth considering.
If you want to learn how to dress like Carrie Bradshaw, then you should note that the Dior Saddle Bag was one of Carrie's favorites. Coveted by all of us, the Dior Saddle Bag was the ‘It’ bag for years, but despite its popularity, the brand eventually ceased production of the shape causing resale demand to rise.
Fast-forward to 2018 when Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri sent a re-imagined version of this classic down the runway, and the Saddle Bag 2.0 was born. The beautifully curved shape might have remained the same, but this time it’s not just about canvas and embroidery, but shiny goat leather too, all complete with the iconic stirrup ‘D’ closure.
With a top grab handle and a shoulder strap, this bag has a highly elegant finish, particularly in black leather and will of course be wearable with almost anything. While the micro version (which starts from just over $2,000 / £1,950) makes for a great evening piece, the larger design (from $4,000 / £3,250) is a smart bag for everyday, although we'd understand if you'd want to keep it for special occasions.
This design is available in seven colorways, covering everything from yellow and khaki to neutral white, black and navy tones. One of the best French clothing brands, Dior is iconic and this timeless piece is a designer bag that can certainly be filed under investment piece.
The best designer card wallets and purses from Dior offer a more accessible price point if you're looking for a place to start. It's also worth checking out resale sites, many of who will carry the original Saddle Bag designs for dedicated collectors.
The Jackie has been one of Gucci’s hero bags for decades. Named after Jackie Kennedy in the sixties, it was reintroduced for Fall Winter 2020 and has been top of its game ever since, highlighting as a designer bag worthy of investment.
It has a curved half-moon shape and buckle closure and features an additional shoulder strap so you can wear it crossbody or carry by the top handle. Perfect if you’re after something slightly bigger than the Marmont, it's available in five shades, from white to a deep red, emerald green and both black patent and grain leather.
With gold hardware and a striking piston closure this bag dances the line between statement and discreet. Unlike many of Gucci's stylish incarnations, the Jackie is only obviously Gucci if you know about the best designer bags, otherwise, it's simply a chic everyday piece.
The bag is unlined and has two interior pockets, one open and one with a zip closure, for easy interior organisation. A beautifully crafted bag, focusing on clean, classic design and unfussy lines, it marries form and function without feeling trend heavy.
Relatively young by iconic bag standards, Loewe’s gorgeously geometric Puzzle Bag was dreamt up by Creative Director Jonathan Anderson in 2014. Proving early on that his appointment was a very good move by the company, in fact, the Puzzle bag was actually the very first piece he designed. Not only can it be worn in an impressive four different ways, from shoulder bag to clutch, but it also folds completely flat for easy storage. Nearly all Puzzles are made from buttery-soft calfskin, but the grain can vary from style to style.
A compact design the Puzzle bag in small can hold all mobile phone sizes (when did they get so big again?), sunglasses and a large wallet - so not bags of space but enough for the essentials. It has one exterior zip pock and an interior slip pocket to help you keep your items accessible, as well as an overall secure zip fastening to the main compartment.
The bag, like many of the classics has seen some recent style updates too and you can now buy additional monogrammed crossbody straps baring LOEWE written on repeat in three different colorways.
Easy to get your hands on, buy direct from Loewe or through several high end retail partners. Prices start at £1,700 for a mini and climb to £2,600 for the larger, classic design.
The Cassette isn’t the only Bottega Veneta bag on the coveted designer bag scene. Since its launch in 2020, the Jodie has been seen everywhere and the instantly recognizable bag has triggered many a replica from straight to market brands.
Deserving a spot on the list - because you know a bag is a cult item when it inspires so many other bags, it's much slouchier than the Cassette but still uses the now Veneta synonymous woven structure. With an oversized knot to one size, it's more of a grab top handle bag or on the crook of your elbow rather than a shoulder bag.
And while the Jodie has reached peak cult status, the top handle structure also dips into one of the big fashion trends 2023 when it comes to handbag styles for the year ahead.
Available in a rainbow of hues and fabrications, when it comes to the Jodie mini there are at least 57 interpretations of the design, including woven (with 30 color options) and directional faux fur iterations. We highly rate the mini silhouette for the perfect evening bag that still packs a punch. With a single compartment (with zip closure) - it's ideal for essentials only.
One of the best YSL bags, the LouLou Toy Leather Crossbody Bag is named after Yves Saint Laurent’s muse Loulou de la Falaise. A design staple, this simple but impressive designer crossbody bag is universally loved and a favorite amongst the fashion crowd for its directional quilting, but equally timeless design. While the bag comes in numerous colors, it's the black with statement gold YSL monogram that really stands out for us and makes this bag suitable for all occasions, AM-PM.
With Saint Laurent's natural rock and roll appeal, this bag is guaranteed to add sartorial elegance with an edge to everything from your favorite LBD to a casual jeans, tee and leather jacket combo. Made from buttery-soft, 100% calfskin leather, the gold front metal hardware ensures everyone knows what excellent taste you have.
Despite its relatively small footprint this crossbody bag is packed full of practicality. Featuring two compartments, a zip pocket, three slip pockets and two card pockets, its small but mighty on the organisation front.
A long-term investment, this practical purchase promises to never go out of date and is still very much a sought after piece, should you ever choose to part ways.
"The best things in life are free. The second-best things are very, very expensive." - is one of our favorite Coco Chanel quotes and feels very apt indeed when talking about Chanel's infamous 2.55 Flap Bag. The bag that spurned a thousand copies, it's easily one of the best designer bags ever made and one of the most instantly identifiable too.
Created by Gabrielle Chanel in February 1955, it stands out thanks to its simple yet effective rectangle shape and signature quilting. Black leather is the classic choice, while seasonal tweed or color-pop options offer a more fashion-forward take. You can browse online via Chanel’s website, but for the widest choice of sizes, colors, and fabrications, it’s best to visit one of its boutiques - as Chanel does not retail online. Prices start at around $4,400 / £3,650 for a mini version and rise to in excess of $9,500 / £7,550 for a maxi version.
One of the most iconic designer bags in existence, the Chanel 2.55, well maintained will always have a good resale value, and with prices expected to continue to rise, the resell market is incredibly lucrative. If your dream is to own a Chanel 2.55, investing as soon as you can is our advice.
A luxury design house, Chanel doesn't take part in any of the best designer outlets either, so there is no opportunity for a discounted version we're afraid, if you're investing in a Chanel handbag, you'll have to go all in. And if you're thinking about a second-hand variety, its bags tend to hold their value or increase. If you are looking to purchase a vintage or second-hand design, make sure to purchase it from a reputable source.
It’s almost impossible to put together a round-up of the best designer bags without including Hermés. The Birkin might be the A-list-approved bag that first springs to mind, but for real glamour, Kelly has our vote. First created by Robert Dumas, the son-in-law of Emile Hermés, the grandson of founder Thierry Hermés, it gained real notoriety when worn by Hollywood legend Grace Kelly. Rumour has it that the actress, and Princess of Monaco, used the bag to conceal her pregnancy in the late 1950s, and as a result, it was renamed in her honor.
Effortlessly elegant, the real beauty of Kelly is in its simplicity. It won’t date with trends, so you can rest assured this is a bag you’ll love to use for years to come. Unfortunately, getting your hands on a Hermés bag is not as easy as heading to the store. Not everyone who wants one is approved to buy one, and even if you do make it onto the coveted shortlist, you can still face a long wait. As a result, the resale market is booming, so buying second-hand might just be your best bet (make sure the bag has been authenticated by an expert). Exact prices are hard to come by, but depending on the leather you choose, a Kelly bag bought directly from Hermés will set you back upwards of £6,000.
Gucci handbags have seen an increased demand over the past couple of years with a rise in sales and searches (especially after the release of House of Gucci), and the classic GG Marmont is one of the most sought-after styles.
Small but mighty, this compact crossbody camera bag is incredibly versatile. With a quilted finish, it features a chain and leather strap, as well as the brand's distinctive gold-tone logo plaque, making it instantly recognizable. It comes in 8 variations, including pillar box red and a floral print, but we think simple black is the way to go if you’re looking for longevity.
One of the best crossbody bags on the market, the classic GG Marmont is a great style for everyday. Leaving you hands free, it has just enough space for the essentials and if you opt for a neutral hue it will pair effortlessly with work and evening outfits. The unmistakable double GG logo has been the source of design inspiration for numerous straight to market brands, but nothing comes close to the real deal.
Loved by style experts, fashion editor Antonia Kraskowski (opens in new tab) is rarely spotted without her trusty Marmont: "My Gucci GG Marmont matelassé mini bag is one of my most loved and used crossbody bags. Although tiny, it's surprisingly mighty when it comes to what you can fit in it plus it's essentially two bags in one. One side has the GG gold metal emblem and chevron design while the other has a more subtle stitched logo, perfect for those days when I want something a little more low key. While it might be an investment, it hasn't fallen apart despite my best efforts of wearing it daily and the price has only gone up, meaning that if I dare to part with it, the resale value will be around what it cost new a few years ago."
Originally created for travelers in the 1930s, Louis Vuitton Speedy is one of the best Louis Vuitton bags and remains a sought-after purchase for all those after a timeless design from the French clothing brand.
Elegant yet sporty, the almost bowling bag shape means it’s roomy enough for all your essentials, while the signature rolled leather handles ensure maximum comfort. The little details count, too, like the luxe engraved padlock, adding that finishing touch. If you're not one for traveling light, opt for a larger size, such as the Louis Vuitton Speedy 40 (opens in new tab) which will make one of the best weekend bags.
Take advantage of the ergonomic design, as the Speedy comes with a crossbody strap for easy wear - making it a great bag when deciding what to wear on a plane too. While the best designer bags still have a level of exclusivity, the Speedy benefits from the fact that a number of styles can be personalized with colored stripes and your initials via Louis Vuitton’s online store or in its boutiques. This means that your designer bag can be unique to you. Prices for the Speedy collection - which is constantly being refreshed with new colors each season, range from $1,550 for the Speedy 30 Bag to $1,820 for the 40.
A sportier feel, this is definitely a day bag, wearable for both work and casual occasions. Instantly recognizable by the LV monogram, it's a great piece if you like to make a statement.
New for 2023, try the Speedy Bandoulière 25 bag that is part of the second Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama collection (opens in new tab). The Japanese artist is known for her colorful array of dots and this has been used to add bursts of mood boosting brightness to the classic Speedy 25, as well as form part of an installation at designer store Harrods (opens in new tab), in Knightsbridge in the UK. And while the designs might be a twist on the classics we have seen unusual Louis Vuitton bags hold their value at resale.
Jacquemus is a master at creating sell-out, cult buys, but none have been quite as successful and more invested in than the tiny Le Chiquito bags. Never in stock for long, this is one style that literally flies off the shelves. Starter of the tiny handbag trend, you can just about squeeze your essentials into the Le Chiquito as long as you plan to carry your phone for the rest of the evening. Very much an iconic designer buy for the Instagram and TikTok generation, Jacquemus is a master of scale - having previously bestowed oversized totes and huge floppy hats on the world of fashion too.
The Le Chiquito comes in every color imaginable, including WGSN Color of the Year 2023, 'Digital Lavender', and with a mid range price point for a designer brand, Jacquemus hits that sweet spot where dedicated fans won't just buy one. A great first designer bag buy, it is wearable on the shoulder, crossbody or carried by the statement, curled top handle. This bag is very much of the here and now, where its future goes, only time will tell. Ideal as an evening bag, there are larger versions of the style, but it's the micro version that has the biggest cult following.
An ‘It’ bag if ever there was one, Phillip Lim’s Pashli has been proudly carried by the likes of Emma Roberts and Reese Witherspoon so you’re in good company with this accessory. It’s spawned plenty of copies too, but there’s nothing quite like the real deal.
Instantly recognizable by its side zip detail, the bag is crafted from super soft leather and is completed with high quality finishes for a luxurious satchel design that you'll reach for again and again. With the option of carrying three ways - grab handle, tucked under your arm, or crossbody, this cute mini bag has a preppy feel, adding edge to everyday and evening looks. The push lock and flap closure will keep your essentials safe and secure.
In a choice of four neutral hues, this is a bag you can wear all year through and will weave easily into your existing wardrobe.
Taking the humble saddlebag and transforming it into a cult buy is no mean feat but fashion house Chloé nailed it with this beauty. Rivalling Dior for the most recognizable saddle bag, the Marcie is the perfect embodiment of what is boho style. With a cool, laidback, '70s bohemian vibe, we love the statement stitching and chic tassel finish. The brass hardware and subtle branding is ideal for those who want a luxe bag that doesn't feel 'too showy' or heavily monogrammed.
Wearable crossbody or as a shoulder bag, it's crafted from a sumptuous combo of suede and calfskin leather. While the mini design is obviously a little more price friendly, if the size is just too small for your everyday, the Marcie also comes in a larger tote silhouette too.
More of an everyday piece, we wouldn't recommend this for an evening look as it has a much more practical and on-the-go feel to it and will instantly elevate your favorite jeans or pretty, boho, long skirt outfits.
Dolce & Gabbana’s Sicily remains consistently popular for its classic ladylike silhouette and elegant aesthetic. Its structured shape makes it smart enough to pass off as an evening bag, yet practical for the daytime too.
Available in an array of colors with everything from sunshine yellow to a gorgeous forest green. The classic, almost vintage like aesthetic of this bag means it won't go out of style, but for a versatile buy away from black opt for the chic and equally timeless red hue instead. It will go with everything but it will feel fresh and different too.
Featuring a front flap with a hidden press-stud fastening, it has a branded plate on the front for that luxe designer finish. The top handle is adjustable for a comfortable carry and their are inner pockets with branded zippers and a cell phone holder - so you can keep everything tidy inside your bag too. The metal feet on the base will stop scratching on the base of the bag, making it more robust than many designer bag choices. Adding a feminine feel to tailored outfits, it's an ideal choice for formal occasions such as what to wear to a job interview - pairing well with blazers and the best shirt dresses. Alternatively opt for brighter and bolder hues for a great wedding guest bag.
The Balenciaga Classic City bag was a must-have in the early noughties. Worn by everyone from Paris Hilton to the Olsen twins, it’s still a coveted style today thanks to its versatility and timeless design and of course, the return of a noughties nostalgia. It has come in many variations over the years, from hot pink to graffiti print for a real statement-maker but the simple black still remains top of its game.
Featuring two top handles as well as a crossbody strap, buckle-embellished trims, front zip-fastening compartment and metal hardware with the brand's logo, this classic black iteration has a glossy finish for a smart take that still taps into Balenciaga's rock and roll aesthetic - it's high fashion with an edge.
A great everyday bag, this might not take you to a black tie event, but it will take you basically anywhere else. It's only downside is its relatively small size, as its design makes it appear chunkier and more robust.
Intricately woven from either high-quality leather or suede, Bottega Veneta’s cult Cassette Bag comes in a range of incarnations. From mini to large in size, the statement style is easy to dress up or down.
Keep it simple with the slim and structured original, beautifully finished with a magnetic clasp closure and narrow shoulder strap. Or if you prefer a more statement look, try the pillowy, puffy Padded Cassette or the lavish Chain option - all of which have been spotted slung over the arms of fashion editors in all the major style cities.
The color range is vast, too, with a rainbow array of shades - from dopamine dressing brights to muted neutrals (such as this Porridge hue) and classic black, this bag is all about the style and craftsmanship over the color as that's what makes it utterly distinctly Bottega Veneta. While this bag hasn't been around for long, it has made a huge impact and the fanfare shows no signs of abating anytime soon.
Another iconic '90s and '00s bag that’s enjoyed a recent renaissance, is the Fendi Baguette Bag, which made a welcome return to the fashion scene, bigger and more loved than every before. While the term baguette previously meant one specific style of bag, the term ‘Baguette’ now encompasses a whole family of luxury bags, with the iconic shape reimagined in a range of different sizes, strap options, and colorways.
The rectangular original remains instantly recognizable, the perfect shape to sit prettily and comfortably beneath your arm. And, never one to scrimp on branding, all bags in the Baguette family carry Fendi’s gold logo hardware too - iconic of the nineties brand obsessed era.
Prices start at £630 for the Nano Baguette Charm, seemingly a too good to be true price, it’s only big enough to hold a single lipstick - however if you're looking to start your collection and just need something small for a wedding or evening event - it's a great choice - there are some pretty special leather and sequin iterations available for the festive season ahead, that will add some powerful sparkle to your look.
The average Fendi Baguette bag is upwards and around the £2,000 mark, with a crocodile skin version ringing in at £19,000. This is a cult bag, recognizable and loved by a generation and currently garnering a new fan base too. One that is sure to stick around, if you invested the first time round, your bag will likely carry a great resale value if in a good condition, but if you're longing for it now, you've been gifted a second chance.
While there are certainly some big hitters in the designer bag market, Celine always feels a little bit more discreet. The label loved by those who truly treasure fashion, effortless style and timeless design. A Celine bag is one to buy now and pass on through the generations. Always toeing the line between classic and contemporary, the brand are masterful when it comes to clean curved lines and beautiful, art deco style clasp closures. So much so, we know that its pared-pack aesthetic will never go out of style.
The newer Triomphe has been quite a hit with the style set, and while it's newer to the market, it still has that certain French, vintage charm that makes the brand's pieces so stand out. The crossbody strap makes it easy to wear, and the large decorative metal fastening adds the luxe factor. Crafted from calfskin with a lambskin lining, it isn't just beautiful, it's practical too, with three inner compartments and an inner zipped pocket.
Incredibly chic, you can snap it up in 7 different colors - we love this pebble grey hue as it will work with neutrals and brighter outfits but makes a change from black and tan iterations.
A roomy tote bag is a sartorial savior when we’re struggling to cram all our belongings into a neat little crossbody. But if you thought a tote bag wasn’t glamorous, be prepared to be proved wrong with this sought-after design from Dior. Putting a luxurious spin on the carry-all, the Dior Book Tote holds all the daily essentials and makes a serious style statement. Loved by fashion editors, woman&home's fashion director, Paula Moore is a big fan of the Dior Book Tote,
"They offer free personalization for an extra unique touch. It’s really sturdy and I love the classic navy and off-white colorway as it goes with my summer wardrobe (and doesn’t show the dirt!) I don’t have to be too precious with it and I use it every day to get my money's worth with the price per wear. From a supermarket shop to a day on the beach, it’s my plus one all year round."
Adorned with the Christian Dior Paris signature on the front, it comes in an array of different prints and colorways and it’s available in three sizes-small, medium, and large - to suit you and your lifestyle. It’s time to replace the flimsy cotton tote with something a little more indulgent.
If there’s one bag that has taken the social media world by storm it’s the Pillow Tabby bag from designer Coach. Championed by some of the best fashion bloggers across the world and featuring the likes of Jennifer Lopez in its campaign, it’s no wonder it was one of the most coveted bags of 2022 and its fashion currency continues in to 2023. Infusing the structured silhouette of the archival 1970s design with a fluffy cloud-like Nappa leather exterior, it taps into that comfy loungewear trend we’ve all been accustomed to these past few years. It has plenty of space for all the essentials, without looking too bulky and can be worn Y2K style on the shoulder or crossbody for a hands-free approach.
Available for this season in black, deep red and a spring-read white hue, the pillow bag remains a popular shape with fashion editors and fashion fans.
Featuring the brand's signature V shaped quilting this designer bag is a modern classic. A relatively new release (2018), this Louis Vuitton bag has quickly become a favorite amongst editors and fashion fans alike. Swapping out the classic LV monogram for a sleek, block color, quilted alternative, the New Wave feels a little more dressy, taking you from AM to PM with ease.
The chain shoulder strap is something of hallmark for some of the best designer bags, but we love that the New Wave also has a leather panel to make carrying the bag on your shoulder a more comfortable experience. With striking LV hardware on the front of the bag, this Louis Vuitton number is a must-buy for Vuitton fans but is also a great purchase for those looking for a statement purse design that won't go out of style.
The flap closure adds extra security for your belongings, and the bag features a zipped central compartment as well as two additional compartments. Buttery soft, the quilt detailing does add bulk, although it still sits comfortably on a shoulder, carried as a clutch or as a crossbody bag.
The knuckleduster bag was launched back in 2009 and while it has seen numerous evolutions in its time, the core principle and aesthetics of the bag remain the same. With the British designer brand's usual charm and cheekiness, the bag incorporates a piece of knuckleduster hardware, that takes on the form of rings, for a truly show-stopping look. A now iconic design, this bag style is a constant in the range.
From small box bag designs to larger crossbody style silhouettes - with an additional shoulder strap for easy wear, the bag rarely carries the brand's name or initials, as the ring handle design is so utterly iconic, marking it out instantly as a McQueen piece. A design for special occasions, rather than every day, there is a host of colors, fabrications and silhouettes to choose from.
One of the best Italian clothing brands, Valentino is always a label to watch when it comes to both fashion and accessories. The instigator of many a trending style, Valentino dominated the past 12 months thanks to the pink color palette in its last collection that spurred a host of spin-off trends.
The Roman Stud collection is iconic, and the oversized embellishment decorates numerous bag silhouettes for a look that is instantly recognizable as Valentino. Similarly to McQueen, Valentino doesn't plaster its branding across bags, but relies on this iconic symbolism to identify its bag.
Reinvented each season in new colors and fabrications, of course a timeless black version will always be a constant in the collection and the most likely candidate to hold its value.
One of the most iconic fashion prints of all time, the Burberry check is instantly identifiable as belonging to the heritage British fashion label. Utilized throughout the brand's collection, from linings on Burberry trench coats, to tops and bags, the print fell out of favor for several seasons, only returning to the brand as a front-and-center signature in recent years.
This tan leather-edged bag with canvas-printed panels is a smart tote bag, ideal for daily commutes. With both a top carry handle and a crossbody strap, this bag can be carried in multiple ways depending on the occasion and your need for hands-free access.
With camel one of the biggest color trends of the season, this bag will pair easily with a host of neutral outfits to see you through the season in style. The classic and timeless Burberry check print will keep this investment piece current and in demand.
Why are designer bags so expensive?
With one of the best designer bags to invest in, you’re not just paying for the logo, it's about the time it’s taken to piece your new purchase together and the quality of the materials involved in the construction too.
Take Loewe’s Puzzle Bag, for example. Epitomizing the level of craftsmanship that goes into making designer bags, this design takes an eye-watering 524 steps to complete. And of course, it's crafted from soft and buttery, high-quality leather - meaning the components are costly too.
And flying the flag for full supply-chain transparency, Mulberry has been a member of the Leather Working Group since 2012. This first ensures that all of its leathers are a by-product of food production and livestock are properly treated. If you’re looking to make more ethical fashion choices, you can’t put a price on that level of commitment.
In addition to this, the bags aren't as mass market as the ones from straight to market retailers and there's often more handcrafted detailing involved. This is highly skilled manufacture and that has to be factored into the retail value.
Can you rent a designer bag?
Yes! Renting one of the best designer bags has become increasingly popular. Some of the best designer dress rentals also loan accessories and it’s a good option if you want to either test the waters with a particular bag you’re looking to invest in, or you are looking to shop more sustainably. You can rent a bag for a week or so from companies such as BagButler, and then return it when you’re done. It’s cheaper than buying and perfect if you’re looking for a some beautiful arm candy for a party, wedding, or job interview. When you rent a designer bag, you can be a bit bolder with your choices too.
“The most popular brand across our selection is Chanel and the Lilac Mini Flap in particular. People are willing to invest in a classic black designer bag but fancy renting something more statement and colorful," says Tina Lipfriend, founder of BagButler.
“Chanel made the bold move of raising their prices by up to 17% during the first lockdown. This hasn’t dented the popularity but has definitely made renting a great option for many people."
As well as Chanel, Dior is also one of the most popular designers when it comes to borrowing a bag. “The other piece that customers absolutely love is the Lady Dior. The black Saddlebag tends to appeal to a younger audience (fashion students) whereas the lady Dior tends to be rented by professionals," adds Lipfriend.
Do the best designer bags go on sale?
Yes and no. The most exclusive luxury designer handbags and labels, like Hermés and Louis Vuitton, never go on sale. To grab yourself a cheap Louis Vuitton bag or equivalent, it's often a case of buying them secondhand from a reputable reseller (but be warned: they hold their resale value, so you won't save much).
However, many of the other luxury labels do tend to have seasonal discounts on their best designer bags. And some brands have sample sales or even have designer outlets, such as the Mulberry factory shop, where you can save hundreds of dollars/pounds.
Designer bags that hold their value
The best designer bags have the potential to become a beloved, hand-me-down piece. But, if you want to find yours a new home outside of your circle, there’s plenty of money to be made on resale websites if you have a classic bag that will hold its value. When it comes to designer resale sites, Farfetch and Vestiaire Collective are our top picks. So, what sells well on the sites?
"The best investments tend to be timeless pieces that will never go out of fashion," says Sophie Hersan (opens in new tab), co-founder of Vestiaire Collective (opens in new tab). "Hermes is still widely considered a good investment and continues to be one of our bestselling brands. Several styles are highly coveted, and the history of the company adds to the exclusivity. There’s a mystery around the bags which makes them even more sought after."
Some classic bag designs may increase over time simply due to inflation. Just this past year, luxury brands including Louis Vuitton and Chanel have bumped up prices due to lost spending caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Bags with restricted supply, like the Chanel 2.55 Flap Bag, or limited edition collections and colorways also go up in value simply because they are harder to get.
"Limited edition pieces are also something to consider when buying a handbag. Rarity drives up the price. A special colorway or limited edition collection for example increases demand," adds Sophie.
What to look for when buying a designer bag
The first thing to think about when buying a designer bag is what style of bag would be best for you and your lifestyle. If you spend your days commuting to an office and don't tend to frequent many evening events, then a tote bag, backpack or shoulder bag is likely to suit you best. Or if your days are spent out and about zipping from one place to the other, then a roomy crossbody bag could be your best option, as it allows you to travel around hands-free. When trying to select the best designer bag for you, try and think about the rest of your wardrobe when making your purchase as you'll want to pick a color and style that goes with the rest of your closet.
It's also good to look at practical aspects like whether the bag will be safe in the rain, how durable it feels and looks and how much you can fit in it. Pay attention to the quality of the material too. Look for equidistant and precise stitching around the corners, and neat and polished hardware.
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