Fashion trends come and go, but when it comes to wardrobe investments, there is nothing like a timeless designer bag. Many designer bags are considered collectors’ items and increase in value year after year. So, as long as you take good care of it, your investment will last you a lifetime. It may even be an item that you pass down through generations.
It can be daunting to know exactly which designer bag to invest in and which are likely to stand the test of time. The last thing you want to do is spend a fortune on a one-season wonder that will only end up gathering dust in the back of your wardrobe. To invest wisely, take a look at the classics. Bags that you have seen consistently over the years or decades. Or choose designs that look timeless – think classic colours, good-quality fabrics, and seasonless silhouettes.
To help you along the way I have rounded up 15 of the most popular designer bags from brands such as Chanel, Dior, Gucci, and Saint Laurent that will never be a regretful purchase.
Chanel Quilted Flap
Nothing screams luxury quite like a Chanel flap bag. First created by Coco Chanel herself in 1955, this bag quickly became a cult classic and a must-have for any fashion collector. The price point is on the high end, but you can be confident that your choice will never go out of style.
Dior Saddle
The Dior Saddle bag was debuted by John Galliano in 1999 and was the original noughties ‘It’ bag, beloved by icons such as Paris Hilton and Sarah Jessica Parker. The bag’s unique shape of an equestrian-inspired curve has made it one of the brand’s most recognisable designs. The sleek shoulder strap ensures that it works just as well during the day as it does for formal, evening ensembles.
Prada Cleo
A Prada Cleo is as chic as designer bags come. Though it was released in 2020, the bag is inspired by a 1990s style from the brand – so you can rest assured that this bag will retain its wearability. The black and white leather versions of the bag are of course timeless. But if you’re looking for something of a statement-maker then the Cleo with crystals is a winner.
Louis Vuitton Speedy
The Speedy was the first bag Louis Vuitton ever created in 1930 and was a hit from the start. Some of the most iconic women in history have carried this iconic bag – from Audrey Hepburn to Ashley Olsen. What makes the Speedy so great is that is lightweight and big enough to carry all of your essentials – making it the perfect travel companion.
Fendi Baguette
No list of the best designer bags would be complete without the ultimate It-girl party bag: the Fendi Baguette. Initially made popular in the 90s thanks to Sex and the City, the bag was a worldwide sell-out and is still the shoulder bag of choice for many. For most of the bags on this list, you may be inclined to invest in classic colours of black, white, and brown, but with the baguette, the crazier the design the better.
Gucci Jackie
Jackie Kennedy has long served as a fashion icon, so it is no surprise that Gucci would name a bag after her. Originally, the Gucci Jackie was named G1244 but was renamed to Jackie after the former First Lady who carried several styles during her lifetime. The crescent-shaped bag with its signature piston lock has been a staple part of the brand since its creation in 1961 and it’s not hard to see why. The style has been reinterpreted by every Gucci creative director and featured in countless runway shows over the last 60 years. If that doesn’t prove this is a timeless piece worth an investment, I don’t know what does.
Bottega Veneta Jodie
From the Gyoza to the Casette, one thing is for certain; Bottega knows how to do bags. The Jodie in particular is fast becoming fashion’s most in-demand accessory. Don’t believe me? All you have to do is open Instagram or Pinterest and I guarantee someone will be posing with a Jodie – likely in a range of bright and bold colours. The quality of the craftsmanship alone makes this bag a worthy investment. From the buttery soft intrecciato leather to the elevated shape; the popularity of this bag is not hard to understand.
Saint Laurent Kate
Close your eyes and picture a Saint Laurent bag. Chances are you’ll be picturing the Kate. Named of course after supermodel Kate Moss, this bag has been beloved since its creation in 2010. Able to be worn as both a clutch and across the body, this is a must-have party accessory. The key selling point is the iconic gold logo that is adorned on the front.
Hermès Birkin
A bag that is so famous it has been regarded as a better investment than gold. Birkin bags are considered valuable collector’s items, meaning its value is likely to increase over the years. In fact on average, the value of Birkins has risen by 16% year on year since 2016. A Birkin is arguably the ultimate designer handbag if you can get your hands on one! They are notoriously hard to get hold of, it can take years on waiting lists. Not prepared to wait? Check out resale sites such as Vesitiare that stock designer bags. If you are lucky enough to own a Birkin, it is one purchase that will last you a lifetime.
The Row Margaux
If you’re looking for a staple everyday bag that you can quite literally fit your entire life into then look no further than The Row’s Margaux – which is tipped to be the next Hermès Birkin. The silhouette is simple, the lines are clean and the design is classic. No fancy prints or logos are needed with The Row. This is quiet luxury at its finest.
Loewe Puzzle
Whilst Chanel and Dior’s bags are instantly recognisable to the masses, Loewe bags are more for people in the know. Ultimately making them even more desirable. Regarded as a modern classic, Loewe’s Puzzle was the first bag designed by Jonathan Anderson as creative director. Its dramatic geometrical design was like nothing any other brand was offering which instantly made it a must-have for fashion folk.
Chloé Woody Tote
Gone are the days of carrying a shabby shopping tote, this practical yet premium-looking style is everything you could ever want in a bag. Constructed using a heavy-duty, durable canvas, and trimmed with recognisable logo straps, this bag is sure to last a lifetime. It’s also on the more affordable end of the designer handbag scale – coming in at under £1000.
Celine Triomphe
The Celine Triomphe bag is the ultimate accessory. Practical enough that it can be used every day but luxurious enough that it remains special. Only the best quality materials are good enough for Celine. The buttery-soft leather is available in several classic colours, including navy, tan, and stunning olive. Accented perfectly with a double C closure that finishes off the design effortlessly.
Jacquemus Bambino
Jacquemus’ Chiquito is perhaps one of the more well-known designer bags, but there is something about the Bambino that screams timeless. The bag is everywhere, including driving around Paris (thanks to AI) and its popularity is only increasing. It’s a good idea to snap up this elegant design now before the bag gains even more popularity and the prices skyrocket.
Coach Tabby
The Coach Tabby bag is quickly rising to icon-level status thanks to its timeless style and versatility. The Tabby is an updated take on the archival 1970s design and features two detachable straps to wear as a shoulder bag or crossbody. Ideal if you’re looking for something to take you from day to night.
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