10 of The Best Designer Bags to Invest In

Gladrags and it-bags. Some of the best designer bags ever created have been loved for almost 100 years. Each has broken free from passing trends and remains desired by fashionistas year after year. Not only do they complement endless outfits, but they are dependable investment pieces.

If you’re looking to add a little luxurious flair to your wardrobe — but you’re not sure which handbag will be truly timeless and highly valuable for decades to come — discover your next handbag here within our list of the best designer bags ever created.

1. Chanel: The 2.55 Flap Bags

A true covetable classic. The Chanel 2.55 was created in February 1955 by Coco Chanel herself. The chained shoulder strap allowed women to carry the handbag on their shoulders instead of by hand. This poignant design decision forever changed the course of handbag fashion.

2. Fendi: The Baguette

Arguably one of the most iconic fashion items of the 90s that is still highly covetable today (double denim… not so much). The Fendi Baguette bag rose to its iconic status after being carried on the arm of Sarah Jessica Parker in Sex and the City.

3. Prada: The Nylon Bag

Prada popularised unconventional fabric choices. As leather dominated the designer bag scene, Prada created a new path with their line of Nylon bags. The Prada Nylon Re-Edition is the most iconic member of the Prada Nylon collection and definitely a significant piece of fashion history.

4. Prada: The Saffiano Galleria Tote

The Galleria Tote encapsulates all the classic characteristics of a perfect handbag. It manages to look both soft and structured, which is thanks in part to the unique Saffiano leather that was created by Mario Prada, the founder of the Prada fashion house. It was created in 2007, but its classic look ensured it a permanent space on the list of the world’s best designer bags.

5. Dior: The Saddle Bag

Another 90s it-bag, the Dior Saddle Bag has remained a timeless classic. With its unique saddle shape and iconic ‘D’ hardware, it has officially entered fashion history as a highly covetable bag that can be found in unique prints and colours.

6. Dior: The Lady Dior

The Lady Dior is the perfect petite tote bag. Originally known as the ‘Chouchou’, it was gifted to Diana, Princess of Wales, by Bernadette Chirac, the wife of former French President, Jacques Chirac. It was soon officially renamed as “the Lady Dior Tote” to honour the role that Lady Diana played in making the bag so iconic.

7. Louis Vuitton: The Speedy

One of the best designer bags to invest in today, the Speedy from Louis Vuitton is one of their most popular handbags. Closely followed by the Alma, the Louis Vuitton Speedy was the first handbag created by this French powerhouse. Almost a century later, the Louis Vuitton speedy is as covetable as ever.

8. Gucci: The Bamboo Bag

Gucci began using bamboo to create elements of their handbags during a material shortage in the second world war. This temporary alternative soon turned into a recognisable and well-loved brand characteristic. The curved bamboo handle pairs perfectly with the structured silhouette of the bag.

9. Hermès: The Kelly

The Hermès Kelly stepped into the limelight in the hands of a Princess. That’s the late Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco, a famous film star who married into royalty. Like the Gucci Diana and Lady Dior bag, its association with royalty ensured the Kelly Bag (originally known as the Sac à dépêches) was permanently etched into fashion history.

10. Hermès: The Birkin

One of the most elusive handbags on this list. The Hermès Birkin has become so desirable that Hermès actively makes acquiring the Birkin a challenge. It tops our list as one of the best designer bags to invest in — and whilst the elusive nature and high price tag may make you reconsider if it’s worth it… a pre-loved Hermès Birkin is the easiest way to add this covetable bag into your collection.

Featured Image: Hermès Ostrich Birkin Bag | Photo by Wen-Cheng Liu on Wikimedia Commons