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A good designer handbag does more than just make a stylish fashion statement designed to withstand the test of time. It’s also a functional and well-constructed carryall that’s designed to get your daily must-haves from point A to point B. However, as with anything “designer,” the price tag can be high—from the hundreds to the several thousands—and sometimes, you don’t know whether you are paying for quality or just a name. We spoke to several fashion experts to help us create a list of top designer handbags that are worth the investment (and are functional as well). No matter whether you’re looking for a sizable day tote or a petite clutch to carry at night, our curated selection can help you find the best fit for whatever your day brings. 

How to choose the best designer handbags

Purpose

Not all designer bags are created equal. As evident based on the above, some are best for evening gatherings, others are ideal for the office or commuting, and additional options are useful for weekend activities or travel. Consider your day-to-day needs and lifestyle before purchasing a bag to ensure you will reach for it frequently and not simply leave it hanging in your closet. 

Budget 

Everyone’s budget varies. It is important to take into account your personal budgetary concerns when shopping for a designer bag. In doing so, you should also determine whether you wish to invest in one bag that you will reach for on a near-daily basis or if you would like to build a larger collection of bags that come in at lower price points. 

Ask yourself: Are you looking to invest in a piece that will appreciate in value over time, or do you prefer to purchase bags without worrying about eventual resale possibilities? These are all important decisions to weigh as you prepare to spend hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on a designer bag. 

Personal Style

It is, of course, imperative to take your personal style preferences into account when shopping for a designer handbag. Are you drawn to logos, or does their presence bother you? Are you looking for a bag that will be instantly recognizable, or would you prefer something a bit more off the beaten path? Do you mainly dress in neutrals, or are you looking for a brightly colored bag to complement your bold outfits? These factors and more should all be considered as you embark on the shopping process. 

Our top designer handbags picks 

Best affordable designer handbag: Kate Spade Bleecker Large Tote

Coming in at under $300, the Kate Spade Bleecker Large Tote is an affordable yet stylish pick. “It's a classic leather tote bag, which can carry a lot,” says fashion and lifestyle blogger Titilola Sogunro of Titi’s Passion. “I like that you can easily add an organizer insert to increase its functionality.” 

It is available in six colors that range from black to rose; the tote bag is large enough to house a 13-inch laptop and also includes a small interior zip pouch, making it one of the best work bags for women. 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Saffiano leather and faille lining
• Care: Wipe gently dry with a soft cloth
• Dimensions: 11.75 inches (height) x 13.75 inches (width) x 5.25 inches (depth) 
• Price at time of publish: $248 

What we like: 

• Interior zip pocket included 
• Simple, classic design 

What we don’t like: 

• Cannot fit laptops larger than 13 inches 

Best affordable designer handbag

Kate Spade Bleecker Large Tote

Best black designer handbag: Chanel Classic Flap Bag

Chanel’s Classic Flap Bag has somewhat of a cult following among fashionistas, many of whom opt for the traditional black color with an accompanying gold chain link strap. “This is a timeless style that will never go out of style,” says fashion and travel blogger Kat Jamieson. Thirteen years ago, Jamieson purchased her own Classic Flap Bag. “Not only has it significantly increased in value, but it still looks brand new,” she comments. “If you love it, buy it now!” 

She recommends that those eyeing this purse opt for a vintage make, given that Chanel recently switched to gold-plated hardware in lieu of solid gold. 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather: Since this is an authorized resale site, the exact price will depend on the model/condition available.  
• Care: Wipe clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth 
• Dimensions: 6 inches (height) x 10 inches (width) x 2.75 inches (depth)
• Price at time of publish: $3,000 and up—since this is an authorized resale site, the exact price will depend on the model/condition available

What we like: 

• Recognizable and classic 
• Investment piece that will appreciate with time 

What we don’t like: 

• Steep price tag 

Best black designer handbag

Chanel Classic Flap Bag

Best designer handbag for moms: Goyard Saint Louis

Incredibly spacious and easily packable, the Goyard Saint Louis is a fantastic designer handbag option for moms, says stylist and fashion consultant Deborah Watson. “It comes in lots of beautiful colors, it’s seasonless, and you can clean it easily with just a simple baby wipe!” 

We love that the St. Louis style is available in three sizes: The smaller PM,  larger GM, and the ultra sizable XXL. 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Coated canvas with leather straps and trim
• Care: Wipe clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth 
• Dimensions: 13.3 inches (height) x 15.75 inches (width) x 7.87 inches (depth) 
• Price at time of publish: $1,050 and up—since this is an authorized resale site, the exact price will depend on the model/condition available

What we like: 

• Wide variety of colors to choose from 
• Foldable for travel 

What we don’t like: 

• No interior pockets 
• White interior is stain-prone 

Best designer handbag for moms

Goyard Saint Louis

Best designer shoulder bag: Brahmin Esme

Priced at $225, Brahmin’s Esme bags come in a wide range of vibrant colorways and are a go-to statement piece, says lifestyle influencer Greivy. “I have been wearing and collecting these bags for a few years now and I’m obsessed with the quality and colors that are released season after season,” she adds. 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Genuine croc-embossed leather
• Care: Evenly apply leather conditioner 
• Dimensions: 8 inches (height) x 11.75 inches (width) x 3.25 inches (depth) 
• Price on publish: $245

What we like: 

• Fun, playful pattern
• Accessible price point 

What we don’t like: 

• Structured design is less packable 

Best designer shoulder bag

Brahmin Esme

Best casual designer handbag: Clare V Grande Fanny

Jess Keys, life and style blogger at JessKeys.com, considers Clare V’s Grande Fanny bag to be one of her most worn items. “I love that the Grande Fanny comes in so many color options and that you can mix and match with dozens of strap options,” she shares. Better yet, Keys appreciates that the fanny pack is larger than most but lays flat against the body. “Day or night, it's stylish, on-trend, versatile, and comfortable at the same time.” 

Blogger Katie Sturino, founder of Megababe, author of Body Talk, and body acceptance advocate, is also a proponent of the Grande Fanny bag. “There aren’t a lot of fanny pack straps that fit my body, so I’m glad I found this one,” she says. “The cream coloring is such a staple: It’s neutral and goes with everything, allowing me to mix and match with my straps based on the outfit and occasion.” 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Have professionally cleaned
• Dimensions: 8 inches (height) x 12 ¾ inches (width) 
• Price at time of publish: $325

What we like: 

• Strap is adjustable, detachable, and interchangeable 
• Array of eye-catching pattern choices 

What we don’t like: 

• Larger size may overwhelm smaller frames  

Best casual designer handbag

Clare V Grande Fanny

Best minimalist designer handbag: Cuyana System Tote

Those who wish to carry a logo-free designer handbag will appreciate Cuyana’s System Tote, which is my personal favorite option to carry while running errands, attending work meetings, or exploring the city. (It also made our list of the best travel totes for women.) Stylish and sleek, the bag is elevated yet comes at a manageable, under $350 price point. Those looking to customize the bag further can choose to add a strap, organization pouch, and other accessories, available directly from Cuyana. 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Wipe clean with damp cloth
• Dimensions: 11 inches (height) x 19 inches (width) x 5.5 inches (depth) 
• Price at time of publish: Starts at $328 

What we like: 

• Compatible with many Cuyana accessories 
• Minimalist looking 

What we don’t like: 

• Heavier feel, even when not fully packed 

Best minimalist designer handbag

Cuyana System Tote

Best designer crossbody bag: Loewe Small Hammock

Fashion stylish Hallie Abrams of The Wardrobe Consultant notes that Loewe’s Small Hammock bag, which is available in seven chic, neutral colors, “has a unique shape and can be both compact and large depending on the wearer’s desire.” It can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag or simply carried by its handles. The brand has made major waves in recent years and is part of what Abrams refers to as the “‘It Girl’ zeitgeist.” 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Dab with soft cloth and let dry at room temperature
• Dimensions: 5.3” width x 9.8” height x 11.8” depth
• Price on publish: $3,100 

What we like: 

• Can be worn in multiple ways 
• Timeless neutral options 

What we don’t like: 

• Steep price point without instant recognizability 

Best designer crossbody bag

Loewe Small Hammock

Best designer tote bag: Dior Book Tote

The Dior Book Tote isn’t your average tote bag—known for its logo design and sturdy structure, it’s a favorite of lifestyle influencer Katelyn Sailor. “I've made the mistake before of purchasing smaller, trendy designer bags that I stop using after a year,” Sailor reflects. “I’ve had my book tote for four years now and it continues to be my most used bag whenever I need something to easily throw things in for travel or errands.” 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Have professionally cleaned
• Dimensions: 14 inches (width) x 11 inches (height) x 6.5 inches (depth) 
• Price on publish: Starts at $3,450 for medium size 

What we like: 

• Vibrant patterns 
• Personalization options  

What we don’t like: 

• Lacks interior pockets
• Lacks zip top 

Best designer tote bag

Dior Book Tote

Best designer everyday bag: Saint Laurent Baby Sac De Jour

Alison Bruhn loved her first Saint Laurent Baby Sac De Jour so much that she ended up purchasing another colorway of the bag a few years later. “It is deceptive in its size,” says the national style and image consultant behind The Style That Binds Us. “Even though it is relatively small, I can fit everything I need inside of it—including a small umbrella!” 

Bruhn also appreciates that this bag is lightweight, can stand up on its own due to its flat bottom with small feet, and its versatility: It features handles as well as a crossbody strap. “During the day I can be hands-free, and in the evening I carry the bag using the top handles for an elegant, dressier look,” says Bruhn, who also loves that this bag appeals to her minimalist, understated aesthetic. 

Specifications: 

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Wipe clean with a damp, soft cloth, cleaning in the same direction as the grain of the leather
• Dimensions: 10.2 inches (width) x 7.8 inches (height) x 5.1 inches (depth) 
• Price on publish: $2,950  

What we like: 

• Can be worn multiple ways 
• Sleek design

What we don’t like: 

• Cannot accommodate laptop 

Best designer everyday bag

Saint Laurent Baby Sac De Jour

Best designer work bag: Senreve Maestra

Natalie Simkins, stylist and founder of Style by Simkins, uses the Senreve Maestra bag for work and appreciates both its structure and versatility—the bag can be worn as either a backpack or on the shoulder. “It has a laptop compartment and multiple pockets to help keep everything super organized,” Simkins says. “Most importantly, it's gorgeous and timeless.” Its versatility makes it one of the best travel backpacks for women who want a bag that can truly go from work conferences to brunch to cocktails. 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Wipe dry with a damp cloth. Do not use soap.
• Dimensions: 12.25 inches (width) x 10.25 inches (height) x 8.75 inches (depth)
• Price on publish: $945

What we like: 

• Can be worn multiple ways 
• Hidden zipper closure 

What we don’t like: 

• Must unbuckle to open 

Best designer work bag

Maestra Bag | Pebbled

Best designer clutch: Chanel Black Quilted Caviar Classic Wallet on Chain

Chanel’s Black Quilted Caviar Classic Wallet on Chain can be worn as both a crossbody and a clutch and is “the best designer starter bag, in my opinion,” says Amy Littleson McNitt, founder of the fashion and lifestyle blog, Amy Littleson. 

The bag features the luxury brand’s signature “CC” logo and is designed to serve as a wallet, with interior pouches for credit cards, while still being able to house other essentials, including a phone and keychain. “It’s a forever classic and, in most cases, is on the lower end of the dollar scale when it comes to Chanel’s current prices,” McNitt adds. “Black is also an all-year-round worn color in NYC, so I’ll have no problem getting plenty of use out of it!” 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Wipe clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth  
• Dimensions: 7.75 inches (width) x 5 inches (height) x 1.5 inches (depth) 
• Price on publish: $3,700 and up—since this is an authorized resale site, the exact price will depend on the model/condition available

What we like: 

• Compact and ideal for travel 
• Versatile color and shape 

What we don’t like: 

• Minimal storage capacity 

Best designer clutch

Chanel Black Quilted Caviar Classic Wallet on Chain

Best designer mini bag: Grace Mini Bag by A.P.C. 

One of Camille Carter’s most used bags is the Grace Mini Bag from the French label A.P.C. “It’s the perfect mix between casual and polished; you can wear it during the day with jeans and a t-shirt just as easily as you can at night to a nice dinner or event,” says the lifestyle blogger behind Charmed by Camille. 

Carter appreciates the bag’s leather construction as well as its timeless look. “Right now, the quiet luxury vibe is in, but because this bag has a classic shape, clean gold closure, and tiny logo, it’s something that will last beyond just this trend,” she states. 

Specifications:

• Material/s: Leather
• Care: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth.
• Dimensions: 6.88 inches (width) x 5.51 inches (height) x 1.57 inches (depth) 
• Price at time of publish: $840

What we like: 

• Compact 
• Petite-friendly 

What we don’t like: 

• Minimal storage capacity 

How we selected the best designer handbags 

To select the best designer handbags, we spoke with a range of experts who work within the world of fashion, including bloggers, content creators, personal stylists, and more. These individuals openly shared their favorite designer handbags and provided detailed explanations of these bags’ benefits.

The Top Designer Handbag Brands Every Woman Needs to Know

When it comes to style and fashion, we are always looking for new ways to look our best. Although it's true that these designer handbags are expensive, they are highly sought after by those of us who want to own only the best.

Designer handbags have been a staple fashion accessory for ages. Not only are handbags functional by providing a way to carry our everyday essentials, but they are also symbols that reflect one's individuality and style. Handbags are a great way to add a designer touch to any outfit.

Many of the famous bag designers have been around for generations and have played a pivotal role in elevating handbags to the status they enjoy today.

Heritage brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès have made a major impact on the fashion industry, and their timeless and classic bags are wanted by fashion enthusiasts and celebrities around the world.

Every designer has their own vision of what it takes to create the perfect bag, and every luxury handbag has a remarkable story. From the inspiration behind the specific design, to the brand's history, to the materials used to create it, each bag has its own journey that makes it unique and coveted.

The Importance of Handbags in Fashion

Bags have become one of the most important fashion accessories in recent years. An outfit complemented with a fashionable bag is taken to a whole new level.

Women cannot resist purchasing luxurious and designer handbags. When it comes to style and fashion, we are always looking for new ways to look our best. Although it's true that these designer handbags are expensive, they are highly sought after by those of us who want to own only the best.

It's no accident that major department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue have dedicated an entire floor to handbags. Top-tier retailers, designers, and manufacturers are all capitalizing on our love of designer bags as they are one of the most lucrative status symbols of the 21st century.

How Handbags Have Evolved Over Time

Despite their popularity among women, handbags began as a man's accessory. The term was first used to describe a man's briefcase in 1900, and hieroglyphics from Ancient Egypt show men wearing pouches around their waists.

The oldest handbag to be discovered is a 700-year-old clutch that was found in Mosul, a city in northern Iraq. The lovely bag is embellished with gold and silver court scenes.

Handbags have always served as symbols of power, status, and beauty, in addition to their practical functions. Embroidered depictions of love were commonly added to medieval purses.

In the 19th century, bags were revolutionized by the introduction of public train travel. As more and more people began to travel by train, the term "handbag" was coined to describe the luggage that travelers carried onboard. Some of today's most well-known designers, such as the iconic Louis Vuitton, began as 19th-century luggage makers.

Centuries later, all of our daily essentials are stored in handbags, from wallets and keys to phones and makeup. Women never leave home without their favorite designer bag.

The Most Popular Designer Handbag Brands

Designer bags are a must-have accessory for any fashion enthusiast, and there are numerous designers and brands who have made their mark on the industry. The world of handbag design is broad and diverse, varying from the iconic bag designs of Louis Vuitton and Chanel to the modern styles of Michael Kors and Kate Spade.

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton is one of the world's most well-known and influential handbag designers. Louis Vuitton founded the company in Paris in 1854, offering trunks and luggage made for wealthy travelers. The Keepall, the company's first handbag, was designed in 1930. The luxury label is also known for paving the way for the ever-popular logomania trend, which is still relevant today.

Their signature monogram design, first introduced in 1896, is a key feature of Louis Vuitton handbags. Its distinctive pattern, which features interlocking LV initials and quatrefoils, became synonymous with the brand and is instantly recognizable to people all over the world.

Louis Vuitton Bags

With a wide variety of luxury bags to choose from, two styles have stood the test of time: the Neverfull and Speedy.

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull shoulder bag is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large, as well as three patterns: monogram, Damier Azure, and Damier Ebene. Its price varies depending on the size, ranging from $1200 to $1350.

The Louis Vuitton Speedy bag is one of the most popular handbags of all time. Almost every celebrity has at least one Speedy bag. It also comes in different sizes, from 25 to 40 centimeters.

The Speedy, like all Louis Vuitton bags, comes in three standard patterns. And, the Speedy Bandouliere version features a crossbody strap that is detachable.

Chanel

Chanel, another iconic brand in the world of designer handbags, was founded at the beginning of the 20th century in Paris. Coco Chanel established the brand in 1909, which quickly became known for its elegant and sophisticated designs.

Chanel Bags

Chanel's classic shoulder bag is one of the world's most recognizable handbags. This quilted leather bag is available in a variety of colors and sizes and was designed by Coco herself in 1955. The long chain strap, however, is what makes this bag truly unique. It is clear from the name that this bag is both classic and iconic, and it's mostly worn in the evening for special occasions.

The Chanel boy bag is the second most popular Chanel bag. It has a box-like shape and comes in a variety of colors. This designer bag is available in four sizes: small, medium, new medium, and large.

Hermes

Hermes is a renowned French brand that was founded in 1837 in Paris by designer Thierry Hermès. Hermes is well-known in the world of luxury for its rich heritage, exquisite craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

The Birkin Bag

Birkin bags are the epitome of luxury and status. The Birkin bag is universally perceived as the most exclusive accessory in the world, with some even claiming that it is a better investment than gold. It was named after the British singer and actress Jane Birkin.

This bag is entirely handcrafted and made of fine materials such as crocodile, cow, lizard, and ostrich. They use premium animal skins including some of the finest calf leathers in the world. The Birkin bag comes in a variety of colors from beige and black to hot pink and bright orange and is popular among celebrities.

Birkins are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 25 cm to 55 cm. The bag also has a lock and key feature on the front. The keys are kept in a leather lanyard known as a clochette, which is attached to the bag.

Gucci

The Italian luxury fashion house, Gucci was founded by Guccio Gucci in 1921 and quickly became one of the most recognizable and influential brands worldwide.

One of its most sleek shoulder bags is the Gucci Horsebit bag, which was first released in 1955. The horsebit emblem, which has now become synonymous with Gucci, is modeled after equestrian details. The handbag was re-released in 2019 under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele.

Dior

Dior is a high-fashion luxury French fashion house, which was founded by Christian Dior in 1946. The brand quickly became an international success due to its sophisticated designs.

The renowned Lady Dior bag was Princess Diana's favorite model, which she first wore in 1995. Almost 25 years later, the handbag remains one of the most coveted bags today. The bag's timelessness stems from its simplicity and minimal shape and style. The playful details of the metallic charms that fall from the strap were inspired by Christian Dior himself and add an unexpected twist to the bag.

Prada

Their leather luxury handbags have been a staple since the brand's founding in 1913, so it goes without saying that celebrities, influencers, and fashionistas all adore Prada handbags.

The Prada Cleo bag is one of the more popular designs available from the brand. This shoulder bag has claimed "it bag" status since its debut in Prada's SS21 collection, thanks to its timeless, minimalistic design. It is available in a variety of color schemes and textures, ensuring that you can find one that suits your personality perfectly.

Michael Kors

Designer Michael Kors established the American fashion house Michael Kors in 1981 in New York.

One of the brand's most well-known bags is the Selma satchel. The bag's blend of simplicity, functionality, and elegance makes it high in demand. It is available in several colors and is made of sturdy saffiano leather.

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta is a luxury Italian brand founded in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy. The brand became synonymous with luxury and elegance due to its minimalist aesthetic and high-quality materials.

One of the most popular Bottega Veneta handbags is the Cassette bag. Despite being relatively new, the Cassette Bag is quickly becoming a fashion favorite. With its distinctively soft geometric shape, the Cassette has become the new “it bag” among the fashion crowd.

The Cassette's chic design is based on the Intrecciato weave pattern that the Italian fashion house is well known for. This bag has a balanced mix of practicality and minimal elegance that will undoubtedly make it a staple piece in many women’s wardrobes for years to come.

Celine

Céline Vipiana founded the French luxury brand Celine in 1945. Celine handbags have become extremely popular in recent years, particularly Celine luggage bags. In addition to its unique shape, the luggage bag comes in five different sizes: medium, shoulder, mini, micro, and nano. Because of its beautiful colors and widespread popularity, these bags are priced at a premium.

Yves Saint Laurent

From the brand's beginnings in the 1960s, Yves Saint Laurent has developed a loyal following and is best known for its revolutionary, liberal, and androgynous pieces.

The LouLou purse is among Saint Laurent's most popular handbags. This soft but structured bag is a classic choice that will never go out of style. The LouLou bag has enough space to fit all of your necessities without being too large.

Fendi

The legendary Italian fashion business Fendi had humble beginnings but has grown into a favorite brand for understandable reasons. The Fendi Baguette is the brand's most well-known handbag. The Baguette, created by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, has a compact size and short strap that makes it comfortable for wearing over the arm.

FAQs

What is the most popular luxury bag brand?

It's hard to identify the most popular luxury designer handbag brand because it depends on so many different factors and individual preferences. Nevertheless, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès are some of the most well-known luxury handbag brands.

What are good bag brands?

There are many well-known designer handbag brands that offer high-end products with excellent craftsmanship. Some of the most well-known and respectable brands include Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Hermès, Celine, and Bottega Veneta. The best brand ultimately comes down to personal taste, requirements, and financial resources.

As you begin to curate a collection of designer bags to complement your wardrobe, don’t forget to store them with care. When not in use, we recommend storing handbags in dust bags that will protect your most valuable items from dust, light, moths, mold, and condensation. Ideally, dust bags should be made of natural textiles that are environmentally friendly and allow your favorite pieces to breathe while keeping them protected from damage.