25 Most Expensive Designer Bags (In 2023)
Handbags are highly desirable luxury items and can be sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars, but what are the most expensive designer bags? This article has all the answers.
The handbag is a wardrobe essential that can be taken to a whole other level – decorated with diamonds, 18-karat gold, and exotic leathers, a handbag can be sold for thousands or millions of dollars.
The Guinness world record of the most expensive bag ever sold was in 2010, when the 1001 Nights Diamond Purse was valued at $3.2 million! Since then, opulent Hermes Birkin bags are the only ones to come close to breaking this record.
This list encompasses the most expensive designer bags on the market right now and does not include the most expensive bags sold at private auctions. Additionally, it’s good to note that we have limed the number of Hermes Birkin bags, otherwise, the list would be composed of them entirely!
With these caveats in mind, let’s get into the most expensive designer bags!
25 Most expensive designer bags On The Market
1. Hermès Crocodile Himalaya Birkin – $162,500
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By far, the most expensive designer handbag that is available now is the Hermès Birkin bag, more specifically the Matte Niloticus Crocodile Himalaya Birkin handbag, which is available for $220,000.
This Himalayan Birkin is an elusive piece of fashion and handbag history that you can actually get your hands on. Birkin’s are notoriously exclusive and difficult to buy, so finding a Niloticus Crocodile skin Birkin is incredibly rare. Skilled artisans have hand sewed and dyed the crocodile skin to achieve the desired contrasting shade.
The handbag comes with not only a dust bag but also a protective raincoat, so your luxurious bag is always protected.
2. Gucci Bamboo 1947 crocodile top handle bag – $52,000
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Gucci is known for a plethora of luxury goods that have been seen on some of the most famous celebrities, with their handbags as just one example.
The Bamboo 1947 bag was one of the first handbags that Gucci added to their collection – the classic, timeless design has meant it has stood the test of time. The contemporary twist on this bag is the luxe green crocodile, which perfectly complements the curved bamboo handles and bamboo turn lock.
The finishing touches on this handbag are just perfect – leather lining, featuring two pockets, and antique gold-toned hardware.
3. Gucci Diana small crocodile tote bag – $42,000
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It is not only Hermes that makes expensive designer tote bags, Gucci also offers some of the most incredible, iconic bags – such as this Diana small crocodile tote bag.
The Diana, which was reinvented by Gucci creative director Alessandro Michele after it was seen on the arm of Princess Diana in the 1990s, is a beloved Gucci handbag. The curved bamboo handles are instantly recognizable and now feature dark green bands.
However, the most striking element is the glossy beige crocodile leather, the use of this lavish leather means the price tag for this expensive bag is $42,000.
4. Hermès Ostrich Kelly Sellier Mini Bag – $40,995
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The Hermès Kelly bag is another iconic bag from the French fashion house – this one is named after Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco.
This stunning bag is made from gorgeous black ostrich leather in minimalist black for the most luxurious of finishes. The interior is just as exquisite, lined with leather and fitted with a handy patch pocket.
The hardware, including the famous Kelly lock and keys, is gold-plated to sparkle and shine. For just $40,995, this historic bag could be yours!
5. Hermès Shiny Porosus Crocodile Birkin – $39,895
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Hermès has made their instantly recognizable Birkin bag available in many different colors and leathers, as shown by this Birkin Bag crafted from shiny crocodile leather.
The bag is made from Shiny Porosus Crocodile skin in a stunning amethyst purple shade, creating a totally eye-catching bag. The polished, palladium-plated hardware opens up the bag to reveal and goatskin leather lining – one final lavish touch.
A Birkin bag is a status symbol in itself but is even more attention-grabbing in this incredible combination of exotic leather and vibrant color.
6. Gucci Crocodile trim duffle bag with Double G – $38,000
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If you are looking for something a little larger, then this incredible Gucci Crocodile trim duffle bag is just perfect for you! The classic duffle bag silhouette has been crafted from black leather and trimmed with shiny crocodile leather – a striking pairing.
The luxurious bag is finished with gleaming gold hardware, a gold GG logo, a handy detachable shoulder strap, and a zipper pocket inside. This duffle bag is the perfect high-quality bag to pack for weekends away.
7. Hermès Swift Colormatic Kelly Retourne Bag – $37,995
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As one of the most expensive designer handbag brands, it is no surprise that there are several Hermes bags on this list – including this unique Hermès Colormatic Kelly Bag.
Made from smooth swift leather, the ivory body of the bag is then decorated with a tan and blue zipper pocket, and a red and ivory belt around the top of the bag. The sparkling silver-plated hardware is the perfect finishing touch on this magnificent luxury handbag.
This Hermès Swift Colormatic Kelly Retourne Bag is super rare, but is available from Fashionphile; you may be able to also buy it new but there is often a very long waiting list so resale sites are often the quickest way to get your hands on your favorite Hermès bag.
8. Gucci Jackie 1961 crocodile small shoulder bag – $31,000
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Another handbag named after a famous and powerful lady, the Jackie 1961 was pulled from the Gucci archives by Michele and given a new lease of life – it was named the Jackie as it was a favorite bag of Jackie Kennedy.
The bag is usually made from supple leather, but this time has been luxuriously updated with the addition of fine crocodile leather. The shape of the Jackie perfectly shows the glossy, textured finish of the crocodile leather.
As usual, the bag is finished off with the gold piston buckle – this expensive bag is available for just $31,000.
9. Gucci Dionysus crocodile small shoulder bag – $31,000
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The Gucci Dionysus is an iconic handbag that is a best seller for the Italian fashion house. The bag owes its name to the tiger head hardware that sits in the center of the bag, due to the Greek myth, in which the god, Dionysus, traveled across the river Tigris on the back of a tiger sent by Zeus.
This is an extra special edition of the Dionysus shoulder bag, crafted from glossy green crocodile leather and finished with silver hardware. We particularly love the sliding strap that can be worn on the shoulder or across the body, as well as the zipper pocket inside the bag.
10. Hermès Matte Alligator Constance Bag – $30,350
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A beautiful, elegant and minimalist Constance bag is the ideal contemporary crossbody bag from Hermès. The bag is crafted from matte pink alligator skin to add a stunning pop of color to your look.
The simple, compact design of the Constance means the bag is decorated with a simple gold-plated H-shaped lock, for that classic Hermès aesthetic.
The leather shoulder strap and the leather-lined partitioned interior are totally functional. Hermès’ luxury bags are not only iconic and beautiful but also perfectly practical.
11. Dior Niloticus Crocodile Himalaya Medium Lady Dior – $27,995
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Similar to the first Birkin bag, Dior’s famous Lady Dior bag has also been made from Niloticus Crocodile Himalayan skin. A similar dying process has been applied to create this grey and cream contrasting combination than continues from the body of the bag to the top handles and crossbody strap.
Christian Dior has made this bag even more opulent with the addition of crystal-encrusted hardware, which glitters and sparkles under the light – just stunning! The interior is lined with white leather to guarantee this bag has the perfect finish.
12. Gucci Horsebit 1955 crocodile shoulder bag – $27,000
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The classic, structured silhouette of the Gucci Horsebit 1955 bag has been given a luxurious, eye-catching update, as you can see in this Gucci Horsebit 1955 crocodile shoulder bag!
The bag is made from a combination of beige and red GG Supreme canvas and a black and yellow rhombus tweet, all tied together with a tan crocodile trim and gold hardware.
The interior is super practical, with three compartments, and a zipper pocket, so it’s easy to keep everything well organized – just perfect!
13. Hermès Lizard Constance Bag – $26,950
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Hermès is known for their incredible use of exotic materials and skins in their famous handbags and this Hermès Constance Bag is no different. Made from lizard leather, there is incredible detail in this small crossbody bag.
The leather has a natural pattern as well as an ombre brown-toned color, which is accentuated by the luxurious palladium H-shaped closure and palladium links to hold the lizard leather strap in place.
If you are looking for the most expensive, most opulent handbags, then you really need to head to Hermès – their social status in the fashion world is like no other.
14. Versace La Medusa Alligator Top-Handle Bag – $23,675
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The Versace Le Medusa is a best-seller for the famous Italian fashion house, and now there is an ultra-luxurious version crafted from alligator leather available!
The Versace La Medusa Alligator Top-Handle Bag is available in either blue or pink, each with a stunning structured silhouette, top handle, and detachable longer shoulder strap.
The front of the bag is decorated with a statement gold Medusa head a motif synonymous with the Versace brand. The interior, fitted with a slip pocket, is just the right size for your phone, keys, and wallet, plus a couple of other essentials.
15. Alaia Alligator bucket bag – $21,420
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How can we talk about gorgeous leather goods without mentioning Alaia?! Founder of the Alaia label, Azzedine Alaia was known for tight-fitting collections, complex tailoring, innovative use of knits, and detailed leatherwork.
This Alligator bucket bag perfectly shows Alaia’s deep knowledge of leather and how to create stunning bags in unusual shapes from this material. The perfect evening bag, the tan alligator leather pulls together with a drawstring top and is finished off with a wide wristlet strap.
16. Gucci Blondie crocodile belt bag – $22,000
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The Gucci Blondie collection is a new addition to the range of bags available from Gucci – creative director Alessandro Michele took inspiration from the Gucci archives to create this new style of bag that has proved popular with customers.
Above you will see a gorgeous Gucci Blondie belt bag that has been expertly crafted from glossy black crocodile leather to produce a piece that is striking and unique.
The Belt bag features a gold interlock G logo that has a vintage feel, while the bag itself is super practical, with a zipper pocket and a main compartment so you can fit all your daily must-have items.
17. Hermès Shiny Porosus Crocodile Kelly Cut Pochette – $20,655
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If you are looking for something a little smaller and more compact, then this Hermès Shiny Porosus Crocodile Kelly Cut Pochette is just right for you. This beautiful Kelly Pochette is made from shiny Porosus Crocodile leather in a stunning dark red shade that will add a subtle pop of color to any evening look.
The bag is finished with a top handle and silver palladium-plated hardware for that high-quality look. The compact interior is lined with burgundy leather and fitted with a patch pocket.
18. Louis Vuitton Jacquard Monogram Light Up Keepall – $20,500
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The Light Up Keepall was the innovative design of Virgil Abloh, as he reinvented the classic Louis Vuitton bag, the Keepall.
The bag lights up in the dark and the colors of the LV monogram can be controlled via the cell phone app – so the bag can be ever-changing to suit your style. The light-up woven body is trimmed with supple black leather, as you would expect from one of the top designer brands in the fashion industry.
The practical Keepall, which has been a favorite weekend bag for the most fashionable travelers, has received a 21st-century update with this color-changing addition.
19. Chanel Alligator Jumbo Single Flap bag – $17,995
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The Chanel flap bags are one of the most famous ranges of handbags out there, and it has had a lavish and glamourous update, in the form of rich dark blue alligator leather.
Chanel flap bags are becoming more exclusive, so it is very rare to see this incredible Chanel Alligator Jumbo Single Flap Bag. The gleaming gold CC hardware turn lock opens up to a lambskin leather interior that features zipper and patch pockets – beautiful and practical! Of course, the handle is the quintessentially Chanel leather woven gold chain.
20. Hermès Matte Niloticus Crocodile Lindy Bag – $17,890
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The Hermès Lindy bag has been an important part of the French fashion house for decades but it still remains one of the more under-the-radar Hermès bags. However, the striking silhouette and practical nature of this bag mean it really deserves a place in your collection.
This Hermès Matte Niloticus Crocodile Lindy Bag is an extra special example, crafted from matte crocodile leather and finished with palladium-plated hardware. The zip-top means easy access to the roomy interior, lined with leather and featuring side pockets.
21. Hermès Tadelakt Kelly Cadena Bag – $14,995
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We love the sharp and sophisticated look of this rare Hermès Tadelakt Kelly Cadena Bag! This is a Hermès bag that you may not have seen before, with the luxe black leather exterior, structured rectangular silhouette, and a statement H logo channel quilted on the front of the bag.
This unique bag has a delicate rolled leather top handle and a silver zipper along the side of the bag, opening up to the compact interior – just the right size for your phone, wallet, and keys!
22. Chanel Alligator Ombre Jumbo Double Flap Bag – $14,250
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This striking Chanel Alligator Ombre Jumbo Double Flap Bag combines the luxurious nature of Chanel and exotic leather with practicality to create an eye-catching handbag!
This Chanel bag has the classic silhouette of the Jumbo Double Flap, but has been made from alligator leather in a rare ombre blue tone – the leather begins as a pale blue at the top before graduating to dark blue at the base of the bag and at the edge of the front flap.
The double flap bag is finished with a leather-threaded chain, CC hardware, and a roomy interior fitted with patch and zipper pockets.
23. Chanel Caviar Quilted Medium Double Flap Bag – $13,340
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The Chanel double flap bags have been playing around with many times to create subtly different designs for each season – but the classic options are always a must-have in your wardrobe.
This Chanel Caviar Quilted Medium Double Flap Bag is a timeless shoulder bag that is completely irresistible – made from luxe dark beige caviar leather, quilted in a diamond pattern, and finished with gleaming gold hardware.
The sliding strap can be worn on the shoulder or across the body, while the interior features patch pockets to help you stay organized.
24. Delvaux Iridescent Alligator Brillant Satchel – $12,875
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This Delvaux Iridescent Alligator Brillant Satchel is a great statement bag to add to your collection! Delvaux, founded in 1829, is one of the oldest luxury leather goods brands in the world and they are well-known all over the world for their high-quality, exquisite handbags – such as this elegant satchel.
The alligator leather of this bag is made even more attention-grabbing with the iridescent blue finish that highlights the stunning texture of the leather. This satchel is then embellished with iridescent blue-green hardware, and fitted with both a top handle and a detachable shoulder strap for multiple styling options.
25. Louis Vuitton Monogram Eclipse Gran Sac – $12,500
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This expensive Louis Vuitton Gran Sac bag beautifully combines LV monogrammed coated canvas, with ostrich and crocodile leather to create a striking, sleek bag!
The black and grey tones give this bag a minimalist aesthetic, and then it is on closer inspection that you notice the incredible leathers paired with the iconic LV monogram.
Not only does this bag look amazing, but it is really practical too, with a spacious leather lined interior and the matching zipper pouch that comes with the tote to help you stay organized!
We hope you loved this article on the most expensive designer bags! For more luxury fashion content, check out the links below.
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