25 Top Luxury Handbag Brands That Are Worth The Money
Thinking about making your first designer bag investment? Here are the top luxury handbag brands that you should know about!
It has been said that a modern woman’s rite of passage is to have her first big girl bag purchase – we’re talking about timeless, expensive bags from luxury brands. After all, they are an investment piece.
The best thing about iconic bags from famous brands is that they can withstand the test of time since they are made from the highest possible quality materials. With the right amount of care, you can even resell them for the same price you bought them for, or even higher if it’s an exclusive bag.
A luxury handbag is the perfect accessory to top off any outfit. They can be used for work, school, or an evening out on the town. The top brands in the fashion industry come from a variety of countries and have their own unique styles that they are known for – and they are household names for a reason.
In this article, we will explore the best designer handbag brands so you can choose your next luxury bag!
25 Top Luxury Handbag Brands
1. Hermès
Hermès is the king of leather goods and definitely the most exclusive brand on this list. This top French luxury fashion and handbag brand was founded by Thierry Hermès in 1837 and is currently most famous for its leather goods and colorful scarves.
The brand’s most famous pieces include of course the highly coveted Birkin and Kelly bags, which are very hard to purchase unless you have a previous purchase history with the brand. Even then, you most likely can’t choose the color or size of your bag: you take what’s offered to you.
For this reason, if you do manage to bag either the Kelly or the Birkin directly from the store, you can immediately sell the bag for a profit. For example, in 2021, both the Kelly and the Birkin retail for around $10k depending on the size, color and leather of the bags, but the resale value is often around $20k!
While these bags are extremely expensive, it’s often said that they are better investments than the stock market. We don’t recommend getting these as your first handbags, but they’re definitely worth considering if you are a friend of luxury fashion and already own a couple of designer handbags.
You may want to try your luck in the store, but if you want to skip the games, go directly to a secondhand marketplace like Fashionphile instead.
2. Chanel
Chanel is another iconic luxury brand that has now become a household name.
Founded by Coco Chanel in the early 1900s, this brand’s haute couture products are known for their elegance and simplicity, and while some brands are known for a specific product, Chanel is equally known for its bags, clothes, perfumes, shoes, and accessories.
Chanel handbags are incredibly chic and are totally worth every penny. In our opinion, the double C logo is the most beautiful logo among luxury fashion brands, but we may be biased.
If you’re looking for a luxury purse that will appreciate in value over time and that isn’t quite as expensive as Hermès, there’s no better bag than the Chanel classic flap.
The price of this bag (and other classic Chanel bags) has increased twice a year now, so it’s better to get on the Chanel train sooner rather than later. During the health crisis, the bag’s price increased a whopping 40% in less than 2 years!
Other notable classic or trendy bags from this brand include the Chanel 19, the Trendy CC, the Reissue, and the Coco Handle.
3. Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton is arguably one of the most famous top luxury handbag brands out there, so much that it is also the brand that has the most knockoffs and fakes in the market today.
The brand has been around since 1854 – enough to perfect the formula for the best handbags. LV handbags are extremely durable, and relatively well priced too, especially when compared to Chanel and Hermès.
Still, Louis Vuitton is one of the luxury handbag brands that does extremely well on the secondhand market, and if you hold the bags for long enough, you can even sell them for a profit.
Louis Vuitton’s bestselling handbags are often made with their monogram print, but they also produce many bags in more understated colors without the famous prints.
Currently, their bestsellers include classics like the Louis Vuitton Neverfull, the Louis Vuitton Speedy, but newer bags like the Pochette Metis and the Palm Spring Mini also fly off the shelves.
4. Christian Dior
The house of Dior was founded in 1946 by French designer and businessman Christian Dior, and they’re well known for their handbags, perfumes, clothes, and accessories.
The now-iconic Lady Dior bag was a favorite of Princess Diana, so much so that Dior baptized the bag in her honor. The bag is now one of the most famous bags in fashion history, and one of Dior’s bestsellers.
In addition to this, Dior has produced quite a few hit bags in the last few years. First of all, we have to mention the beautiful Christian Dior Book Tote that is perfect for travel and thus often seen at airports on top of other luggage bags.
Then, of course, we have the iconic Saddle bag which made its way back to the shelves of Dior in 2014 after Beyonce wore her vintage Saddle bag from the 90s.
The bag was discontinued in 2000, but Beyonce had the power to bring it back and make it even more popular than before. We wonder if any other celebrity could pull off something like that – what do you think?
5. Saint Laurent
Saint Laurent, previously known as Yves Saint Laurent or just YSL, has been around since the ’60s and it’s most known for its effortlessly modern, elegant bags that have a bit of edge.
Their classic bags with the beautiful YSL logo are cult favorites, and luckily the bags are among the most affordable ones inside the world of luxury brands. You can typically find a beautiful YSL bag for under $2,000 which makes them perfect for new luxury enthusiasts.
Some of YSL’s bestselling handbags include the Loulou bag, the trendy Rive Gauche tote bag and the sophisticated Sac De Jour bag that’s fit for any office.
6. Gucci
Gucci is an Italian fashion house with a rich heritage. It was founded by Guccio Gucci in 1921, and he got his inspiration from combining British aesthetics with Italian craftsmanship.
Gucci bags these days are head turners – they are simply gorgeous and they come in a variety of styles that can cater to any aesthetic you’re going for. Like YSL, Gucci bags are actually relatively affordable, and you can find many bestselling bags retailing for under $2,000.
By far, the most popular Gucci bag of the moment is the Marmont bag, which comes in multiple sizes and color variations. In addition to this, Gucci has a couple of other “it-bags”, like the Dionysus, and the Jackie bags.
7. Goyard
Goyard is one of the oldest luxury French brands, dating back to the 1850s when the brand first made trunks before adding other leather goods and bags to the collection.
This bag maker is one of the more mysterious brands – Goyard bags are only available new from a Goyard store and their high-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship are kept a secret to keep up the extraordinary reputation of this luxury handbag brand.
Almost all Goyard bags are decorated with the incredible Goyardine print, as you can see on the Saint Louis tote and Saigon top handle bag. Goyard bags are popular among celebrities and royalty alike so why not add one of these stunning handbags to your own wardrobe?
8. Fendi
Fendi is an Italian fashion house that started as a family-run leather store in 1925. When Karl Lagerfeld arrived in 1965 to lead with his creative mind, that’s when Fendi became a global luxury powerhouse thanks to his unique designs.
Fendi bags are timeless and trendy, and it comes with an elegant heritage. Their most famous bag – the Baguette bag is a cultural icon. It was designed by Silvia Fendi in the late 1990s, and it rose to prominence when it appeared on Sex and the City.
In addition to the Baguette bag, Fendi’s bestselling bags include the Peekaboo bag and the Sunshine tote, which is perfect for vacations by the beach.
9. Prada
Prada is another luxury brand that has been around for a long time: it was founded by brothers Martino and Mario Prada in the early 1900s.
While it’s relatively affordable, it’s one of the hottest designer brands of the moment, thanks to the popularity of its Re-Edition bag. In addition to this, their Galleria tote is one of the most recognizable luxury office bags there are.
Prada bags are famous for their wearability, functionality, and durability. Prada makes use of both Saffiano leather (which Mario Prada actually invented and patented in 1913) as well as nylon. Most of their bags are simple and sleek – perfect for the modern woman.
10. Chloé
Chloé is a French luxury fashion house founded in 1952 by Gaby Again, and this brand has a knack for creating cult handbags that are a favorite by women around the world.
Chloé bags are elegant and hyper-feminine, with gorgeous colors for each bag style. Their bags have unique designs that are perfect for any season there is. In addition to this, many Chloé bags are relatively affordable, hovering around the $1,000 mark.
We personally find the Chloé Woody Tote super cute and perfect if you’re going on a tropical holiday! This is the perfect bag to bring to the beach or by the poolside.
11. Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta has been around for quite some time: it was originally founded in 1966 in Italy, and its name literally translates to “Venetian store”. It’s always been a brand that’s well known for its craftsmanship, quality leather goods and understated appearance, so much so that it’s refrained from using any noticeable logos on its bags.
While the brand has always been on the radar for people who want the best quality bags, it failed to become a coveted brand among regular consumers until Daniel Lee assumed the role of creative director in 2018. The rest is history: Lee gave us iconic bags such as the Pouch bag, the Cassette bag and the Jodie.
While these bags are expensive, you can rest assured that they’re built to last and made with only the highest quality materials and craftsmanship.
12. Celine
Celine is a French RTW and leather luxury goods brand that was founded in 1945 by Céline Vipiana. This luxury brand is known for its stylish accessories like bags, sunglasses, belts, as well as clothes.
Celine bags have breathtaking, stunning details that can elevate your outfit instantly.
13. Loewe
Loewe is a brand that’s handbags are perfect for people who prefer a minimalist look and don’t fuss about logos. Founded in 1846, this Madrid-based brand gained popularity with the Spanish royalty and has always been famous for its craftsmanship and leather goods.
Some of Loewe’s most popular bags include the Puzzle bag, the Raffia tote, the Flamenco bag and the Gate bag.
While many top designers now have their own versions of the straw bag, it was in fact Loewe (and Jacquemus) that first made this trend popular back in 2020. So, if you’re considering getting one, you might as well go with the OG!
14. Balenciaga
While Balenciaga is perhaps more coveted for its streetwear looks and shoes, its handbags also deserve a spot on this list.
This Spanish luxury house was founded in 1919 by Christobal Balenciaga, who at the time was very highly regarded for his excellence in haute couture and elegance.
His nickname at the time was “King Of Fashion”, thanks to the brand’s innovative use of structure that had never been seen before. Even Christian Dior acknowledged that Balenciaga was a cut above the rest and referred to him as the “master of them all”.
Nowadays, Balenciaga’s look is more focused on streetwear, and it’s very popular among younger consumers. Of their bags, we dare to say that the Hourglass bag is a new classic in the making, while the City Bag is an old fashion favorite that’s seen a revival in the last few years in its new, modernized form.
15. Givenchy
Givenchy is a French luxury fashion house founded by Hubert de Givenchy in 1952, and they’re well known for their bags, accessories, and beauty products.
Givenchy’s Antigona bag is by far its best-known leather piece, and it continues to be popular among working women who need a sturdy bag that can fit a laptop. It is beautifully structured and is made with calfskin leather. Plus, it comes in a wide variety of colors.
16. Valentino Garavani
Valentino Garavani is yet another Italian luxury fashion house that was founded in the 1960s by the man himself, Valentino Garavani. Valentino Garavani is an edgy brand, as you can see from their signature studded products.
If you’re on the bolder, adventurous, playful side, then you won’t be disappointed with Valentino Garavani bags as they are full of bold colors and unique designs.
17. Telfar
Telfar is a new luxury handbag brand that you really need to know about! This brand was founded in New York by Liberian-American fashion designer Telfar Clements and became wildly popular in 2020.
The Telfar Vegan leather shopping tote is the most popular piece from the brand because of the paired-back look and the versatile styling options – now available in a range of colors and sizes. Oprah named this bag one of her favorite things, while Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Bella Hadid, Zoe Kravitz, Beyonce, and Dua Lipa were all spotted with this iconic handbag.
Dazed magazine even named the shopping tote this decade’s most important accessory – so why not add one to your own luxury bag collection?
18. Jacquemus
Simon Porte Jacquemus began his modern and fresh French luxury brand when he was only 20 years old in 2009.
His contemporary and minimalist designs, which are often inspired by his life in the south of France, grew in popularity very quickly, in 2012, Jacquemus was invited to show his collection at Paris Fashion Week. Although Jacquemus may be relatively new to leather goods, the handbags produced by the brand have become an instant hit.
The Le Chiquito bag, Le Bambidou bag, Le Bambino shoulder bag, and Le Sac Rond, have all become instant hits with their striking colors and strong silhouettes. If you are looking for a chic and eye-catching bag, then Jacquemus definitely is the brand you need to go for.
19. Mulberry
Mulberry is a classically British luxury brand, best known for its luxury leather goods, but also offers a full range of leather goods, accessories, shoes, and travel items. If you are looking for timeless design, sophisticated aesthetics, and top-quality materials, Mulberry is a great brand for you.
Mulberry has been creating beautiful bags since the 1970s and there is now a wide range of styles, available in lots of different colors, perfect to suit any personal style. The Alexa bags are one of the most popular styles, crafted from high-quality pebbled leather and available in plenty of colors.
The Amberley is a recent addition to the collection and its minimalist style and chic look make it the ideal everyday handbag you really need in your life.
20. Miu Miu
Miu Miu was founded in 2012 by Miuccia Prada, the creative designer of Prada, and has a youthful, fresher aesthetic than the historic Prada brand. Miu Miu offers a stunning womenswear collection and a beautiful range of accessories that mix the Italian elegance of Prada with a playful touch.
The bags available from Miu Miu are super chic and stylish, with a minimalist color palette that really accentuates the textures and embellishments of the bags.
Miu Miu often makes use of a woven leather technique, known as Matelassé, which you can see on both the bags featured above, giving these bags a striking textural finish. These adorable bags are unique yet timeless, a must-have in your wardrobe.
21. Versace
Versace is known for their opulent, highly decorated, and brightly colored designs that really catch your attention and give any look a glam finish.
The Italian brand was founded by Gianni Versace in 1978 and quickly grew in popularity as his bold designs were worn by Elton John, Elizabeth Hurley, and Michael Jackson. Gianni’s sister took over as creative director in 1997 and has been creating iconic designs, featuring the quintessentially Versace rococo pattern.
The Versace bags are crafted in Italy and have that classic Versace look, with gold hardware as you can see on the Virtus bag, and the famous Medusa head, which sits front and center on the La Medusa Small Handbag.
22. Alaia
The Alaia brand was founded by the incredible Turkish couturier Azzedine Alaia in the late 1970s. Alaia has previously worked for Dior, Guy Laroche, and Thierry Mugler where he learned the art of exquisite craftsmanship and tailoring.
Alaia’s designs grew in popularity in the 1980s, when he became known for his curve0accentuating seaming, inventive use of leather and knits, and fitted silhouettes – these techniques and silhouettes were highlighted by the neutral color palettes of earth tones and monochrome hues.
Alaia’s bags are reflective of the fashion collections, with incredible shapes and silhouettes and amazing leather work that makes Alaia bags completely individual. The silhouette of the Le Papa Crossbody Bag is gorgeous, while the Garance 28 Laser-Cut Leather Tote Bag really shows the brand’s adept leather work.
23. Balmain
Balmain is one of the top French luxury fashion houses, first founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945, and now under the guidance of creative director Olivier Rousteing.
The incredible silhouettes and beautiful fabrics helped to make Pierre’s designs beloved among celebrities, including Katherine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich, and members of royalty, such as the Duchess of Windsor, in the 20th century. Now, Balmain continues to be a favorite brand among celebrities, models, and influencers due to its ultra-fashionable and sophisticated designs.
Rousteing has brought the brand into the 21st century, but kept the timeless aesthetic and exquisite silhouettes, as shown in these classic and stylish luxury handbags – the Balmain 1945 Monogram Lambskin Shoulder Bag and BBuzz 23 Croc-Embossed Calfskin Crossbody Bag.
24. Tom Ford
The iconic American designer, Tom Ford, founded his namesake brand in 2005, after having been the creative director at the historic fashion houses, Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent.
The Tom Ford brand offers men’s and womenswear collections, eyewear, accessories, and handbags, all with sleek and refined designs. Jennifer Lopez, Anne Hathaway, Michelle Obama, and Gwyneth Paltrow are all fans of the Tom Ford brand, often wearing custom pieces from the brand on the red carpet all over the world.
If you are looking for a bag with a polished and minimalist style, then Tom Ford is a fantastic brand to opt for.
25. Off-White
Off-White was founded by the great American designer, Virgil Abloh, in 2012 in Milan, and has been creating bold and eye-catching designs ever since.
The ready-to-wear collections and bags are often decorated with the Off White Arrow logo, as seen on both the Day Off tote and Jackhammer shoulder bag, and graphic-printed quotes to add something a little unique to the collections.
Off White has also taken part in a range of collaborations, including with Levi Strauss, Jimmy Choo, Ikea, Nike, Byredo, and Moncler, each producing highly desirable pieces. This brand has taken the world by storm, and it is only growing bigger and bigger with more exciting and contemporary designs, that you really need in your wardrobe.
What Handbag Styles Are The Most Popular?
Luxury handbags are elite fashion accessories. Whether you’re looking for the perfect bag to go with your new outfit, or you want something that will make an excellent gift for someone special in your life, it’s important to know that handbags come in a variety of styles.
“Handbag” is the umbrella term for most bag styles, but here are the most popular sub-styles:
- Shoulder bags have a long strap that’s designed to be worn over the shoulder. You can sometimes shorten the chain and wear these bags directly under your armpit as well.
- Tote bags or shopping bags have no straps and instead rely on top handles to carry them around without being slung over.
- Crossbody bags come with a very long strap that’s designed to be worn across the body.
- Top-handle bags encompass multiple bag styles in one, but they have one common factor: a top handle. These bags can come with no straps, a shoulder strap or crossbody strap, and can be worn over your body, or simply hanging from your hand.
- A baguette bag is a small, compact, purse-like type of bag that can be worn under your armit, or simply hanging from your hand.
In conclusion, the world of luxury handbags is a fascinating one, filled with rich history, exquisite craftsmanship, and an endless array of styles and designs to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of classic and timeless designs, or prefer to make a bold statement with a daring and unique piece, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to top luxury handbag brands.
From iconic names like Chanel, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton, to the newer players on the scene such as Bottega Veneta and Saint Laurent, each brand offers its own unique take on luxury and elegance, with an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail.
For those who are willing to make the investment, a luxury handbag can be a truly transformative accessory, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit and elevating your overall style to new heights.
So whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out on your luxury handbag journey, there’s no better time to explore the world of top luxury handbag brands and discover the perfect piece to add to your collection.
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