When it comes to wardrobe investments, there is nothing quite like a great designer handbag. Choose the right one, look after it correctly and it will be a wardrobe mainstay for the rest of your life. It may even be an item that you pass down through the generations, or be something you eventually sell and may even make money on.
With that being said, if you are thinking of splurging on a new designer bag, then it is definitely worth considering a style that will stand the test of time, rather than just a one-season wonder that will eventually end up gathering dust at the back of your wardrobe. For this, the best option is either to look to the classics – some of which may have had a modern makeover, but are still very much trend-free – or to snap up designs that have an endless elegance about them (think timeless colours, seasonless silhouettes and trusty fabrics).
So here, we round up 35 of the best designer handbags which are unlikely to date anytime soon, and will certainly never feel like a regretful purchase.
Many may be names you are already familiar with; forever staples from Chanel, Fendi and Dior, but you will also find new styles from heritage brands, and new names to know in the world of designer handbags, in this round-up. These are the accessories that are actually worth investing in, whether you are treating yourself or looking for a very special gift, in the market for an evening bag or are after a tote that's perfect for the office. These are designer names you can trust.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, we have got you covered, too. See our round-up of the best designer handbags under £500, here. And, don't forget about pre-loved styles. Make sure to check out the best luxury resale sites to sell your old bag or to hunt for a secondhand bargain.
The best designer handbags to invest in now
Louis Vuitton
Add some glamour to any look with Louis Vuitton's beautiful Twist MM bag, which comes in a number of different colours.
Leather handbag, £3,550, Louis Vuitton
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Dior
It's not difficult to see why Dior's Book Tote remains so popular – the style, which has fast become a staple of the house, is the perfect way to elevate any daytime ensemble.
Embroidered bag, £2,500, Dior
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Ferragamo
Maximilian Davis has won widespread praise for how he has reimagined house classics at Ferragamo. This includes the Wanda, a bag that was first introduced in 1988 in honour of Salvatore’s wife, Wanda Ferragamo. Davis has reworked it with new geometric proportions, and it comes in three shapes: a horizontal silhouette to look like a clutch, a vertical square shape, and a mini version for evenings. We love the square style in black for a timeless wardrobe addition.
Leather-and-canvas bag, £2,155, Ferragamo
JW Anderson
JW Anderson's Bumper bag has become a real favourite in the Bazaar office, and with so many colours to choose from, there really is a style for everyone (as well as the more curvy Bumper Moon). See more about the Bumper bag here.
Leather bag, was £594, now JW Anderson
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Dolce & Gabbana
Dolce & Gabana's Sicily bag comes in a number of different hues, and is a year-round winner. The ladylike silhouette means it can dress up any ensemble, but it is also the perfect size for carrying around day to day.
Leather bag, £1,450, Dolce & Gabbana
16Arlington
16Arlington's Kikka bag is named after its late co-founder, Federica Cavenati – and has become a signature of the house, and a real favourite of fashion editors.
Bag, £920, 16Arlington
Paco Rabanne
Paco Rabanne's 1969 bag is one which has undoubtedly stood the test of time, still just as popular today as it was when it first launched. Truly a handbag icon, this is one for your after-dark wardrobe.
Discover the fascinating history of the 1969 bag here.
Chainmail bag, was £520, now £364, Paco Rabanne
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Isabel Marant
After something a little more relaxed and casual? We love this Western-inspired slouchy suede shoulder bag from Isabel Marant. Make it the hero of your weekend wardrobe.
Suede bag, £555, Isabel Marant
Saint Laurent
We love this small, new-season Kaia bag from YSL, which is sure to become a treasured piece in your wardrobe.
Kate 99 suede bag, £1,350, Saint Laurent
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Hermès
Now here is a bag that needs no introduction; the Hermès Birkin, one of the most famous handbags of all time and one that is usually very difficult to get your hands on. However, Farfetch's vintage offering is currently selling a pre-owned Birkin in cream, which probably won't be hanging around for long.
Leather bag, £18,066, Vintage Hermès at Farfetch
Celine
Celine is a firm favourite for chic accessories, crafted from the most luxurious materials. This Triomphe bag is particularly special – a signature style, which is available in number of classic colours, including navy and tan.
Read more about the history of the Triomphe here.
Leather bag, £3,200, Celine by Hedi Slimane
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Balenciaga
Balenciaga's Cagole style is a new iteration from the house, one which is inspired by the silhouette of its cult City bag. It would make a very chic addition to both your day-to-day and your evening wardrobe.
Leather bag, £1,890, Balenciaga
Alexander McQueen
The Curve is one of the chicest new offerings from Alexander McQueen's accessory collection, but is a style that we think will be around for decades. Featuring a harness-inspired silhouette, the leather bag can be worn as a crossbody or on the shoulder by changing the length of the strap. We love this mini style, but it comes in bigger sizes too.
Leather bag, £1,190, Alexander McQueen