The designer handbags worth investing in 

When it comes to designer handbags, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by new shapes, prints and colours as we’re inundated with must-have styles each season. Only a handful are able to truly stand the test of time and, for these bags, they not only retain their worth but also increase in value.

Designer handbags from renowned, luxury brands such as Chanel, Hermes and Dior have never gone out of fashion and, whilst we can’t predict the future, we bet they never will either. Their popularity is only increasing and the skilled craftmanship at the heart of the bags means they are a safe investment to splurge on.

We have rounded up a selection that will still be desirable years from now.

Chanel 2.55 flap bag

You can’t think of investment handbags without the iconic French fashion house instantly coming to mind. Coco Chanel first introduced the classic flap bag in 1929, before debuting the quilted shoulder crossbody version we’ve come to know and love in 1955. The bag was one of the first designs to match the newfound freedoms for women, allowing them to go hands-free with its practical design.

The bag is still as popular as ever today, and is one of the bestselling handbags on pre-owned websites like Vestiaire Collection. In the last five years, the price has increased 140%, making this one timeless staple you’ll never lose out on.

Lady Dior

Fit for royalty, the iconic Lady Dior has long been established as one of the most popular designer handbags and a firm favourite of the late Princess Diana. Following its original launch in 1994, France’s First Lady, Bernadette Chirac, gifted the bag to the Princess of Wales in September 1995; the bag was then renamed the Lady Dior in 1996 in homage to the Princess, who was rarely seen without it.

The padded stitched leather reflects the Dior house codes, and the Dior letter charm pendants are shaped by hand and act as a classic staple to the signature bag. The bag comes in three sizes – original, mini and large – as well as numerous materials and colours, all of which are equally covetable.

Hermès Birkin

If you’re in the market for a real splurge, then Hermès is one brand you definitely want to consider. Named after English singer Jane Birkin, this design became a symbol of wealth and exclusivity due to its high price and long waiting lists when it was first introduced in the 1980s. They are considered the most popular bag with handbag collectors, so if you are prepared to make the investment, this is definitely a style that will see you reap the rewards in years to come.

Chloe Drew

Chloe’s iconic shoulder bag has earned itself a spot as one designer handbag worth investing in, thanks to its celebrity-loved silhouette. A firm street style favourite, Drew comes in a range of colours but it might be worth opting for a black or tan version for a classic, long-lasting option. 

Mulberry Bayswater

Dubbed the quintessential British “it” bag, the Bayswater has held the coveted top spot of the most-wanted Mulberry bag since its launch in 2003. Designer Nicholas Knightly looked to create a timeless handbag that was supple yet structured when he joined the British fashion house back in 2002.

The result was the Bayswater which featured comfortable, shoulder-sized handles, a postman’s lock closure and an adjustable side strap to wear the bag long. Since its launch, the classic handbag has been modernised with small tweaks to the structure and aesthetic whilst retaining its timeless versatility. With its adjustable side gussets, the larger capacity Bayswater can even fit a laptop, making it a perfect everyday staple.

Louis Vuitton Neverfull

Arguably one of the world’s most recognisable totes, the Neverfull is one of the best investment purchases on the market. Available in three sizes, the PM is the best for petite carriers, the MM is the perfect everyday option, and the GM is recommended for travel and work. As the name suggests, it truly is never full, no matter what the size.

The Monogram and Damier versions are known to retain their value, while the limited edition collaborations can often be resold for double their original price. Special colourways or one-off collections increase demand, and this rarity will drive up the price.

Alexandra Davis