I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (2024)

If you're a woman with a heart that beats for fashion, then it's likely you have a not-so-guilty preference for one particular type of fashion item. Some girls can't resist a new pair of earrings, others find the allure of a freshjumper all too tempting to avoid. I'd say I'm a "shoe person” and have little to no control when I stumble upon a pair of heels that talk to my innermost desires.

Conversely, being a shoe person has made me really good at buying bags (let me explain).Since I'll fall for almost any fancy piece of footwear that looks at me the right way, I’m far more discerning when it comes to handbags.

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (1)

(Image credit: Michaela Efford)

Carrying a new bag brand calledMandel at London Fashion Week

This means I'm fussy in many ways. My bags have to be versatile, well-made,current and yet with the potential to last season after season. I don't love them unconditionally just because they're new or pretty; they have to earn a place in my wardrobe. As such, I've become well acquainted with some of the best handbags in the business.

Fromaffordable options that genuinely look more expensive (and won't fall apart after a few wears) to thedesigner names that are actually worth spending your paycheque on, these are my recommendations for every handbag category…

The Best Luxury Handbag Brands:

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (2)

(Image credit: @hannahalmassi)

This is my favourite little black bag. It'sby Prada and goes with every work outfit.

First things first: If you're going to spend big bucks, please do so on something that will last. I'm not into putting down a wad of cash on something that will only look current for a season—my clothes, bags and shoes all have to work hard for the money.

With that in mind, I think there are certain luxury brands that are renowned for their top-quality leather goods as well as being able to tap into the fashion zeitgeist and produce something that feels at once current and timeless. Clever.

This designer handbag list could go on forever because it's such a competitive market and there are so many options available, but I have narrowed it down to a mere six to help in your search.

1. Prada

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (3)

Prada

Small Saffiano Leather Double Prada Bag

Prada does trend-smashing options as well as it does classics. I'm a big fan of the brand's hardwearing Saffiano leather (that's like a textured high-shine finish) when it comes to choosing a quality day bag you want to carry non-stop.

2. Bottega Veneta

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (4)

Bottega Veneta

Sardine Metal-Handle Intrecciato-Leather Bag

Another Italian luxury fashion house revered for its high standards and impeccable finish, Bottega is best known for its signature woven bags, and I particularly love this style with the sculptural metal handle.

3.Demellier

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (5)

DeMellier

The Midi New York

The New York tote is undeniably a coveted staple from the brand, but the silhouette's smaller sister, the Midi New York, is also a great option worth investing in.

4. Loewe

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (6)

Loewe

Small Puzzle Bag in Soft Grained Calfskin

This Spanish brand is known for its incredible leathers, and it's something that creative director Jonathan Anderson has amped up to the max, creating many It bags since he started at the brand in 2013. The puzzle bag has been particularly popular again over the past year or so and I can see why—it's so laid back and easy to use.

5. Saint Laurent

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Saint Laurent

Le 5 À 7 in Padded Lambskin

We can't talk handbags without mentioning Saint Laurent, their notable Le 5 À 7 is a timelesstop handle design.

6. Gucci

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Gucci

Jackie 1961 Small Shoulder Bag

Show me a fashion editor who doesn't have a Gucci bag. Almost every industry person I know has a bit of the GG action in their lives, and for good reason. This brand knows exactly how to created buzzed-about items, but it also knows how to produce a really solid, everyday kind of crossbody mini bag—a holy grail for those of us on the go.

7. Fendi

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (9)

Fendi

Fendi First Small Bag

We all know Fendi's Baguette bag is a thing of beauty and will forever be cool, but the Italian fashion house creates other great handbag styles too. Right now, I'minto thisFirst clutchbag.

8. Chloé

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (10)

Chloé

Woody Medium Leather-Trimmed Cotton-Canvas Tote

Chloé has had more It bags in its time than I've had really hot dinners, and many of those styles from the past still stand up today as a worthwhile investment.Many of the Chloé bags feature quite distinct hardware details and I have to admit, I prefer the plainer options. So this canvas Woody tote is the kind of bag I'd happily carryyear-round forever more.

9. Mulberry

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (11)

Mulberry

Clovelly Tote

British brand Mulberry is still respected for its top-quality manufacturing and hardworking handbags, but the product offering these days is so much more varied and exciting than it was a decade ago.A steady stream of sensible, covetable handbags all have nods to trends and current details, but every single style—new or old—feels relevant and long-lasting.

10. Hermès

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (12)

Hermès

Constance Exotic Leathers Handbag

Hermès bags are amongst some of the most expensive in the world due to the incredible craftsmanship behind each and every piece. The French brand's leather goods also tend to retain their value (so long as you don't completely destroy one) and could be considered a very wise investment if you have, oh, you know, £10,000 or more to spare.

11. Celine

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (13)

Celine

Classique Triomphe Bag

French fashion house Celine is well know for its beautiful handbags, from the iconic luggage tote to modern day classics like the crossbody Triomphe. The perfect black bag, it's equal parts practical and stylish. Well worth the investment, we feel.

12. The Row

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (14)

The Row

Sofia 10 Large Nubuck Shoulder Bag

While The Row's Margaux bag has been claimed by experts as the modern-day Birkin, there are so many pieces to love that will hold their value just as well as the Birkin does.

The Best Contemporary Handbag Brands:

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (15)

(Image credit: @hannahalmassi)

Elleme's raffia Baozi bag

This is the part of the handbag industry that's been hotting up for years. Hitting around the £300 to £600 mark, new designer brands you can perhaps afford have been cropping up every season. With more to come for the rest of this year, it's clear that both retailers and shoppers are responding with some real zeal.

Once upon a time, this corner of the market was pretty empty (you could maybe get something around this price point from Marc Jacobs or See by Chloé), but now, it's hard to filter my favourites down into something digestible for you and your wardrobe. I've given it my best shot by grouping together the best contemporary bags I've invested in as well as the favourites amongst my fellow editors.

13.Aspinal of London

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (16)

Aspinal of London

Small Florence Frame Bag

If something classic is your jam, thenAspinal of London is the answer. The British brand has seen great success withitssmart top handle bags, toted by some of the most famous celebrities, from Kate Middleton to Jennifer Lopez.

14.Oroton

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (17)

Oroton

Fable Small Day Bag

Australian label Oroton has only recently come to the UK butthe brand isover 80 years old and a real favourite in its homeland.It's all about pared back shapes in neutral colours, aka the kind of simple-yet-effective handbags that go with everything.

15. Wandler

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (18)

Wandler

Penelope Micro Leather Shoulder Bag

Wandler is perhaps the most popular handbag brand in our office (four people own one). New styles are now filtering in and all of us would be more than happy adding to our collection. I've carried my mini Wandler (in white, might I add) so many times that you'd expect it to be battered, but it still looks perfect.

16. Toteme

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (19)

Toteme

Scooped Sling Bglack

Toteme is a go-to brand for minimalist Scandi styles with a contemporary twist, and their bags perfectly nail the aesthetic. Sleek, understated and beautifully made, these are perfect for those who love The Row's minimalism but don't want to pay thousands.

17. Elleme

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (20)

Elleme

Raisin Leather Handbag

Elleme is a French brand that I've been in love with for a few years now. I own a couple ofits styles — a Baozi and one of these Raisin totes (above) — and get plenty of wear out of both. They're unusual but still plain enough to keep using on repeat, plus they're beautifully manufactured.

18. Dragon Diffusion

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (21)

Dragon Diffusion

Diagonal Triple Jump Woven-Leather Tote Bag

Dragon Diffusion's bags are handmade and purposefully created to feel artisanal and unique with slightly wonky silhouettes and an aged patina finish. They're the perfect chuck-everything-in-and-go kind of bags, and French girls are particularly keen.

19. By Far

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (22)

By Far

Black Miranda Bag

When it comes to trendsetting bags,BY FAR is always at thestart of the curve.Its '90s inspired shoulder bags have spawned many a copycat, and now they're experimenting more with iterations like pocket styles andfun colours.

20. Marni Market

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (23)

Marni Market

Brown Marni Market Sunday Mini Basket Bag

I'm a huge fan of Marni's mainline leathergoods (andits Trunk bag isa classic style I'm really keen to save up for one day), but there's a little diffusion artisanal line called Marni Market, which is full of joyful shoppers and totes in woven, knitted and crocheted fabrics atmore affordable prices.

Best Affordable Handbag Brands:

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (24)

(Image credit: @hannahalmassi)

My cat, Folly, and a cute beaded bag from Topshop.

Buying expensive-looking handbags on the high street is still—even in 2024—really difficult. I think it's best to go one of two ways: Either opt for something really minimal (and ideally made of suede or leather) or choose to indulge the wilder trends and cuter styles on a budget. Sometimes it's tricky to tell whether a beaded bag cost you £500 or £25, for example.

21. COS

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (25)

COS

Swing Leather Crossbody Bag

COS's bag offering has really improved over the last few seasons, with super-minimal leather and fabric styles that you could easily trick someone into thinking they're from The Row. No joke!

22.Mango

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (26)

Mango

Leather-Effect Shoulder Bag

If you're into designer styles but don't have the budget to spare, thenMango will be a surefire hit. The brand specialises inaffordable, but expensive-looking designsthat feel elevated and incredibly modern.

23. Charles & Keith

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (27)

Charles & Keith

Asymmetrical Shoulder Bag

Charles & Keith's vegan leather bags are more exciting than your average, and the brand will try quite daring trends. You can also find bags that strike a note somewhere in the middle, like thissleek minimalist style.

24. H&M

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (28)

H&M

Shoulder Bag

Regular readers will know that we really rate H&M for affordable classics you'll have in your wardrobe for years. The brand's bag selection is one of the best on the high street, with plenty of staple styles as well as cute evening options and practical totes, too.

25. Baggu

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (29)

Baggu

Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

Baggu's reusable nylon bags are just so handy!

26. Arket

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (30)

Arket

Leather Crossbody Bag

Arket's bags are of a similar ilk to COS: Minimal in style, nicely made and guaranteed to last.Itscross-body bucked styles have been particularly favoured recently.

27. Zara

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (31)

ZARA

Flat Leather Shopper Bag

Zara is always going to be more trend-driven than classic, but grab-and-go styles like this tote will be handy for many years to come.

28. Massimo Dutti

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (32)

Massimo Dutti

Woven Nappa Leather Bucket Bag

Zara's sister brand Massimo Dutti has been serving up expensive-looking handbags for years, but this season's offering feels particularly special.

29. Topshop

I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (33)

Topshop

Stella Scoop Shoulder Bag

Let's be honest, we were all gutted when Topshop closed its doors back in 2021. But, we weren't without the high-street giant for long, as the brand was then taken over by ASOS. Now, fashion lovers can shop Topshop products online, including their vast collection of very chic—and very reasonably priced—handbags. This shoulder bag looks far beyond it's £28 price tag, don't you think?

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

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I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are My All-Time Favourite Handbag Brands (2024)

FAQs

Why are bags important in fashion? ›

Bags aren't just functional; they can also be used as a fashion accessories. The right bag can really pull an outfit together and make you look your best. Whether you're looking for a pop of color or a classic black handbag, using a bag as an accessory is a great way to elevate your style.

How can I be successful in handbags business? ›

8 Tips To Be Successful In Handbag Business
  1. Plan Ahead. Planning is essential for productivity in any business. ...
  2. Consider Reselling. ...
  3. Set the right price. ...
  4. Register your business. ...
  5. Offer variety and quality. ...
  6. Promote Your Business. ...
  7. Use promotions. ...
  8. Maintain a Good Reputation.

Who makes the best handbags? ›

  • Prada. Small Saffiano Leather Double Prada Bag. £3500. ...
  • Bottega Veneta. Sardine. £3140. ...
  • DeMellier. The Midi New York. ...
  • Loewe. Small Puzzle Bag in Soft Grained Calfskin. ...
  • Saint Laurent. Le 5 À 7 in Padded Lambskin. ...
  • Gucci. Jackie 1961 Small Shoulder Bag. ...
  • Fendi. Fendi First Small Bag. ...
  • Chloé Woody Medium Leather-Trimmed Cotton-Canvas Tote.
Feb 15, 2024

What is the main purpose of a handbag? ›

A handbag, commonly known as a purse in North American English, is a handled medium-to-large bag used to carry personal items.

Are handbags part of fashion? ›

In fashion, accessories frequently help define a person's style and improve their overall appearance. Purses and handbags are classic accessories that have endured through the ages.

Are Dooney and Bourke considered luxury? ›

Dooney & Bourke is an American luxury leather goods brand founded in 1975 by designer Peter Dooney and entrepreneur Frederic Bourke in Norwalk, Connecticut.

What color handbag goes with everything? ›

Black, nude, gray, tan, navy blue, burgundy, olive-green, etc. handbags are some of the best shades that go well with all your looks and outfits. Metallic shades and accents are currently in style to add glamour and trendiness to your look, so they match your outfits well, too.

Which is the no. 1 bag brand in the world? ›

Louis Vuitton, known across the world as the maker of unique, expensive and very expressive sets of handbags. The retro-themed, monogram canvas speedy handbags are well-regarded and have a very high brand recall value – whenever someone says “Louis Vuitton”, these bags come first in the mind.

How much does it cost to start a handbag line? ›

Some estimates put the cost of starting a small handbag making business at around $10,000 to $50,000, while others estimate that it could cost upwards of $100,000 or more. Here are some potential costs to consider when starting a handbag making business: Rent or lease for a workshop or studio space.

Do handbags sell well on Amazon? ›

Selling bags on Amazon can be a great way to reach a wide audience and make a profit. With millions of customers visiting Amazon every day, there is a huge potential market for your bags.

What company sells the most expensive handbags? ›

Multimillion-dollar bags from Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Mouawad, and more are some of the most expensive in history.

What is the hottest designer bag right now? ›

20 of the most popular designer bags of 2024 so far
  • PRADA Medium Leather Bag.
  • FERRAGAMO Fiamma Crossbody.
  • GIVENCHY Voyou Bag.
  • DIOR Large Toujours Bag.
  • BURBERRY Knight Bag.
  • LEMAIRE Fortune Croissant Bag.
  • MARGE SHERWOOD Black Zip Shoulder Bag.
  • AXEL ARIGATO Signature Bag.
4 days ago

Which handbag brand has highest resale value? ›

Top 15 Designer Bags with the Best Resale Value
  • Goyard St. ...
  • Hermès Picotin Lock. ...
  • Chanel Coco Handle. ...
  • Fendi Baguette. ...
  • Goyard Anjou. ...
  • Louis Vuitton Neverfull. ...
  • Goyard Belvédère. ...
  • Hermès Evelyne. The casual and breezy Hermès Evelyne rounds out our list of designer bags with the best resale value.
Apr 23, 2024

Is Coach a high-end brand? ›

Coach is the epitome of classic luxury leather goods. Although it also specialises in men's and women's clothing and accessories, its bags and leather products have seen it soar to the heights it's at today.

What is the importance of a bag? ›

Bags have been fundamental for the development of human civilization, as they allow people to easily collect and carry loose materials, such as berries or food grains, also allowing them to carry more items in their hands.

What does the bag symbolize in life? ›

It symbolizes the need to carry our burdens and responsibilities, as well as the desire to be self-sufficient and ready for any situation. The bag represents our ability to hold onto our possessions, memories, and emotions. It may also signify the need to let go of unnecessary baggage or burdens in our waking life.

Why are plastic bags important to society? ›

Plastic bags are extremely compact and lightweight, occupying less space in landfills than other forms of bags. This means that landfills may hold more waste while remaining the same size, decreasing the demand for new landfills. Reusing plastic bags is an even more environmentally friendly option than recycling.

What are the advantages of bags? ›

Plastic is one of the most popular packaging materials for a variety of reasons.
  • Plastic Bags Are Thin and Lightweight. ...
  • Plastic Bags Are Flexible and Adaptable. ...
  • Plastic Bag Packaging is Strong and Durable. ...
  • Plastic Bags Are a Cost-Effective Solution. ...
  • Plastic Bags Are More Environmentally Friendly Than You Might Think.

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