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Writer's pictureKasey

10 Must-Have Designer Handbags


I am a self-proclaimed bag lady with an addiction to designer resale websites. With the countless hours I have wasted looking at bags I can't afford, I have finally decided to compile a list of my 10 must-have designer bags to collect. This list has some very obvious choices with the addition of a few unique bags you won't find on other lists. Personally, if this list were only for me, about half would be Chanel bags. I wanted to show my top pick from a variety of designers in styles that suit a variety of needs. Think of this as a list that rounds out a whole purse wardrobe from the daily totes to the weekend bag to the ultimate party accessory. One of my favorite things about the bags on this list are the many options of color ways and sizes. Yes, there are some classics, but they have been reinvented so many times that you can choose to go have fun with it, or stick to the tried and true. Like the nature of fashion, I wanted this list to act as a backbone for people interpret it as they please. All of these bags can be bought new, but here I included some options from resale sites because this is how I buy my bags now.

1. Louis Vuitton Speedy

The most obvious choice on the list. This was the first designer bag that I bought for myself at Étoile Luxury Vintage in Amsterdam. I had my eye set on buying a Chanel while I was studying in Paris, but I just could not get myself to spend that much on myself while I am still young. As a result, I couldn't leave Europe without some designer arm candy. I made my last minute decision to buy a Speedy because I thought I needed to buy one eventually anyway. Even if it is the basic bitch of the designer bag spectrum, I actually love this bag. My Speedy 30 has its flaws, which is the reason I could buy it at a good price, but I can stuff my gym clothes in it, zip it up, and still look chic. I love giving my accessories some accessories too, and the neutral monogram backdrop is perfect to tie on a printed silk scarf or to clip on one of those little purse puff balls.


2. Chanel Classic Flap

I've been dreaming of this bag since middle school. All I wanted was a perfect quilted black 2.55 Chanel with gold hardware and my life would be complete. Well, I still don't have one and I am still dreaming about it. This bag is also not a surprising option for the list. A black Classic Flap is considered a staple for most luxury wardrobes. With all of the different options that have been released, the possibilities are endless to find one that suits your individual style. I hope someday I can find the ombre ones that were released in the late 2000's. Yes, they are kind of tacky, but I sometimes need a little kitschiness in my life.


3. Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote

You may know this brand, you may not. Their origins are very similar to Louis Vuitton, but they choose to remain secret and super exclusive. They don't advertise, the styles don't venture too far from their roots and there are few stores worldwide. If you are looking for a luxury everyday bag that isn't begging for attention, this is the perfect choice. With a signature monogram in a variety of colors, it is a fun basic that is big enough to also hold your gym clothes, and maybe some snacks. It even comes with a matching pouch where you can hold lipstick or extra scrunchies.


4. Fendi Baguette

I love this bag so much, I bought three last fall (no joke). It's Carrie Bradshaw approved and now more in demand with Fendi's comeback. Is it a day bag that can be worn into the night, or an evening bag that you can also pull off during the day? Whatever option, if you're the type of woman who only carries a phone, wallet, and sunglasses, this is a cute addition to your purse wardrobe.


5. Dior Saddle Bag

Another 2000's bag with a newfound resurgence in recent collections. This classic is another small bag that packs sartorial punch. It has been seen on Bella Hadid, so I guess that's how we know things are cool. (On a side note, I actually think Bella's off-duty style is really good.) There is a classic version with a flap, a double saddle that is a medium handbag size, or a mini version that is basically just a pouch with a handle.


6. Prada Nylon Backpack

I've been really influenced by the sportiness of Prada's latest fall collection. Coincidentally, I have also been wanting one of their black nylon backpacks. Prada does make ladylike and colorful bags, but I think in the luxury backpack section, this is my top choice. Consider this the cool weekend bag of the group because can look sporty-chic on your way to yoga class or 90's cool at brunch with a floral dress.


7. Chloe Drew

If you're addicted to Instagram like me, I know you've seen this bag because this is a staple for all those big insta-fashion girls at fashion week. As one of the newer styles on this list, it hasn't taken long to become a staple in fashion closets. The structural shape and delicate chain make this bag a feminine addition to any outfit. I like to see these bags with flowing dresses to complement the softness of the bag, but it would also upgrade a tee and distressed cutoffs.


8. YSL Kate

This is the party girl of this crew. She stays up late, only drinks craft cocktails, and somehow manages to still look pristine. She's small and simple, but knows how to dose out a kick of glamour. From floral print to electric pink, this cross-body is my choice "going-out" bag. Literally think of Kate Moss in bag form and this is it.


9. Gucci Fanny Pack

With the resurgence of the 80's and 90's, we all know fanny packs (or bum bags or belt bags) are the newest, trendiest bag. It keeps you handsfree while also defining your waist and keeping snacks on hand. The choice for a Gucci fanny pack is actually a two-for-one because I like both the utilitarian monogram style and the new Marmont. This one is a free pick for you! Whether you're feeling more sporty or sleek, I think Gucci is the way to go for your luxe booty bag.


10. Céline Luggage Tote

We are rounding out the list with this Céline classic. It was the ultimate it-bag a couple years ago, but I think it deserves a permanent spot on the list. It is a basic with a twist, and in a variety of sizes and colors, any woman can find a way to work this bag into her daily rotation. I'd wear this bag with a relaxed suit and sneakers or with a midi pleated skirt, white tee, and denim jacket. I mean you can honestly wear whatever you want with this bag, but that's just how I pictured myself wearing it now.

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