The 13 Most Popular Designer Handbags, As Told by Experts

Every season, new handbag trends make their way into the street style world, and each season, we eagerly scout said accessories. Over fashion weeks and general street spotting, the fashion crowd has shown that as far as handbags go, there are a few that never go out of style. We’re seeing this right now with reissued brand icons, from Gucci’s Jackie bag to Chanel’s classic flap. New interpretations come in updated colourways from pastels to metallic options. Sometimes, though, it’s the classic designer handbags you simply can’t say no to, because they are just that: classic.

If you’re unsure about which luxury piece to splurge on, consider turning to the most popular designer bags ever. It’s no easy feat to earn such a title, and though many come attached with a pretty big price tag, they’re worth the splurge and deserve a spot in your collection.

They’ve been the most sought-after year after year (just take a look at the fashion people below as proof), and they’ll continue to be a great pick for seasons to come. The big question is which bags make an edit of such ilk? I sought the expert insight of Rachel Ingram (@rachelingramrabin), CEO at Folk Social and previously editor-in-chief at personalised luxury shopping service Threads Styling (@threadsstyling), to find out which styles should be on the list—no questions asked.

So are you ready to see our roundup of the 12 most popular designer bags those in the know are convinced are the most classic? Read on to see and shop them below.

1. The Birkin Bag

Named after Jane Birkin, this bag has been coveted since its inception in 1984. The BBC revealed how it came to be: “Its existence was a happy accident, borne out of an exchange between Birkin and former Hermès chief executive Jean-Louis Dumas on an Air France flight from Paris to London in the early ’80s,” the BBC wrote.

As for Ingram’s take? “The Birkin is the ultimate It bag that has stood the test of time and is impossible to get your hands on! (Hasn’t everyone seen that Sex and the City episode where Samantha tries to get one? It really is like that!) Threads have sourced some of the hardest-to-find Birkins for clients, the rarest being a diamond-encrusted Himalayan Birkin. But it is a sound investment, as on average, the value of Birkins has risen by 16% year on year since 2016, with special colours rising by an average of 20%.”

Shop the Birkin Bag:

2. The Chanel Quilted Flap Bag

Nothing says luxury like a Chanel bag. The quilted flap designs have been an integral part of the brand’s history since Coco Chanel herself designed this bag in 1955.

“Chanel’s classic flap bags are a true collector’s piece, as they come in such a beautiful array of fabrics, sizes and colours,” says Ingram. “With green being the colour of the season, we have seen requests for green flap bags go through the roof. The flap bags never lose their value.”

Shop the Chanel Flap Bag:

3. The Gucci Jackie

A handbag roundup is not complete without mentioning Gucci, and the brand’s Jackie bag has become a classic. If you recognise the name, then it’s probably because, technically, this bag isn’t new.

The handbag was initially named after Jackie Kennedy and has been a hero Gucci item for years, but for Gucci’s A/W 20 runway show, the brand relaunched with a bit of a makeover. Now, it’s seldom far from the arms of those in the know.

Shop the Jackie Bag:

4. The Dior Saddle Bag

Dior’s first Saddle Bag debuted in 1999 when John Galliano was still at the helm of the house, and its high resale value is proof that it’s still coveted today. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Rihanna are among the celebrities who own this chic style.

The surprisingly roomy interior makes it an excellent elevated day bag option, but its sleek shoulder strap and interesting shape ensure it works just as well after dark and for formal ensembles, too.

Shop the Saddle Bag:

5. The Loewe Puzzle Bag

While Chanel and Louis Vuitton bags are recognisable to the masses, Loewe bags are a bit more niche for fashion people in the know—making them all the more desirable for discerning customers.

While most Loewe bags are proving to be sound investments, the Puzzle bag is quickly becoming a timeless classic. A firm favourite for the street style set since its inception in 2015, the iconic shape is updated every season in new dreamy colour combinations.

Shop the Puzzle Bag:

6. The Toteme T-Lock

Toteme’s approach to slow fashion is especially clear in the creation of the T-Lock bag. A refined silhouette, a practical shape and a timeless style, this bag is one that is designed to go the distance, and bring a luxury edge to all ensembles.