The Best Designer Bags That Are Worth the Investment, According to Style Editors

Since its founding in 2016, French newcomer Polène has made a splash in the world of accessible luxury brands; fashion people (and Kate Middleton) love this house. “Polène's Numéro Dix is endlessly versatile,” says Architectural Digest commerce editor Audrey Lee. “It’s elevated my most basic outfits and served as a trusty going-out bag thanks to the durable pebbled leather (though there’s a variety of 17 textures and colors available). It comes with a longer strap, which you can attach to convert the purse into a crossbody but I think it’s most stylish sitting as a shoulder bag.”

Behind the brand: Founded by three siblings, Polène produces leather bags in Ubrique, a Spanish town renowned for its craftsmanship in the material.

Known for: As a new house, Polène has established itself with bags that lean more timeless than trendy; the Numéro Dix, Numéro Huit, and Numéro Neuf are great places to start.

“Tory Burch handbags will last forever, but more so than that, they are all incredibly chic and gorgeous,” says Jessica Radloff, Glamour senior editor. “I’m such a fan of the Lee Radziwill, which is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, thanks to its accordion-like design with a slider buckle and leather whipstitch. The contrasting colors (in my case, sky blue and light tangerine with clay beige) make it fashion-forward and a wardrobe staple that will go with anything. It’s perfect for the office or brunch, and although it costs half of my month’s rent, I know I’ll have it forever.”

Behind the brand: Tory Burch spans a vast array of ready-to-wear, accessories, and home decor. While it has long been known for its monogram accessories, the brand has been on a recent high-fashion roll, becoming one of the premier runway shows at New York Fashion Week.

Known for: The Ella tote, which comes in various sizes and fabrics (leather, printed nylon, raffia), among many other signature styles.

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There are many high-end tote bags in this world, but few balance brand value and price per wear as expertly as this one. “The Saint Laurent Shopping Bag is, for a luxury item, a good buy at $1,500,” says Amy Odell, founder of the fashion newsletter Back Row. “I like how structured and durable it is.” You could use it for shopping, as the name implies, but it’s especially great for work: There’s enough room (and structure) in the main compartment for a laptop, a change of shoes, a wallet, a book, and anything else you might need in a day.

Behind the brand: Yves Saint Laurent originally founded his brand as an haute couture house. Anthony Vaccarello is the current creative director of the French maison, which is now known as Saint Laurent. (The brand’s perfume is still under the YSL name.)

Known for: Accessories that embody a Parisian cool factor with popular bag styles including Le 5 à 7 hobos and quilted Lou cross-body styles, both embellished with the elegant logo.

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“Some Jacquemus bags are a bit too trendy for me, but I love the giant bead on the Le Bisou bag so much that I’m ready to add it to my collection,” says Vogue senior commerce editor Talia Abbas.

Behind the brand: Simon Porte Jacquemus founded Jacquemus in 2009 after moving from the South of France to Paris.

Known for: Its tiny colorful bags, like Le Bisou, Mini Chiquito, and Bambino.

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A favorite of royals like Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, DeMellier is an under-the-radar brand that provides a nice counterbalance to houses with more exposure. “The designs always make me feel a little more polished and pulled together, even if I’m just in jeans,” says Paula Lee, a Glamour fashion contributor and brand consultant. “Currently, I’m hoping for its signature Vancouver style in a light neutral color as we head into the warmer months. More often than not, I use a cross-body, and I’m really into the structured shape, smooth leather, and minimal gold hardware of this one.”

Behind the brand: Mireia Llusia-Lindh founded DeMellier to offer ethically crafted and responsibly sourced handbags at attainable price points. The collection is designed in London and made in family-owned factories in Spain.

Known for: Modern, sleek styles that can take you from work to weekend.

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“As a freelance writer, I can (and do) work from everywhere—home, coffee shops, libraries, you name it. So nothing sells me like a bag that can fit both my laptop and Kindle,” says Deanna Pai, a freelance editor. “I love this classic tote from Mansur Gavriel, which is spacious enough for everything I need while still being structured enough to take to meetings and appointments. Plus, the color is beautiful and it fits into the Citi Bike baskets, so I can secure when I’m riding around town.”

Behind the brand: Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel founded their eponymous label in 2013 to almost instant success; Katie Holmes, Taylor Swift, and Naomi Watts, among many other A-listers, have been spotted in the brand.

Known for: The brand’s hero styles—and its two first products—are its tote bag and its bucket bag, two handbag collection staples. Don’t miss the brand’s stellar wallets and ballet flats, though.

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Loewe is the opposite of a newcomer, but there’s been an intense renewed interest in the brand thanks to a plethora of buzzy new bags—chief among them the Flamenco. “I personally love my Loewe Flamenco. I hemmed and hawed over which bag to buy for many years and am very happy with my purchase,” Odell says. “I have traveled with it and I bring it around New York City often, and it’s been great. I love the smaller size, which comes with a chain you can tuck away, as well (though I haven’t purchased one).” This one, meanwhile, converts to a shoulder bag with a leather strap.

Behind the brand: This luxury Spanish brand is the eldest in the LVMH portfolio (it was founded in the 19th century), with JW Anderson as the current creative director.

Known for: Its wicker totes and Puzzle bags are bestsellers, though editors and celebs love its Squeeze Tote just as much.

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“If you're a mom, this bag is especially great when you're pushing your stroller around and want your basics, including small wipes, on hand,” says Divya Viswanathan, vice president and commerce portfolio lead at Condé Nast. “It also looks great when you dress it up—it really does go from day to night easily.”

Behind the brand: Founded in 1966 with a focus on leather, the luxury Italian house is now part of the Kering portfolio. With Daniel Lee’s creative director appointment in 2018, the heritage brand underwent a modern reinvention (dubbed New Bottega) and catapulted into cult status. Today Matthieu Blazy continues to uphold the buzzy label’s aesthetic.

Known for: Beautifully crafted leather handbags, with the intrecciato (woven) weave as a house signature.

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Crafted from supple suede panels with just a hint of slouch, this zip-top tote from the relatively new brand Métier is the epitome of quiet luxury. “I decided to leave the canvas tote behind and carry all my essentials in style,” says stylist Casey Trudeau. “Initially, I purchased this Métier suede tote with the intention of using it for big meetings, but it has become my go-to carryall for everyday use.” Plus, it’s big enough to function as a chic carry-on, with enough room for tech, a change of clothes, shoes, and a water bottle.

Behind the brand: London-based label Métier was launched in 2017 and offers artisanal handcrafted in Italy leather accessories for the modern traveler.

Known for: Its quiet luxury aesthetic that puts premium leather and craftsmanship at the forefront. Fans include Kate Middleton, Kate Moss, and Nicole Kidman.

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“This bag from Spanish brand Hereu is called the Bombon, which as an American makes me think of a cute little cake, but I have since learned is a slang term for ‘sexy lady’ or ‘bombshell’ in Spanish,” says Stephanie McNeal, a senior editor at Glamour. “I feel like the combination of the two really speaks to this bag’s essence. She’s adorable, but also sleek and ready for a night out. It’s roomy enough to be carried for a day outing, but also does double duty as a clutch, and can be worn with her thin, adjustable shoulder strap or daintily grasped by her braided handles. A true day-to-night icon.”

Behind the brand: Named for the Catalan word for “heir,” Hereu was founded in 2014 and has earned a cult following for its leather shoes and bags.

Known for: Its high-quality, sustainably produced shoes—although its bags (clearly) are just as worth the investment.

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“BRIE QUOTE NEEDED,” says Glamour commerce director Brie Scwartz. “MORE.”

Behind the brand: The French label has been putting out high-end accessories since 1948, eventually expanding into the nylon tote bags that have become staples on city streets.

Known for: The Le Pliage nylon tote is the brand’s most iconic design, but there are plenty more styles and materials to explore.

“I typically gravitate toward chain-strap styles if I’m buying a designer bag that’ll mostly be used for evening, but I bit the bullet on this sexy, curvy JW Anderson piece,” says Perrie Samotin, Glamour digital director. “The green leather is a nice change from my usual all-black predilection, and the tiny Swarovski crystals [on certain editions] add serious party vibes. Extra points for the puffy padded leather, which is just so much fun.”

Behind the brand: JW Anderson is Northern Irish designer Jonathan Anderson’s namesake fashion brand. He’s also the current creative director at Loewe; think of him as your favorite designer’s favorite designer.

Known for: Experimenting with texture and detail—think mega chain links, crystals, raffia, terry cloth, and vibrant leathers that come in a variety of styles, from shoulder bags to top handles to convertible cross-bodies.

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“I’ve always gravitated toward diaper bags that look more like a true handbag than a vessel for all my kids’…you-know-what,” says Brigitt Earley, a Glamour contributor and a mom of four. “This one fits the bill and has that same signature, easy-care nylon material we know and love from Kate Spade.”

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California-based brand Clare V. is a favorite among fashion-minded moms; scan a New York playground or a Los Angeles daycare pickup line and you’ll notice well-to-do women carrying the brand’s playful accessories. “I love the bold patterns that bring such a pop to any outfit. The strap options are exciting and allow you to change the look without buying a new bag, making it well worth the price, IMHO,” says Gabby Cuzzola, a New Jersey-based real estate agent. “I have two little kids under 4, so the crossbody style especially works great for my on-the-go lifestyle, and it’s just big enough to hold all the mom necessities.”

Behind the brand: You’d be forgiven for thinking Clare V. is from Europe, considering all the Francophile iconography; the label aims to combine the laidback energy of Los Angeles with the relaxed polish of Paris.

Known for: Slogan tees and sweatshirts are Clare V.’s bread and butter, and its accessories are just as fun.

Shopper totes are great for schlepping, whether you’re off to work or running errands. Loewe’s sculptural Puzzle Fold tote is the chicest means to that end. “It’s gorgeous and just the right size for a commuting bag—it fits a laptop and your basic essentials without feeling cramped,” says Rachel Fletcher, a senior commerce editor at Architectural Digest. “I will say it’s pretty delicate considering the price tag, and blemishes show pretty easily on the leather because it isn’t pebbled or grainy—after putting it in my bike basket once, it got a bit scratched up. But I’m also not someone who is accustomed to carrying a designer bag, so take that with a grain of salt.”

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“A.P.C. is one of my go-tos for contemporary leather handbags at affordable price points,” says Kristina Rutkowski, a freelance fashion editor and writer. “Anytime I invest in one of its bags, I never have buyer’s remorse. The clean and classic shapes never go out of style, and the quality leather and hardware are made to last. I have been wearing this cross-body for years, and it only gets better with time. I often wear it with my daily uniform of choice: a T-shirt, blazer, jeans, and Chelsea boots.”

Behind the brand: The Parisian label was founded in 1987 by Jean Touitou, with his wife, Judith, now the artistic director of the brand.

Known for: Classic quality wardrobe staples with a French sensibility. Handbags embrace timeless silhouettes in leather.

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“Toteme can do no wrong in my book. I splurge on its year-round wardrobe staples like the anorak jacket and perfectly cut tanks,” Glamour’s Lee says. “I don’t own a classic, goes-with-everything handbag in black or tan, and I keep returning to the smooth leather T-Lock Shoulder Bag. It’s perfectly balanced in two ways: spacious enough for daily use without being too overwhelmingly large, and structured but with a tiny bit of slouch that makes it less proper. Plus, it comes with the all-important detachable shoulder strap!”

Behind the brand: Influencer-turned-designer Elin Kling cofounded the Stockholm-based label in 2014 with her husband.

Known for: Its minimalist Scandinavian design aesthetic that is designed to transcend seasonal trends. Handbags were launched in 2022 and got the fashion crowd quickly on board.

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“Princess Diana is my eternal style icon, so how could I not purchase one of her most favorite handbags?” says Glamour senior beauty editor Ariana Yaptangco. “The style was so beloved by the former Princess of Wales that Gucci decided to name it after her when they reimagined the design in 2021, almost 30 years after the original was spotted on her arm. The style is timeless and versatile, characteristics that must be credited to Princess Diana, who schlepped it to the gym and elegantly toted it at formal events all the same.”

Again, you can only buy Chanel on the resale market if you’re shopping online. (By default, that makes Chanel the best handbag to buy when you’re in Paris or at any of its other retail locations.) This authenticated pick has all of the house’s touchstones: quilted leather, a woven strap, and a gleaming gold monogram. In other words, it’s the exact right piece to launch your budding Chanel collection.

Behind the brand: Gabrielle Chanel, better known as Coco, opened the first Chanel boutique in 1910 as a millinery; in 1915, the house expanded into haute couture; perfume launched in 1921. Since then, the house has been helmed by iconic designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Virginie Viard.

Known for: Tweed, quilted leather, and very nice perfume. You already know the brand’s iconic monogram, which adorns all of its coveted bags.

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“I lived through the original Prada nylon mania of the late ’90s and early 2000s, but there was no way my parents were ever spending that amount of money on a bag for their young daughter,” Glamour’s Samotin says. “I’ve always coveted the backpack specifically, mostly for its perfectly slouchy construction, discreet logo plate, and chunky pockets. After months of stalking resale sites, I recently acquired the designer bag of my teenage dreams on Poshmark for a quarter of the original retail price, and probably an eighth of what the reissued version, available now, costs. I love that it’s simultaneously understated though so obviously classic Prada, and I use it almost daily. For work, it holds my thin laptop perfectly and for weekends it holds my toddler’s snacks (and mine). A true icon!”

Behind the brand: The legacy Italian brand has been around since 1913, and Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons are Prada’s current creative directors.

Known for: The brand has revived a handful of aughts-era bags in its Re-Edition collection in recent years—and made them more sustainable—all of which are cool-girl staples.

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“Saint Laurent makes classic investment accessories that look good and age even better,” says Rae Ann Herman, style market director at Oprah Daily. “I love anything with a ’70s vibe, and I always love chocolate suede, so I’ve been wanting this hobo bag. It comes in a large size, but this smaller one is also roomy enough for my essentials and fits over my shoulder. I imagine wearing it with white jeans and a chunky camel turtleneck.”

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Seemingly every cool girl in New York is carrying this Acne Studios bag right now. “Trendy touches like bows, crinkled leather, and exaggerated pockets catapulted it to mainstream fame, but it’s genuinely functional,” says Glamour commerce editor Jake Henry Smith. “I’ve been dreaming of buying one because it seems like a perfect all-purpose bag; it’s roomy enough for everything I carry when I go out or stroll around the city, but it’s anything but utilitarian.”

Behind the brand: This edgy Stockholm-based brand, which puts out men’s and women’s collections, has been an industry favorite since 1996. (“Acne” is actually an acronym for “Ambition to Create Novel Expressions.”)

Known for: Its popular clothing line. Other bags have put the brand on the accessories map, but this handbag is its most notable release in years—a genuine It bag.

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Since 2016, Marge Sherwood has been putting out effortlessly cool handbags—and this shoulder bag might just be its most iconic. “It’s compact and easy to carry, but also large enough to fit essentials like my wallet, sunglasses, keys, lippy, and hand sanitizer,” says Hannah Malach, a senior news writer at WWD, who loves that the long strap doesn’t slip off of her shoulder. “It’s the perfect staple handbag. It goes with many different outfits and styles, and at a reasonable price.”

Behind the brand: Named after Gwyneth Paltrow’s character in The Talented Mr. Ripley, the Korean brand takes its influence from ’90s minimalism.

Known for: Architectural bags with exaggerated handle drops; its hobo bags are modern classics among fashion-minded city-dwellers.

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Is it even summer without a raffia bag in tow? “As soon as temperatures start to rise, I reach for my Loewe basket,” says Elizabeth Toal, a freelance fashion editor and stylist. “It is the perfect bag; It goes from day to night, week to weekend! It’s large enough to hold my everyday essentials, plus sunscreen and a book for a trip to the beach. Unlike most straw totes, the straps are adjustable allowing it to sling over my shoulder or nestle in the crook of my arm.”

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