The 18 Classic Designer Bags of Our Generation

We're of the opinion that everything we buy should be viewed as an investment. Be it a Topshop dress, a pair of bejeweled shoes, vintage partywear, or a high-ticket camel coat, every item in our wardrobes is loved just the same. However, there's no denying that we have a very special place in our hearts for classic designer handbags.

A designer bag should truly last a lifetime—which is why it pays to seek out and save up for styles from the industry's most trusted fashion brands. From well-established pieces like Chanel and Dior to relatively new styles from brands such as Loewe, there are so many different options to choose from that the process can be made all the more daunting.

So, to help you decide which bag is the right investment for you, we've done the hard work and pooled the world's classic designer handbag brands together in one place, along with the bags that helped cement their respective timeless statuses. Keep scrolling for inspiration, and start putting those pennies away pronto.

1. Chanel Classic Flap

CHANEL CLASSIC FLAP

2. Fendi Baguette

3. Loewe Puzzle 

4. Hermès Kelly

5. Saint Laurent Monogram

6. Louis Vuittom Neverfull

7. Chloé Drew

8. Kate Spade Sam

9. Miu Miu Matelassé

10. Michael Michael Kors Jet Set

11. Gucci Soho

12. Coach Chelsea Hobo

13. Mulberry Bayswater

14. Celine Trio

15. J.W. Anderson Pierce

16. Balenciaga Motorcycle

17. Dior Lady Dior

18. Prada Galleria

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK. Up next, shop Gigi Hadid's $40 jeans.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over twelve years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories, and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, works closely with influencer talent on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media. Previously, Maxine appeared on TV in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o. 


Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship, she was offered a position on the Look magazine fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. She went on to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others. Maxine works remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh.