With the many affordable brands on the market, I don’t broach this subject lightly, but in the spirit of fall shopping, I’m going there. When there’s something that I can get at Zara or the like that’s just as lovely as the $1k designer version (i.e. a black blazer), I absolutely will order the affordable version. But the thing that I’m always supportive of splurging on is a designer bag. If you take good care of it, it’ll last forever, and we’ve reported numerous times that many investment bags hold their value over time.
Early fall happens to be my favorite time of year to shop for a new bag, but it’s worth pointing out that I tend to gravitate toward versatile bags that can be worn year-round. It certainly makes the cost-per-wear lower. When it comes to handbags, I’m all about quality over quantity, and I choose my bags carefully. One of the ways in which I go about choosing them these days is, of course, Instagram.
If you prefer to know what the best investment bags on the market are right now without scrolling through Instagram and online shopping for hours, you’ve come to the right place because I did it for you. Start contemplating your splurge-worthy bag purchase below.
Fendi reimagined its classic Croissant Bag and I must say that it’s even better than before. It’s a great day-to-night one if you hate switching your bag out.
Fashion people have been obsessed with this little Bottega bag for the bulk of 2021 and I can’t blame them—she’s perfect (and comes in fun colors).
If you asked me to name a perfect fall bag that’s timeless, versatile, and less than $2k, I’d name Saint Laurent’s new It bag. Hailey Bieber is already a fan.
Wandler has perfected the art of making sleek, professional bags that are also forward. They’re just as suitable for the weekend as they are for “9 to 5”.
Gucci’s Jackie Bag is a favorite of our Senior Market Editor Nicole’s, and I can see why. It’s the ideal size and shape and something tells me that she’ll hang on to this one for life.
By Far’s Amber bag is simple and logo-free, yet it’s instantly recognizable and is a favorite of celebs and influencers alike.
Earlier this year it was nearly impossible to get your hands on a Prada Cleo Bag, and it’s still in high demand. With its classic Prada logo and it’s throwback ’90s shape (that’s still so modern), it’s easy to see why.
Loewe’s new Cubi bag is incredibly lightweight and it folds flat, making it perfect for travel. It’s also a bit lower in price than many of its fellow It bags.
Gucci’s instantly recognizable Ophidia bags give me equestrian vibes, and I’m here for it. Based on how long this logo print has been a thing, I think it’s here to stay.
This one needs no explanation. Chanel bags are a major investment—there’s no doubt about that. But they also retain their value better than almost any brand out there.
Season after season, Jacquemus Le Chiquito Bags continue to be a favorite among fashion people, and Jacquemus keeps coming up with new iterations of the incredibly popular bag.
