14 Editor-Approved Designer Bags So Good We Bought Them

As fashion editors at Who What Wear, we are often writing about the latest runway shows and product drops, always with an eye for what’s new and what’s next. But we’re also adding some of those items into our everyday wardrobes when they feel too special to pass up. There’s no exception when it comes to designer bags. Personally, great bags are one of this editor’s favorite things to invest in and collect because of their power to transform an outfit and stand the test of time.

So which designer bags are approved by Who What Wear’s very own editors? Ahead, our fashion editors are sharing the ones you’ll spot in their wardrobes or on their Instagram feeds. Go on to see which designer bags they stand behind, and see how they’re styling them. Then, shop each of them for yourself. 

Kat Collings, Editor in Chief

"I bought this in an 'I need to look cute at fashion week' panic, and I'm so glad I did. I've worn it countless times since, and it's one of those bags that people notice, especially if you're trying to impress someone in the fashion industry."

"There's a reason they keep remaking The Row's Ascot bag in different colorways and sizes. This golden-yellow color sold out quickly, but there are still so many pretty iterations."

"Another winner from The Row. I bought this one at a resale shop, and it's pretty worn at this point. It's from a pretty old collection, so you really have to keep your eyes peeled to find one. When it was listed on Barneys, it was called the Black Classic Flap Bag, if you happen to be as smitten with it as I am and need to get your hands on the exact style. Honestly, though, you can't go wrong with any bag from The Row. You'll wear them for the rest of your life."

"The Kenzo Pagodon bags were first introduced in 1998. I snagged mine from vintage site Lucia Zolea, but they pop up from time to time on resale sites. I have to say it's been my best purchase of 2018. I wear it constantly. It's low-key but design-savvy."

Nicole Eshaghpour, Market Editor

"I use my The Row Double-Circle bag so much because it's the perfect size for day or night. Plus, it's simple and classic, so I never get sick of it, and it goes with every outfit I own."

"I've had my Loewe Puzzle Bag for over three years now, and I still get happy every time I look at it. It's unique but at the same time low-key, so it doesn't feel flashy or trendy."

Anna LaPlaca, Assistant Editor

"My 95-year-old grandmother passed down this mint-condition Fendi Zucca to me, and it's quickly become my signature bag."

"I adore the glossy croc effect and miniature size of this bag. It's definitely a special piece in my closet that I reserve for dates and nights out."

Lauren Eggertsen, Editor

"My Shrimps bag is definitely funky and not like most other 'designer bags,' but it's one I will own forever. Thanks to the neutral color and sheer novelty of the pearls, I can attest to it being a bag I won't stop carrying any time soon."

Judith Jones, Market Editor

"Good things come in small packages, and this holds true for the Little Lady shoulder bag by Little Liffner. This ready-for-anything purse adds instant polish to my outfits and is versatile enough to take me from Pilates to a party."

Erin Fitzpatrick, Senior News Editor

"My one and only designer bag is this beauty by Bulgari. I love the Serpenti snakehead and striking blue color, and I treat it like my child!"

Kristen Nichols, Managing Editor

"I bought this Chanel bag when I lived in Paris, and to this day, it's one of the best investments I've made in my wardrobe. It's a timeless bag that not only goes with everything but also keeps appreciating each year I've owned it."

"Tory Burch released its Lee bag last year, and I instantly added it to my closet. It has since become my go-to that makes even a T-shirt and jeans feel instantly polished. This croc-effect version takes it to the next level."

"While I'm often adding just-released items to my wardrobe, I also love great vintage finds—including this Dior logo Saddle Bag. The throwback design adds just the right element of playfulness to any outfit."

Next, see the 13 fashion brands I wear on repeat.