You're probably sick of hearing about inflation. I know I am, but it's a very real thing. And fashion—especially luxury fashion—hasn't been spared. First things first, designer handbags are obviously hardly a necessity, and inflation is a much bigger problem when it comes to things like rising food, gas, and lodging prices. But if you are in the market for a designer bag, the significantly higher prices compared to last year can be a tough pill to swallow. I certainly don't love paying more for something I could have gotten for a few hundred dollars less a year ago, but it is what it is, unfortunately.
I can't change the price of designer handbags, but what I can do is offer advice on which ones are still worth the money if you're in the market for a bag. Whenever I invest in a designer bag, I'm sure to choose one that I'm positive I'll wear for years and that won't look dated in a few seasons. All of these fit that criteria and are just plain chic and cool. Keep scrolling to shop my investment-worthy bag recommendations.
I have this in black and can confirm that it's the perfect size for both day and night. It's also one of my favorites to travel with, as it's so versatile and chic.
You know a bag is great when a brand releases it in a plethora of colors.
This structured Jacquemus bag works with outfits both casual and dressy, which explains why it's been an It bag for years now.
Gucci's signature logo and its signature Horsebit design make for a perfect match.
This is my favorite bag to carry for fancy occasions. It makes any outfit look significantly cooler.
You can't go wrong with any of the Saint Laurent logo bags, but I love that this one has a chain strap and a subtle logo.
My favorite thing about this chic Givenchy bag is that you can carry it via the leather strap or the chain strap. Additionally, the silver hardware sets it apart in a sea of gold-hardware bags.
This simple and sleek Burberry bag is sure to be a favorite of anyone with a classic or minimalist aesthetic.
Yes, it's trendy, but the style was good enough for Balenciaga to bring it back, and it's not as trendy as its sister bag—the Cagole.
I'm not sure that a better everyday bag exists.
This baby The Row bag is as simple and chic as it gets.
It really doesn't get more timeless than this.
It's painful to admit but when I got this bag in December, it was $150 cheaper. That said, it's a beautiful, subtle logo bag and I still think it's worth it.
Loewe somehow managed to make its original Puzzle bag even more covetable.
Loewe makes the holy grail of designer straw bags.
The Prada Cleo bag has proven to be one of those rare bags that stays an It bag long after its release.
This lightweight shoulder bag is another favorite of mine, as it fits a surprising number of items, and it's an excellent option for travel.
Speaking of Prada nylon, sometimes bags come out that are so special, they're instantly timeless.
This is a newer Bottega bag style, but I'm already sure it's going to be a cult favorite.
This pretty Saint Laurent bag is a beautiful choice you'll wear for years. In particular, I'd wear it for nights out and special occasions as its size, structure, and chain strap make it feel a bit fancy.
As far as great designer bags go, the price of this one isn't terrible.
Pretty much any Chanel bag is a good investment, but this new-season one is particularly special.
The new size of Bottega Veneta's most popular clutch is just right—not too big and not too small.
Louis Vuitton's monogram tote bag is a multi-purpose forever bag that will never look dated.
Next up, shop the low-key vacation bag fashion people are wearing all the time now.
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These 31 Classic Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds Are the Key to a Rich-Looking Summer WardrobeImagine the chic outfits.
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If a French Woman Shopped the Amazon Prime Day Sale, She'd Instantly Add These 31 Chic Picks to CartEffortless and affordable? Yes, please.
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Forget the Margaux—*This* The Row Bag Will Be Carried by Fashion People With Cool Taste in 2025And it won't cost you $5000.
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I'm Bored With My Closet—These 33 Chic Nordstrom Pieces Have the Power to Turn Things AroundEffortless and expensive looking is the vibe.
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Believe Me—You'll Still Want These 36 Items in 2026 (and '27 and '28)Timeless with a capital T.
