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.
-
The Brutally Honest Skincare Advice You Needed to Know Yesterday, According to 2 Beauty Industry VetsThe Dieux founders share their hot takes and unfiltered product recs.
-
Sorry to My Classic Black Shoes, But This Printed Shoe Trend Is Defining Fall 2025Spotted on fashion people in Venice, NYC, and Copenhagen.
-
Old Navy Just Launched Its New Fall Handbag Collection—and It Looks RichSoft faux suedes and sophisticated silhouettes.
-
What to Buy for Fall If You Don't Want to Regret It Next Year (or the Year After)Investments only.
-
Abercrombie Sucked Me Back Into Its Orbit With These 25 Incredibly Chic Fall 2025 FindsSo, so good.
-
People With Impeccable Taste Swear By COS—21 Chic Sale Finds to Take Advantage of Right NowDid you say 25% off? Yes, please.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—27 Incredibly Chic Fall Finds That Will Get You More Bang for Your BuckStellar under-$150 finds right this way.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)Here's to effortless outfits.
-
By October, You'll Understand Why This Specific Bag Trend Is So Popular Among Fashion People Who "Get It"Andy Sachs gets it.
-
Fashion People Are Reaching For Little Beaded Bags Right Now—31 Chic Styles That Have My AttentionFrom Zara to Fendi.
