5 Must-Have Handbags for Your Luxury Collection
Owning a luxury handbag can be a reflection of personal style and an appreciation for high-end craftsmanship.
With the many options available on the market, it can be difficult to decide in which ones you should invest. Luxury bags come with a sizable price tag and it only makes sense to be thoughtful about which bags you choose to add to your collection.
In this article, I will guide you through a curated selection of five must-have bag types whether you are just starting out or updating your luxury collection. My top choices include:
Hobo Bag
Tote
Top Handle or Satchel
Crossbody
Mini Bag
In addition to explaining why each bag type has been selected, I will offer a few of my top choices from iconic fashion houses. This list includes a few classic, timeless designs that will likely never go out of style and contemporary options more reflective of modern trends.
The Hobo Bag
The hobo style bag is a crescent shaped, slouchy bag designed to be worn over the shoulder. Hobo bags are typically large, but can also be found in small to medium sizes.
To give the hobo its shape, this style is often made from a soft, flexible material giving it the popular slouch or slump when set down. But, the relaxed look is also a potential downside. If you’re carrying a large, hobo style bag it’s a good idea to use a bag organizer to help maintain its shape no matter how full and to keep items intact.
The Louis Vuitton Graceful is one of my favorite hobo style bags. Made from coated canvas and trimmed in natural cowhide leather, it is large and roomy but still lightweight. The handle is also wide and flat making it comfortable for shoulder carry. As a high-end bag, it is also reasonably priced. In addition to the iconic Monogram, you can also find the Graceful in the House’s other popular patterns—Damier Ebene and Damier Azur.
Here are a few others you might consider:
Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag
Louis Vuitton Slouchy (PM or MM)
Rebecca Minkoff Megan Hobo
There’s no need to worry about the hobo losing its popularity so you can expect staying power with this design. The functionality of the hobo is unbeatable making it a sensible purchase in any brand and for anyone looking to invest in a timeless piece.
The Tote Bag
For versatility and convenience you can never go wrong with the tote bag. A good tote will offer ample space for miscellaneous items and can be a great addition to your collection. Your luxury tote can be used as a work bag and easily transition to the weekend for shopping or travel.
Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull stands out among classic tote bags. The Neverfull offers a spacious interior, open-top design allowing for easy access, and the versatility to go from work to weekend.
Because the Neverfull holds its value and often appreciates over time, it is a smart investment piece to add to any luxury handbag collection. But, the appeal of this tote has led to saturation in the market and may be a less desirable choice if you’re interested in collection pieces that are a bit more unique.
Whether you choose a classic hobo, versatile tote, an elegant top handle, the convenience of a crossbody, or a chic mini bag, each of these styles offers unique benefits and will elevate any outfit.
Remaining with the LV brand, the OntheGo is a great option if you’re willing to splurge on price. Not only does it come in a variety of patterns including leather and special collections, it offers the same open-top design and spacious interior as the Neverfull but in a more structured tote.
Gucci’s Ophidia Tote is another lightweight, canvas option. This medium sized bag comes in a timeless shape and is trimmed with textured leather. You’ll also enjoy the microfiber lining and recognizable Double G hardware. The strap length provides the option to be carried both as a top handle and a shoulder bag further enhancing the flexibility and practicality of this bag.
The Top Handle Bag or Satchel
Similar to the tote is the top handle bag or satchel. Both are made for carrying everyday essentials including everything from books to tablets and have two top handles. Although the handles are typically designed to be carried on the crook of the arm, some will have longer handles for shoulder carry.
The Louis Vuitton Speedy takes the top spot among iconic luxury top handle bags. Available in various sizes and patterns, this bag can be a great entry level addition to your luxury bag collection. Most popular in canvas, the Speedy’s construction makes it ideal for daily wear. And for travel, it can easily be flattened to fit into your luggage or suitcase. If you’d prefer a more structured top handle bag, look to the LV Alma as a great Speedy alternative.
The popularity and price point of the Speedy makes it vulnerable to counterfeit, and like the Neverfull, you can expect to see it frequently when out and about. Here are a few top handles from other brands if you’d prefer something a bit more rare:
Burberry Medium Check Bowling Bag
Saint Laurent Duffle Sac
Coach Empire Carryall Bag (35 or 40)
With the top handle or satchel, you’ll enjoy the ability to carry the necessities without feeling overwhelmed by the size of your bag. To maximize versatility, look for a satchel bag with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap.
The Crossbody
When you’re on the move, a crossbody bag should be your go-to accessory. Functional and stylish, this bag gets its name simply from the way it is worn. Typically smaller in size, crossbody bags are designed to carry the essentials allowing you to have everything within close reach. Because crossbody bags are usually adjustable, you can find a comfortable fit by customizing the bag for your individual body type.
Here are a few of my personal favorites:
Saint Laurent Lou Camera Bag - A popular and functional crossbody, the Lou Camera Bag is both spacious and perfectly compact. With its leather strap and gold hardware, it is versatile enough to be worn when running quick errands or for an evening out.
Gucci Marmont Small Shoulder Bag - This bag is a part of Gucci’s iconic Marmont line of soft matelassé leather bags. The bag’s chevron design and adjustable shoulder strap with chain detail offers a more elegant alternative to the typical crossbody. If you want even more sophistication and detail, consider a splurge on Gucci’s signature GG Marmont Small Shoulder Bag. The convertible strap maximizes the handbag’s versatility allowing you to wear it as a shoulder bag or crossbody.
Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis - Since its introduction in Monogram canvas, the Pochette Metis has continued as one of the House’s most popular styles. The S-lock closure with a polished gold-tone finish provides stylish detail. You’ll also enjoy both a top handle and a long detachable strap for crossbody wear. With a satchel silhouette, this handbag is both versatile and surprisingly spacious.
The Mini Bag
Like the crossbody, the mini bag has grown in popularity over recent years. These bags are ideal for those who value convenience and efficiency. They can usually be worn crossbody, as a shoulder bag, or as a clutch. Mini or micro bags are also suitable for both casual wear and formal events. Here are few strong considerations:
Saint Laurent LouLou Mini - A smaller version of the popular LouLou, this mini bag is lightweight and comes with a removable leather pouch. It also features a chain and leather strap.
Louis Vuitton Wallet on Chain Ivy - This is not the only WOC in the LV lineup, but I think this one is just the right size for necessities—even your cell phone. You’ll find the Ivy available in multiple patterns and with both a gold chain and a removable leather strap.
Tory Burch Mini Miller - This bag comes in at a much lower price point and comes in a variety of materials including leather, denim, and suede. From one of the brand’s iconic collections, it can be worn with or without the removable crossbody strap.
Designer bags often come with a substantial price tag. You should expect to pay a bit less for a high-end mini or micro bag, but that is not always the case. When considering this bag type, consider your lifestyle and choose a budget-friendly option that is at least large enough to carry your essentials.
Finding the perfect luxury bags to add to your collection can be challenging. But, you should also look at it as an exciting opportunity to express your personal style while making an investment in a timeless piece. Whether you choose a classic hobo, versatile tote, an elegant top handle, the convenience of a crossbody, or a chic mini bag, each of these styles offers unique benefits and will elevate any outfit.
Consider your lifestyle, needs, and budget when making your selection. And most importantly, choose a bag that gives you that little boost of confidence that only luxury can!