The Best Designer Handbags for 2024 – Expert Vetted

When it comes to wardrobe investments, there is nothing quite like a timeless designer handbag. For many, they are a statement of style, a symbol of status, and an investment. As we enter 2024, the landscape of designer handbags is as diverse and dynamic as ever, with many brands, styles, and trends vying for attention. From timeless classics to bold new designs, the choices are endless. But which ones truly stand out? Which ones are worth your investment?

In this article, we explore the top picks for the best designer handbags, according to fashion experts, celebrities and cult favourites, exploring each brand and model's unique features, craftsmanship, and allure. Whether you're a seasoned collector or looking to buy your first designer bag, this list has been vetted to include only the must-have handbags on the market.

Hermes, Birkin 35 Bag

The Hermès Birkin 35 is a timeless piece that effortlessly merges quiet luxury with the trend of larger bags. This iconic handbag, first introduced in 1984, has been a staple in the fashion industry and continues to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Birkin 35 is known for its practical size, logo-free design, and enduring appeal.

It has been released in several limited editions, including the Birkin 35 FrayFray and the Sunrise and Sunset Birkin 35, both of which feature unique details and high-quality materials such as Twill H cotton canvas and Swift leather. Despite the rise in popularity of smaller bags, the Birkin 35 remains a classic choice for those seeking a blend of style and functionality.

Retail price: $13,500, but it can resell for $20,000 or more, with some pieces selling for over $74,000 at auction.

Lawful London, Rosa Bag

The Rosa tote bag from Lawful London is a top contender for the best in handbags list. This generously sized tote is not only stylish but also practical, making it an ideal choice for daily use. It features a dedicated zipped compartment to safely store a 13” laptop, along with multiple pockets for organized storage of essentials like a water bottle, mobile phone, charger, and bank or travel cards.

The bag's design is minimal yet sophisticated, offering versatility with its soft top handles and a detachable adjustable shoulder strap. Made from vegan leather, the Rosa tote is easy to maintain and clean. It also comes with a protective dust bag for proper storage. The bag is available in two colors - black and tan. With its thoughtful details and roomy silhouette, the Rosa tote is destined to become your go-to carryall.

Retail Price: $427.00

Dior, Medium Lady Dior Bag

The Medium Lady Dior Bag in Black Cannage Lambskin is a standout piece that deserves a spot on the best handbags list. This bag is a testament to Dior's commitment to elegance and beauty, embodying the brand's vision with its sleek and refined design.

Crafted from black lambskin, it features the instantly recognizable Cannage stitching that creates a quilted texture, adding a touch of sophistication. The bag is adorned with pale gold-finish metal D.I.O.R. charms, enhancing its elegant allure.

Its thin, removable leather shoulder strap also offers versatility, allowing it to be carried by hand or worn crossbody. Its size suits essentials like a wallet, phone, card holder, and sunglasses. This timeless creation, first seen on the arm of Lady Diana, has since had an extraordinary destiny, making it not just a bag, but a symbol and a legend.

Retail Price: $8,600.00

Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag

The Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag is a standout piece in luxury handbags. This bag, introduced following the success of the Tabby Shoulder bags, adds a puffy silhouette to the classic design. It's crafted from ultra-soft leather and features signature wrapped 'C' hardware.

The bag also offers versatility with its two detachable straps, allowing it to be carried by hand, styled as a short shoulder bag, or worn crossbody. The Pillow Tabby comes in protective packaging, including tissue paper, padding, and a dust bag for storage.

Retail Price: $495.00

Hermes Kelly 32 Sellier Bag

The Hermes Box Calf Kelly 32 Handbag is an epitome of timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. Made from the finest box calf leather, known for its smooth texture and sophisticated sheen, this handbag is a symbol of fashion prestige. Accompanied by a detachable shoulder strap, this Kelly bag offers multiple carrying options, making it a splendid choice for both day-to-night transitions and momentous occasions.

Retail Price: $11,375

Portland Leather, Nora Shoulder Bag

The Nora Shoulder Bag is a standout product in the handbag category, earning rave reviews for its unique design and exceptional quality. This crescent-shaped shoulder bag is comfortable to wear and exudes an undeniable style described as "really attractive" by the head designer.

The bag's playful design and elegant details make it a versatile accessory that complements casual and formal outfits. The adjustable shoulder strap with Sam Browne closure ensures a perfect fit for all seasons, whether you're wearing a tank top or a puffy jacket.

The bag is available in various colors including honey, pebbled black, cognac, grizzly, and nutmeg, allowing customers to choose according to their preference. Crafted from U.S.-sourced full-grain leather, the Nora Shoulder Bag showcases unique textures and character that develop a beautiful patina over time.

The bag's durability is further enhanced by the natural oils in the leather that rise to the surface, smoothing any scuffs or scratches that may have accumulated. Despite its compact size, the bag can hold a surprising amount of personal items, making it a practical choice for those who prefer smaller bags. The bag's moon shape allows it to fit a lot of stuff, making it a perfect companion for weekend outings or daily use.

Retail price: $195.00

Chanel Lambskin Double Flap Bag

The Chanel Lambskin Double Flap Bag is a timeless classic in the luxury handbag market. This bag, part of Chanel's Classic Flap line, is known for its high-quality lambskin leather and iconic turn-lock fastening.

The double flap design adds an extra layer of privacy and functionality, separating the interior of the handbag from the main exterior flap. This bag is a fashion statement and an investment piece, as Chanel regularly increases its prices.

Retail Price: $10,200.00

Gucci Jackie Shoulder Bag

The Gucci Jackie Shoulder Bag is a timeless piece that has been a staple in the fashion community for decades. This classic handbag, named after the iconic Jackie Kennedy, is renowned for its versatility and enduring appeal. Crafted from durable leather, the bag features a longer, removable shoulder strap that can transform it from a ladylike tote to a practical crossbody bag.

The bag's design has remained essentially unchanged since its inception in 1961. However, a notable modification was made in 1999 by then creative director Tom Ford, who replaced the bag's signature piston lock with a more futuristic, geometric-shaped buckle. This bag is a fashion statement and an investment, as it is expected to last for many decades.

Retail Price: $2,950

The Row Margaux leather handbag

The Row's Margaux leather handbag is a paragon of luxury and functionality, meticulously crafted to serve as a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Conceived by the fashion-forward minds of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, this handbag is a testament to their devotion to quality and understated elegance.

Constructed from matte grained calfskin leather, the Margaux bag exudes sophistication with its softly structured top-handle design. The belted gusseted side panels and interior toggle closure add to its aesthetic appeal and enhance its functionality, ensuring your belongings are secure and organized within its capacious interior.

Retail Price: $3,744 pre-owned,$5,800 regular price

Saint Laurent Loulou Small Shoulder Bag

First introduced in 2017 as part of the Fall/Winter collection, the bag pays homage to Loulou de la Falaise, a muse and close friend of Yves Saint Laurent. Crafted in Italy, this exquisite piece features a quilted leather design with signature chevron stitching and is adorned with the iconic 'YSL' motif. The bag's dimensions are practical for everyday use, offering an organized interior that can comfortably fit essentials like a phone, wallet, and keys, along with a central zipped pocket for smaller items.

Retail Price: $1,630 on sale, $1,787 regular price

R.Riveter, The Hopper Leather Bag 

The Hopper Black Leather bag by R. Riveter is a standout product in the handbag market, offering a blend of luxury and versatility. This bag is designed to transition seamlessly from day to night, making it an ideal accessory for any occasion.

The Hopper is crafted with real vegetable-tanned leather, which ages beautifully over time, enhancing its appeal. Each bag takes a journey across the country before reaching your doorstep, with components crafted by independent military spouses.

The bag is named after Grace Hopper, a trailblazer in the field of computer science, reflecting the brand's commitment to celebrating strong and influential women. The company offers a flexible return and exchange policy, ensuring customer satisfaction.

Retail price: $198.00

Fendi Baguette Bag

The Fendi Baguette Bag is a true icon in the world of fashion accessories. Its rise to fame was cemented when it was featured on the popular TV series "Sex and the City," carried by the show's fashion-forward character, Carrie Bradshaw. The bag quickly became a must-have item, earning the status of an "It bag."

The Baguette Bag is characterized by its crescent shape, slouchy posture, long strap, and zip top closure. It is made of high-quality black soft nappa leather with a three-dimensional texture FF motif and is decorated with an FF clasp. The bag is not only stylish but also functional, suitable for everyday use and capable of carrying everything from laptops to textbooks.

Retail price: $3,590.00

Prada Logo-Plaque Shoulder Bag

The Prada Logo-plaque shoulder bag features a distinctive metal logo plaque set against finely textured leather, presenting both prestige and subtle luxury. Its compact yet spacious design ensures you can carry your essentials with ease, while the adjustable shoulder strap offers customized comfort and versatility. E

Retail Price: $2,760

Alexander McQueen The Jewelled Mini Tote Bag

The bag's standout feature is its Swarovski-encrusted knuckleduster handle, which not only serves as a functional grip but also adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. In addition to the denim version, the Jewelled Hobo bag showcases a unique silhouette inspired by the faceted stone that adorns the Knuckle, further emphasizing the brand's penchant for blending fashion with jewelry-like embellishments.

Retail Price: $1,289

JW Anderson Mini Twister Hobo Leather Bag

The JW Anderson Mini Twister Hobo Leather Bag is a chic and functional accessory that impresses with its quality, durability, and beauty. This mini tote bag features a single twisted top handle and main compartment, making it perfect for carrying essentials. The bag is made of calf leather and has a cotton lining, an embossed logo on the front, and concealed magnetic fastening.

Retail price: $850.00

The Bag Icon Harriet Tote Bag

The HARRIET is the perfect mix of sophisticated and boho. Made from supple pebbled leather, this handbag features a bamboo handles and is embellished with a metal and bamboo interlocking closure.

Retail price: $422

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Teen Jodie

Retail price: $1,140

Jacquemus Le Chiquito Noeud Tote Bag

Embrace the allure of minimalist design with the Jacquemus Le Chiquito Noeud Tote Bag, a piece that captures the essence of modern chic. This elegantly constructed tote features a playful knotted handle detail, adding a touch of whimsy to its structured silhouette.

Retail Price: $487.77

Moncler Delilah Hobo Shoulder Bag

The Moncler Delilah Hobo Shoulder Bag is features a water-repellent nylon lining and a down-filled nylon laqué handle for a comfortable grip. Its quilted design, crafted from iconic nylon laqué, showcases a sleek metallic finish complemented by contrasting leather trims, making it an unmistakable Moncler piece. The bag offers practicality with its zipper closure and internal pocket, ensuring your belongings are secure and organized.

Retail Price: $385.29

Latico Leathers Nash Tote/Crossbody

This tote/crossbody bag features an adjustable and detachable crossbody strap, along with handcrafted knot detail top handles, providing versatility in carrying options. Made from 100% full-grain leather, each bag is unique due to the natural variations in grain texture and shading, which are indicative of its high quality. Artisans in South America and India meticulously handcraft these bags, ensuring that each piece is not only stylish but also sustainable, as the leather is sourced responsibly as a byproduct of the meat and dairy industry.

Retail Price: 331.00

Kahmune Tote Bag 

The tote comes is meticulously handcrafted from 100% genuine Italian leather, offering a luxurious accessory that is both functional and stylish. Available in an array of 10 brown shades, the Juba tote celebrates the diverse skin tones of women around the globe, making it a unique and inclusive fashion statement.

Retail Price: $619

Salvatore Ferragamo Hug Logo Printed Tote Bag

The Salvatore Ferragamo Hug Logo Printed Tote Bag features a soft structure with natural-grain calfskin panels. This tote bag is not only spacious and chic but also boasts protective metal feet and a sleek embossed logo, available in bold colors as well as classic neutrals. Authentic Ferragamo bags, including this one, can be verified by their serial number and flawless logo, ensuring genuine luxury quality.

Retail Price: $1,496

The Bag Icon Sharon Claudia

This very special handbag was designed to honor the owner's late mother, SHARON CLAUDIA. Handmade in Italy, this classic tote bag exudes sophistication and features soft yet durable full grain pebbled leather and bold gold hardware.

Retail Price: $1,150

HOBO Pier Shoulder Bag

The HOBO Pier Shoulder Bag in Pebbled Leather, a bag designed for those on the move. Its sumptuous pebbled leather exterior not only exudes an air of casual elegance but also promises durability and a rich texture that ages beautifully with wear. The design includes a clever hidden magnet closure for secure storage, along with multiple pockets to keep your daily essentials organized and within reach. Whether worn as a shoulder bag or styled as a crossbody, this piece will become a cherished accessory for its perfect blend of function and fashion.

Retail Price: $298.00

Jacquemus Beige Le Papier 'Le Grand Bambino' Bag

Buffed leather top handle bag in beige. · Fixed carry handle · Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap · Logo hardware at face · Patch pocket at back face · Foldover flap · Patch pocket at interior · Twill lining · H5 x W9.25 x D2.75 in Part of the Le Papier collection. Supplier color: Ivory

Retail Price: $920

Gucci Jackie 1961 Small Shoulder Bag

This iconic accessory, recognized for its signature piston closure, strikes a perfect balance between timeless elegance and contemporary design. Crafted from sumptuous leather and adorned with the unmistakable Gucci logo, this petite yet practical bag boasts an adjustable strap that allows for versatile styling options. The Jackie 1961, exuding Gucci's luxurious craftsmanship, is a tribute to the stylish legacy that continues to charm fashion connoisseurs today.

Retail Price: $2,428

 

Loewe Womens Black Pebble Mini Leather Bucket bag

Loewe and leather, could there be a more melodic match? Since assuming creative control of the Spanish label in 2013, Jonathan Anderson has raised its design empire with curious creations like the Pebble bag. Cut from smooth leather; its bucket silhouette is topped with an open top and stamped at the handle with one of the label's signatures, the Anagram clasp.

Retail Price: $1,975

The Row 90's Baguette Black

The Row 90's Baguette Bag in black is a sophisticated accessory crafted from finely grained calfskin leather, featuring softly rounded edges and leather piping. The bag's design is a nod to the iconic '90s fashion, offering a blend of luxury and practicality with its 100% calfskin leather composition.

Retail Price: $990

 

Final Thoughts

Among the top picks for the best designer handbags of 2024, according to fashion experts, celebrities, and cult favourites, are the Hermes Birkin 35 Bag, Chanel Lambskin Double Flap Bag, Gucci Jackie Shoulder Bag, JW Anderson Mini Twister Hobo Leather Bag, R.Riveter's Hopper Black Leather bag, Nora Shoulder Bag, Fendi Baguette Bag, Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag, Lawful London's Rosa tote bag, Dior's Medium Lady Dior Bag, and Latico Leathers Nash Tote/Crossbody. Each bag has unique features, craftsmanship, and allure that make it stand out in the market. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and what new designs and styles will emerge in the fashion handbag industry. Regardless of the changes, one thing is certain: handbags will continue to be an essential accessory, a statement of style, and status symbol.