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A designer handbag is one of the few fashion purchases that can genuinely pay for itself, through years of daily use. The difference between a bag you carry for a decade and one that sits in a dust bag comes down to a few decisions you can make before you buy.
Start with the shape
The bags that last are the ones whose shape has already lasted. Four silhouettes keep their place year after year:
- The structured top-handle. Works at the office, at dinner and at a wedding. The most versatile shape there is.
- The shoulder bag with a flap. Sits close under the arm, goes with everything, and moves easily from day to evening.
- The tote. The everyday workhorse. Look for one that holds its shape when it is half empty.
- The crossbody. Hands-free and practical, and the easiest to wear with casual clothes.
Leather and hardware
Full-grain leathers, such as pebbled calfskin, age well and hide scratches; smooth box leathers look sharper but show every mark. Lambskin is beautiful and delicate, better for an occasional bag than a daily one. Check the hardware too: it should feel heavy, close cleanly and sit flush.
Size and color
Buy for the life you have, not the photograph. A bag that is too small for your phone, keys and wallet will not get used. For a first investment bag, black, tan, taupe or a deep brown will go with the most. This season's burgundy and cherry red are the exceptions worth considering if you already own a neutral.
What this season's trends mean for a long-term buy
The runways leaned into croc-embossed leathers, suede, East-West shapes, oversized flaps, slouchy totes and the return of the clutch. Croc-embossed leather and a classic flap are the safest of these to buy for the long term. Very oversized and very embellished pieces are more fun, but tend to date faster.
Questions to ask before you buy
- Will I carry it at least three days a week, or for one specific occasion I attend often?
- Does it go with the coats and shoes I already own?
- Is the strap or handle comfortable when the bag is full?
- Can the leather and hardware be repaired if something wears?
If the answer to all four is yes, it is worth the money.
Our handbag boards on Pinterest collect the shapes in this guide, season by season.