It’s no secret that the prices of handbags have become astronomical. When you think you’ve seen it all, another price increase hits, and record-breaking price tags cause nearly heart-attack-inducing sticker shock.
Gone are the days of our trusty handbag roundups of options under $1,200 or even $1,000. These days, even entry-level designer bags near the $2K mark.
With prices soaring across the board and trends changing by the minute, thanks to the ever-evolving trend cycle, it can be hard to sort out what’s worth it and what’s not. Have no fear, though; we’re here to help!
The Row Margaux Bag
Quiet luxury favorite The Row was not-so-quietly launched in 2006, and in its nearly 2 decades in business, it has become known for its high-quality basics and essentials that are meant to last.
The Margaux has become a staple of the luxury label, not to mention a favorite of stars like Jennifer Lawrence, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jennifer Garner, and more.
With its classic shape and effortless slouch, the Margaux is one of those bags that will never go out of style, and its leather is the type that will age beautifully. Meant to be worn for years to come, the Margaux is giving serious Birkin vibes at a price that isn’t in the five-figure mark.
Available in four sizes (current options are 10, 12, 15, and 17), not to mention suede and leather versions in an array of colors, there’s a Maragaux to suit everyone.
Shop the Margaux via Net-a-Porter.
Bottega Veneta Jodie Bag
The Bottega Veneta Jodie is one of BV’s most-wanted bags, and rightfully so. It’s a street-style staple that is most definitely worth the splurge. First introduced in January of 2020, the Jodie’s popularity shows no signs of slowing down.
New colors and fabrications are introduced each season, from leather and suede to denim and shearling. Plus, with micro, mini, teen, small, and medium, you can find the size that is just right for you.
Bottega Veneta’s quality is unmatched, and its Intrecciato leather is one of the world’s most classic handbag techniques. The Jodie is not only a bag you’ll get endless wear out of, but it also comes with a unique guarantee thanks to the brand’s Certificate of Craft warranty.
Shop the Jodie via Bottega Veneta.
Dior Lady Dior Bag
The Lady Dior bag is one of handbag history’s most classic bags, celebrating its 30th birthday this year. Named after Lady Diana, Princess of Wales, the Lady Dior has been reinvented season after season, boasting a versatility that few other bags possess.
A design rooted in simplicity, its shape is elevated thanks to Dior’s instantly recognizable Cannage leather quilting. With its unique ability to be worn by all ages, the Lady Dior is an investment bag that will be used for years.
With its ever-present place in the Dior lineup, it will be loved for decades and is one of those rare bags that can be passed down to future generations.
Savette Symmetry Pochette
Launched in 2020 by handbag veteran Amy Zurek, we once listed Savette as a brand to watch. In the four years since, the luxury indie label has quickly become a favorite of editors, style stars, and celebs alike. It is still very much an, if you know, you know, brand, but it is definitely worth the investment.
The Symmetry Pochette was one of the brand’s original silhouettes, boasting an elegant shape and sleek profile; it offers femininity with a bit of edge. The bag’s closure feels like an art piece, and this is a bag that will make a statement while still offering a timeless appeal.
Shop the Savette Symmetry Pochette via Net-a-Porter.
Hermès Picotin
It’s no secret that if you’re looking to splurge on a bag that can offer you a return in the future, Hermès is the way to go. Aside from the obvious Birkins and Kellys of the crowd, there are a variety of other silhouettes that are not only more affordable options but don’t scream Hermès.
The Picotin is one of those bags. Easy to wear thanks to its slouchy bucket bag shape, it offers a casual appeal that’s more under-the-radar than its sisters. Launched in 2002, the bag is an ode to Hermès’ equestrian roots, modeled after horse feed bags.
Offering functionality in a lightweight body, the Picotin is the perfect daily hauler you’ll reach for time and time again. The most common sizes produced are 18cm, 22cm, and 26cm, and starting at $3,025, it makes for the perfect Hermès starter bag.
Shop the Hermès Picotin via Fashionphile.
All nice bags. All sort of interesting—for how much they riff on archival designs—which. makes them less interesting overall. I think the most interesting part of this article is that the bag prices are increasing. It’s not because of better design or R&D, certainly.
But beyond inflation/rising materials costs/etc., one hypothesis for why bag prices are increasing is that the pre-loved market has taken over the “middle” price range and category. This forces brands to price higher to maintain their premium brand, sure— but I think it’s also a necessity if they even want to keep selling anything.
There was a time when “new” also meant “special,” but now there are so many collabs, special editions, etc., that it’s the classics (nostalgics!) that tend to stand out!
I’m curious to see if mass consumers will pay a premium for “new”/limited edition over time. As more middle-class consumers of luxury become even better educated in products and product histories, coupled with increasing environmental awareness and supply chain awareness, I think more people will be willing to buy classics—because the market is just too saturated with “new,” and the cycle on “what’s in” and “what’s out” is moving so quickly that they have become simultaneous. There’s no such thing as “what’s out” anymore as FOMO makes us consider that anything out could be the next big “in.” In the past we had to wait 20 years for this cycle to hit us. Now we barely have to wait for anything.
Also, $3,000+ for a canvas bag?? The world continues to go insane 🙂
And that’s the “starter” price. Yikes!
Did these influencers pay to be featured here? Just wondering.
Nope! We wanted to showcase the bags worn/styled.
Influencers don’t pay for anything.
All these “insta-models” are turning me off some bags. So overdone like the VCA, Cartier bracelet stacks. Looking forward to the end of this era.
Weirdly, I’ve been H-shopping backwards. After having acquired two pricey B30s/two K28s over time, I bought a pre-owned “starter” Picotin 18 and a new Pico 22 last year and they’ve become my go-to bags. Much easier than to use than some of the fussier styles.
Love to hear that! The Picotin has become high on my want list. I do love the leather versions, but the cargo Picotin certainly speaks to my style.
The cargo would be a great spring/summer bag, though I’d worry about a light color. H canvas is pretty durable, in my experience; go for it!
I wish I’d been able to edit my comments bc I should have mentioned several other “under the radar” H bags I love, too: Garden Party 30, which is more versatile than I’d thought, Trim Duo, Kelly Dépêches, and Verrou 23, all of which stay in rotation.
I like the Savette. Very much my speed. The rest I can live ithout.
The more I see the Picotin, the more I want one. An 18 or 22 in a bright color sounds ideal.