Some designer handbags can become assets, maintaining value over time, adding luxury and sophistication to your wardrobe, and even becoming a future family heirloom. But with so many choices, how do you separate the fashion statements from true investments? Here’s your guide to spotting those elusive, investment-worthy bags, whether you’re shopping for your first designer piece or adding to a curated collection.

1. Brand Value: Look for Heritage and Consistency

Only some designer bags will increase in value. Investment-worthy bags often come from heritage brands with long-established histories, like Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. These brands have proven staying power and a loyal fanbase, and they limit stock in ways that create lasting demand.

• Hermès is famous for its waiting lists and ultra-exclusive Birkin and Kelly bags, making these pieces symbols of elite status.
• Chanel, known for its Classic Flap and Boy bags, has consistently raised its prices over the years, creating strong resale value for earlier versions.
• Louis Vuitton holds its value with iconic styles like the Speedy and Neverfull, which are easily recognizable and timeless.

Tip: For a good investment, opt for brands that have weathered fashion trends and maintained high desirability. Newer “it” brands may be exciting, but there’s no guarantee they’ll retain their appeal (or value) down the line.

2. Iconic Styles and Timeless Appeal

Classic styles are essential to investment-worthy bags. These items usually hold value better than trend-based pieces, thanks to their timeless design and broad appeal. When looking for an investment piece, focus on bags with clean lines, neutral colors, and classic silhouettes.

For example:

• The Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags: These timeless styles have remained relatively unchanged since their introductions in 1984 and 1935. Birkins, in particular, increase in value on the resale market due to their limited availability and high demand.
• The Chanel Classic Flap Bag: With its signature quilted leather, double-C logo, and chain strap, this purse is one of the ultimate symbols of wealth. Due to Chanel’s annual price hikes, even older versions are highly desirable and hold their value.
• The Louis Vuitton Speedy: With its monogram canvas and distinctive shape, the Speedy is instantly recognizable and remains one of Louis Vuitton’s most popular bags.

Tip: Look for bags that have earned “classic” status yet align with your personal style, as you’ll likely own and enjoy these pieces for years (or decades).

3. Limited Editions and Collaborations: Scarcity Adds Value

When it comes to investment bags, limited editions and special collaborations generate heightened demand. Since brands produce them in smaller quantities, collectors want nothing more than to get their hands on them.

Brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci frequently release limited-edition versions of their classic bags in collaboration with artists and designers. Louis Vuitton’s collaborations with Stephen Sprouse, Takashi Murakami, and Yayoi Kusama are some examples where art meets luxury, creating pieces that are visually unique and high in demand. Hermès, too, occasionally releases limited-edition versions of its classic bags in unique leathers, colors, or with custom hardware, sparking intense interest.

Tip: When shopping for investment-worthy limited editions, research the artist or designer's popularity and the brand’s previous collaboration success. Pieces celebrating a specific fashion era or culture can have lasting appeal in the luxury resale market.

4. Quality of Materials and Craftsmanship: Look for Durability

High-quality materials are a hallmark of investment-worthy bags. Bags made from premium leathers, exotic skins, or durable canvas can last decades, aging gracefully and even becoming more appealing over time. For example:

• Hermès uses a variety of leathers and skins, including Togo, Clemence, and alligator, each chosen for its unique texture and durability. These leathers wear beautifully, with scratches that buff out or even enhance the bag’s patina.
• Louis Vuitton is popular for its durable monogram and Damier canvas, which are waterproof, scratch-resistant, and stand the test of time.
• Chanel consumers love caviar leather—a durable, pebbled texture that’s more resistant to scratches than the brand’s lambskin, which tends to show signs of wear faster.

Tip: Look for bags made from materials that age well. A piece that stays beautiful with time will have better resale value. High-quality bags don’t just look good; they’re built to last.

5. Condition and Maintenance: Well-Preserved Bags Retain Value

Even if they’re built to last, an investment-worthy bag still requires care to preserve its condition, as wear and tear can affect resale value. Regular maintenance is especially important if you’re buying pre-owned pieces. Bags in pristine condition, even vintage ones, command significantly higher prices in the resale market.

For pre-owned items, check for:

• Minimal signs of wear: Bags kept in excellent condition are more attractive to buyers.
• Original packaging and authenticity: Dust bags, authenticity cards, and original boxes add to the bag’s resale value. For Chanel, Hermès, and other bags from top designers, original hardware stickers and any authentication paperwork can drive the value up even further.

Tip: Proper storage, routine cleaning, and avoiding overstuffing will help maintain a bag’s shape and quality. If buying pre-owned, investing in professional cleaning or conditioning services can restore a bag’s value.

6. Color and Versatility: Neutrals Are Your Friends

While bold colors can be eye-catching, neutral colors tend to hold their value better. Since black beige, brown, and navy bags are easier to match with various outfits, they often sell faster in the resale market. However, rare and limited colors still hold significant value if they’re highly sought after. For example:

• Black Chanel Classic Flap Bag: A versatile black bag is a wardrobe staple that tends to retain strong resale value. Chanel’s seasonal colors may fluctuate in desirability, but black remains a classic.
• Hermès’ “Gold” and “Etoupe” Birkin and Kelly bags are more marketable because they’re neutral yet sophisticated, ideal for everyday use.

Tip: Choose colors you love. While neutrals are a safer investment, don’t rule out loud colors if they’re rare or released in limited runs.

7. Choose Pieces with Broad Appeal, but Stay True to You

Certain designer bags have a universal appeal, making them popular in a broader resale market. These widely recognizable bags usually sell faster and retain a higher value.

For example, according to Harper’s Bazaar, the top ten designer bags include:

• The Chanel Flap
• The Row Blake
• The Prada Cleo
• The Dior Saddle
• The Gucci Horsebit 1955
• The Loewe Puzzle
• The Hermès Birkin
• The Celine Triomphe
• The Balenciaga Cagole
• The Bottega Veneta Sardine

Tip: Balance universal appeal with your style preferences. Investment pieces should match your taste; there’s no point in buying a bag you don’t love.

Final Thoughts: Investment Is More Than Monetary

Choosing an investment-worthy bag means finding one that complements your style and brings satisfaction to your everyday life. While factors like resale value and rarity are important, the best choice is one that aligns with your personal taste and lifestyle. Whether it’s a timeless Chanel, a bold Gucci, or an iconic Hermès, the right investment bag is one you’ll enjoy carrying. 

Explore our collection to find an investment that feels personal, timeless, and uniquely yours.