Consignment designer handbags, totes, and other carry-on bags are considered a good investment. In fact, according to Forbes, luxury designer bags may very well be better than art in terms of ROI because of the whopping 83 percent average increase in their value in the past decade.
Of course, that’s just the monetary value. Add that to the sheer usefulness and functionality of these items, and you’ll definitely get more than your money’s worth.
But to make sure you get the most out of your investment, skip those one-season wonders that will only gather dust in your closet after a short while. Instead, go for classic designs that will last life in terms of both durability and style, like those from these top five timeless brands:
1. Chanel
When you think about luxury bags, Chanel is one of the first brands that come to mind. After all, there are only a few things that are more luxurious than a Chanel bag.
Coco Chanel herself designed the 2.55 Chanel bag in 1955, the original classic quilted bag that became a foundation for the brand’s luxury handbags.
From then on, the legacy has been continued by the 11.2, otherwise known as the Chanel Classic Flap bag created on Karl Lagerfeld’s arrival in 1982.
Like the 2.55, the 11.2 bag sports diamond quilting, a gold chain, and a double flap. Of course, that signature “CC” clasp that the luxury brand is known for is present as well, offering added beauty and functionality to this luxury handbag.
Like its predecessor, the 11.2 is a bag that marries elegance and practicality.
2. Louis Vuitton
Never underestimate the power of a classic tote bag – this is something you need to learn when investing in a good designer bag and what Louis Vuitton probably had in mind with the Neverfull bag.
Considered as one of the brand’s most successful releases, this all-time crowd favorite offers plenty of fashionable options to match unique personalities. It also comes in special artist collaborations and limited editions.
Carrying the same iconic print and signature trims as Neverfull is the NéoNoé. Considered another icon from the popular fashion brand, this handbag was first designed in 1932 to help customers carry their champagne in style. From then on, it has evolved into one of today’s most stylish accessories.
Another piece from Louis Vuitton you should consider – especially if you prefer your bags to be functional – is the gorgeous Alma bag. Aside from the unmistakable Louis Vuitton logo, it is also famous for its practical shape.
3. Prada
Prada is another fashion powerhouse that you’ll want in your closet. Besides making a name with their ever-so-popular shoes that became an inspiration for a best-selling novel and box office movie, the brand is also renowned for some of its classic bags.
A perfect example is the Cleo. Inspired by the archival Prada, this bag sports a sleek and streamlined aesthetic that has become its propeller into becoming one of the top choices among influencers and fashion editors all over the world.
4. Hermès
Hermès is a brand well-known for its rarity, scarcity, and demand, and yet there are two bags under this brand that are considered the Holy Grail of designer handbags: the Birkin and the Kelly.
Although it has adapted and evolved through the years, the Hermès bag named after Jane Birkin has been highly coveted since it was first introduced in 1984. Today, its smaller version roughly 25 centimeters big has become quite popular amongst women who want something they can bring anywhere, be it a quick lunch with girlfriends or a prestigious evening event.
Aside from the iconic and versatile Hermès Birkin, many fashion bloggers and enthusiasts see the Kelly bag as a highly understated fashion must-have.
Originally known as the Sac à dépêches, this bag became “the Kelly” to pay homage to Grace Kelly who used the bag as a shield to keep her first pregnancy secret from the paparazzi.
Right now, the Kelly sells between 100 to 200 percent of its original value even if it hasn’t been given the same level of exposure as its label-mate.
5. Gucci
No designer bag roundup would be complete without the name “Gucci.” Like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, this Italian luxury brand is popular for an extremely recognizable “GG” logo.
As one of The Big Five in fashion, Gucci has several classic bags that would serve as a great investment – whether or not you’re a fashion fanatic. But for now, your focus should be on the iconic Jackie bag.
Out of all the bags in the Gucci repertoire, the Jackie is considered the most archetypal luxury bag that captured the attention of women from different generations. In fact, it has become well-loved, especially after Jackie Kennedy herself was seen carrying one. It is a bag named to pay homage to her, after all.
Designed with simplicity at the core, this hobo designer bag resonated with many generations and has been revamped over the years to accommodate the changing times. Of course, you simply can’t miss this marvelous gem no matter how much it has changed with Tom Ford’s (1999), Frida Giannini’s (2009), and Alessandro Michele’s (2020) updates.
Besides the unmistakable GG canvas, you’ll find the Jackie in all-leather variants for that cool and minimalist aesthetic.
Buy Designer to Save More
Investing in these brands for your fashion ensemble is always a good decision. But do you know what could make it even better?
Buying them from second-hand designer accessories shops online at a much lower price.