You're probably sick of hearing about inflation. I know I am, but it's a very real thing. And fashion—especially luxury fashion—hasn't been spared. First things first, designer handbags are obviously hardly a necessity, and inflation is a much bigger problem when it comes to things like rising food, gas, and lodging prices. But if you are in the market for a designer bag, the significantly higher prices compared to last year can be a tough pill to swallow. I certainly don't love paying more for something I could have gotten for a few hundred dollars less a year ago, but it is what it is, unfortunately.
I can't change the price of designer handbags, but what I can do is offer advice on which ones are still worth the money if you're in the market for a bag. Whenever I invest in a designer bag, I'm sure to choose one that I'm positive I'll wear for years and that won't look dated in a few seasons. All of these fit that criteria and are just plain chic and cool. Keep scrolling to shop my investment-worthy bag recommendations.
I have this in black and can confirm that it's the perfect size for both day and night. It's also one of my favorites to travel with, as it's so versatile and chic.
Bottega Veneta
Mini Jodie Leather Hobo Bag
You know a bag is great when a brand releases it in a plethora of colors.
Jacquemus
Black La Montagne Le Grand Chiquito Bag
This structured Jacquemus bag works with outfits both casual and dressy, which explains why it's been an It bag for years now.
Gucci
Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag
Gucci's signature logo and its signature Horsebit design make for a perfect match.
This is my favorite bag to carry for fancy occasions. It makes any outfit look significantly cooler.
Saint Laurent
Victoire Leather Shoulder Bag
You can't go wrong with any of the Saint Laurent logo bags, but I love that this one has a chain strap and a subtle logo.
Givenchy
Moon Cut Out Small Leather Shoulder Bag
My favorite thing about this chic Givenchy bag is that you can carry it via the leather strap or the chain strap. Additionally, the silver hardware sets it apart in a sea of gold-hardware bags.
It's painful to admit but when I got this bag in December, it was $150 cheaper. That said, it's a beautiful, subtle logo bag and I still think it's worth it.
Loewe
Puzzle Leather Shoulder Bag
Loewe somehow managed to make its original Puzzle bag even more covetable.
Loewe x Paula's Ibiza
Small Leather-Trimmed Woven Raffia Tote
Loewe makes the holy grail of designer straw bags.
The Prada Cleo bag has proven to be one of those rare bags that stays an It bag long after its release.
Prada
Re-Edition 2005 Re-Nylon Mini Bag
This lightweight shoulder bag is another favorite of mine, as it fits a surprising number of items, and it's an excellent option for travel.
Prada
Satin Mini-Bag with Artificial Crystals
Speaking of Prada nylon, sometimes bags come out that are so special, they're instantly timeless.
Bottega Veneta
Flap Intrecciato Leather Shoulder Bag
This is a newer Bottega bag style, but I'm already sure it's going to be a cult favorite.
Saint Laurent
Kate Small YSL Monogram Grain de Poudre Crossbody Bag on Chain
This pretty Saint Laurent bag is a beautiful choice you'll wear for years. In particular, I'd wear it for nights out and special occasions as its size, structure, and chain strap make it feel a bit fancy.
Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater arts. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.