The 14 Most Iconic Bags and Purses Worth the Investment

Much like a coveted pair of heels or a statement-making necklace, an iconic handbag is never just an afterthought-accessory. If you ask me, carrying around a classic Chanel or an undeniably exquisite Hermés is the equivalent to winning Miss America and the lottery on the same day. Seriously — the handbag lottery.

The attention to craftsmanship and quality make these pieces worth the price. Not to mention the cost per wear: These bags last decades and can be worn everyday, making them solid investments. And not just investments in good style, either. The value on some of these iconic pieces is projected to rise over time, making them a great addition to your financial portfolio. That is, if you could ever bring yourself to sell one.

These are the 14 most iconic bags you can buy today:

Read on to see why each of these monoliths made our list.

Prada Small Tote

"It's not just a bag. It's Prada!"

Gucci Bamboo Top Handle Bag

You can't go wrong with any Gucci bag that includes the iconic bamboo handle.

Chloe Drew Shoulder Bag

The Drew bag might be one of the newer purses on the list, but its timeless design has solidified its position as a modern icon for boho-chic women everywhere.

Saint Laurent Bag

Hedi Slimane introduced us to this modern classic in 2015. As long as professional women continue to serve looks in the workplace, it will always, always be in style.

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

Kate Middleton and Katie Holmes are among the many celebrity fans of this weatherproof, classic tote.

Chanel Quilted Bag

I mean, do we really need to explain?

Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette Bag

Bottega Veneta owns the trademark on its classic basket weave technique. The Padded Cassette Bag is the crown jewel of clutch-crossbodies.

Dior Lady Dior Bag

Birthed in the mid '90s and a staple for Princess Diana, this chic bag is the epitome of timeless elegance. Today, you can find the Lady Dior Bag in so many sizes, colors, and prints.

Coach Messenger Crossbody

The messenger is one of the most iconic crossbody bags, and Coach's design combines both quality and timeless style at an affordable price.

Balenciaga Leather Tote Bag

The signature hardware and XL tassel is what made the Balenciaga Moto bag a stand out in the early aughts.

Valentino Shoulder Bag

Fashionistas will never get tired of the Rockstud pieces from Valentino. Find it on a sneaker, a sweatshirt... and of course, a handbag.

Hermès Birkin Bag

Hermès artistic director Jean-Louis Dumas designed this now-iconic bag after hearing actress Jane Birkin lament about not having a bag large enough to carry her daughter's baby bottles. Fast forward some 35 years, and the bag is now a more sound investment than gold.

Prada Black Nylon Waist Pouch

The bum bag has Prada to thank for its return — particularly this nylon version, which has become popular to wear across the chest rather than at the hip, as it was in the '90s.

Dior Canvas Saddle Bag

What would this list be if we didn't include the saddle bag? Originally designed by John Galliano in 1999 and worn by the time's biggest 'Its' Paris Hilton and SJP, the bag's 2018 re-release was just as explosive — just ask the Hadids.

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