35 designer handbags that will stand the test of time

From Saint Laurent to Gucci, Chanel to Dior, these are the designs that will never go out of style

When it comes to wardrobe investments, there is nothing quite like a great designer handbag. Choose the right one and look after it correctly, and it will be a wardrobe mainstay for the rest of your life. It may even be an item that you pass down through the generations, or something you eventually sell and may even make money on. With that being said, if you are thinking of splurging on a new designer bag, then it is definitely worth considering a style that will stand the test of time, rather than just a one-season wonder that will eventually end up gathering dust at the back of your wardrobe. For this, the best option is either to look to the classics – some of which may have had a modern makeover, but are still very much trend-free – or to snap up designs that have an endless elegance about them (think timeless colours, seasonless silhouettes and trusty fabrics). So here, we round up 35 of the best designer handbags which are unlikely to date anytime soon, and will certainly never feel like a regretful purchase. Many may be names you are already familiar with; forever staples from Chanel, Gucci and Dior, but you will also find new styles from heritage brands, alongside new names to know in the world of designer handbags, in this round-up. These are the accessories that are actually worth investing in, whether you are treating yourself or looking for a very special gift, in the market for an evening bag or are after a tote that's perfect for the office. These are designer names you can trust. Black Tee

35 designer handbags that will stand the test of time

If you're looking for a more affordable option, we have got you covered, too. See our round-up of the best designer handbags under £500, here. And, don't forget about pre-loved styles. Make sure to check out the best luxury resale sites to sell your old bag or to hunt for a secondhand bargain.

Add some glamour to any look with Louis Vuitton's classic quilted Alma bag, in this beautiful deep navy. The style has existed in various forms for more than 120 years and only seems to improve with age.

Discover more about the evolution of the Alma here.

This classic Chanel handbag is a truly great investment that will never go out of style. Need we say more?

While you can of course always buy new, there are plenty of great vintage finds to be discovered.

The Cleo bag takes influence from archival Prada pieces. With its sleek and streamlined appearance, it is not hard to see why it has been such a huge hit with fashion editors and influencers worldwide.

Givenchy's Voyou, a slouchy V-shaped shoulder bag, launched this summer, and quickly became a fashion-editor favourite. The style comes in mini, medium and large, various colour iterations, as well as leather, satin and even washed denim. The strap can also be adjusted to be long, short or worn crossbody. We love it in classic black.

It's not difficult to see why Dior's Saddle bag remains so popular: the style – which first appeared on the catwalk in 1999, became an it-bag in the Noughties, and has been a staple ever since – is the perfect way to elevate any day or night ensemble.

Shop more Dior Saddles here and learn more about the '00s icon.

Gucci's Horsebit bag was first released in 1955, and is today one of the house's most popular styles. This version comes with both a classic leather and a colourful canvas strap, giving you even more versatility.

Maximilian Davis has won widespread praise for how he has reimagined house classics at Ferragamo. This includes the Wanda, a bag that was first introduced in 1988 in honour of Salvatore’s wife, Wanda Ferragamo. Davis has reworked it with new geometric proportions, and it comes in three shapes: a horizontal silhouette to look like a clutch, a vertical square shape, and a mini version for evenings. We love the square style in black for a timeless wardrobe addition.

JW Anderson's Bumper bag has become a real favourite in the Bazaar office, and with so many colours to choose from, there really is a style for everyone (as well as the more curvy Bumper Moon). See more about the Bumper bag here.

Leather bag, was £650, now £390, JW Anderson

When it comes to versatile classics that won't date, you can't go wrong with The Row. This beige leather Park tote from the US label is a lovely choice.

Dolce & Gabana's Sicily bag comes in a number of different hues, and is a year-round winner. The ladylike silhouette means it can dress up any ensemble, but it is also the perfect size for carrying around day-to-day.

Leather bag, £1,100, Dolce & Gabbana

16Arlington's Kikka bag is named after its late co-founder, Federica 'Kikka' Cavenati. It has become a signature of the house, and a real favourite of fashion editors.

Paco Rabanne's 1969 bag is one which has undoubtedly stood the test of time, still just as popular today as it was when it first launched. Truly a handbag icon, this is one for your after-dark wardrobe.

Discover the fascinating history of the 1969 bag here.

You can always rely on Versace to inject a little glamour into your wardrobe, and this top-handled leather bag will do just that. The style has an attachable shoulder strap, too.

Isabel Marant's Oskan Moon makes a great daytime statement. The design – which comes in various colours and fabrics, including this classic black and a lovely orange suede – features gold studs, and is the perfect size for everyday use.

We love this small, new-season Kaia bag from YSL, which is sure to become a treasured piece in your wardrobe. It feels as classic as they come.

Kate 99 suede bag, £1,350, Saint Laurent

Loewe's Puzzle bag comes in a huge variety of colours and sizes, including this small, textured design in sand, which would be a lovely addition to any woman's wardrobe.

Read more about the history of the Puzzle here.

Now here is a bag that needs no introduction; the Hermès Birkin, one of the most famous handbags of all time and one that is usually very difficult to get your hands on (and is considered a better investment than gold). However, Farfetch's vintage offering is currently selling a pre-owned Birkin in a timeless brown, which probably won't be hanging around for long.

Discover more about the history of the Birkin, and how to get your hands on one, here.

Leather bag, £34,318, Vintage Hermès at Farfetch

Celine is a firm favourite for chic accessories, crafted from the most luxurious materials. This Triomphe bag is particularly special – a signature style, which is available in number of classic colours, including navy, tan and this delicious dark beige.

Read more about the history of the Triomphe here.

Leather bag, £2,950, Celine by Hedi Slimane

Balenciaga's Cagole style is a new iteration from the house, one which is inspired by the silhouette of its cult City bag. It would make a very chic addition to both your day-to-day and your evening wardrobe.

The Jewelled Hobo Bag is one of the chicest offerings from Alexander McQueen's accessory collection, but is a style that we think will be around for decades. Featuring the brand's iconic knuckleduster clasp, the bag comes in various sizes and colourways. We love this black leather option for work, and the mini silver style for party season.

Platform party shoes to shop now

10 red dresses to make a statement in

20 of the best underwear brands to know now

The best personalisation services to try now

The designer shoes that will never go out of style

Why we should all be reworking our wardrobe

12 of the best camel coats to invest in

Swap your novelty knit for a Christmas cardigan

15 of the best New Year's Eve dresses

15 sparkling pairs of embellished heels

The best over-the-knee boots to buy now

HARPER'S BAZAAR, PART OF THE HEARST UK FASHION & BEAUTY NETWORK

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.