When it comes designer bags, all of us here started somewhere! A first bag means different things to different people. For some the first was a gift, maybe it was for a birthday or graduation or maybe for you it was the first thing you bought when you started your career. Maybe your first designer bag was that thing that said ‘I’m here and I’ve made it!”
That ‘first’ can happen at any stage of life and not everyone has yet to find the perfect starter bag to help them foray into the fun world of designer handbags. While a career woman in her 30s might be looking to take her wardrobe to the next level with something ultra-lux, a just-out-of college girl or guy might be looking for something that’s trendy and chic but won’t break the bank.
Below, we’ve selected ten bags that we think you should consider if you’re looking to dip your toes into the designer bag pond. Come on in, the water’s fine.
Many handbag lovers look to Louis Vuitton for their first bag and rightfully so. After all, it is one of the world’s largest (and oldest) handbag brands. While many opt for the brand’s storied Monogram canvas, Epi leather is a great option because it’s both classic and stylish while remaining incredibly durable. Plus, with so many leather bags from premiere designers topping the $3k and even $4k mark, this one is *relatively* on the more affordable side for a leather bag.
Most handbag lovers dream of owning a Chanel bag at one point or another. Unfortunately the never-ending price increases make that seem a bit unattainable at times, with a medium classic flap retailing for a whopping $6,800 now. Fortunately there are some great vintage options on the resale market and the best part is that they will likely hold their value. Fashionphile is a great place to start your search.
For another premier designer bag that won’t completely break the bank, look no further than Gucci. Gucci used to be our go to for bags just under $1,000, but these days their entry level bags hover just above that. While there are a handful of options we still have love for the GG Marmont Mini Bag.
Bottega Veneta is one of the hottest handbag brands right now thanks to the work of Daniel Lee. But before Daniel Lee the brand had an already rich history, with its Intrecciato weave being a beloved choice for handbag lovers. This Cassette bag features the updated, enlarged version of the House classic and comes in a plethora of colors both fun and neutral.
If your budget is on the tighter side look no further than Coach. American women have been foraying into the handbag world with Coach for decades; the brand provided an introduction for both Megs and myself when we were in middle school. Today Coach is steadily making a comeback, with plenty of options that feel youthful and fresh without looking overly trendy or inexpensive.
If you’re looking for a nice bag that doesn’t immediately scream “designer” than we’d definitely recommend something from Khaite. Whether you like to keep things under-the-radar at work or if that’s simply not your look, Khaite’s simple, yet sleek Augusta bag in a neutral hue is perfect.
There’s truly never been a better time to be a handbag lover. If you’re starting your collection and want to go the contemporary or indie route, there are a slew of affordable options from designers like By Far and STAUD, though these options definitely tend to air more on the trendy side.
With the introduction of the Neo Classic, it’s clear that Balenciaga’s moto bags are a full-fledged classic at this point and will never truly go out of style. While you could opt for a miniaturized City Bag, we go love the updated Neo Classic get. It’s the perfect way to get that classic Bag look in a fresh way.
Chloé’s Marcie line has been around for over 10 years, and the smallest member of the family is not only adorable, but also affordable. The Chloé Mini Marcie is one of those rare gems that is still priced in the 3 figure window. It is a true classic and you cannot go wrong with this one.
Prada nylon is great option for a first-time handbag buyer if you’re not set on getting leather. For starters it’s always a classic, it’s incredibly stylish, it’s ultra durable, and because it’s not leather, it’s more affordable…you simply cannot go wrong.
Remember don’t think too hard! Go with your gut and don’t forget to have fun with it too. If your heart is screaming for that colorful carry but your more practical side is begging you to get a neutral, remember that you can never go wrong with the bag that give you butterflies!
This list needs a Proenza Schouler PS1!
And Loewe Puzzle bag???
maybe toooooo….expansive be a 1st bag.
Most women start their luxury bag collections with a Speedy or NF. And even though those two bags are overexposed, there is a reason why they are beloved. I think if I were new to luxury handbags and only considering the bags in this list, I would probably go for the Prada reedition. The price is not totally ridiculous, it’s very easy to care for, it’s light weight, and it’s versatile. Also, let’s be honest: the vast majority of people can’t afford to spend more than a $1,000 on a handbag.
yes! The speedy was my first one and honestly I still love it years later. It’s my go-to rain bag it fits SO much, zips closed, and is nearly indestructible!
Damier ebene right? Because azur and monogram vachetta is so high maintenance lol
Why would anyone new to luxury handbags would spend almost $2000 on KHAITE? Mulberry are more subtle and good quality bag and less expensive. Just saying.
Yeah I didn’t even know about this brand. The bag is pretty though.
I was asking myself that question some weeks ago when I was thinking in my daughter’s 18th birthday present, the first luxury handbag to start her collection. My first one was a LV but I knew she is a “no logo or small logo” person. Therefore I decided to start in a kind of chronological order. The oldest luxury handbag brand first and that is Loewe (older than Hermes from from year the brand was registred at least). I chose a new Loewe model, Heel duo, that she thought was perfect for her. The design is inspired in the old male coin purse. It is minimalist, crossbody option, so many chance to use, enjoy and hopefully she would like more handbags in the future.
Hi, my daughter just turned 18 and I also wanted to do the same thing for her…I ended up getting her the LV Lockme Bucket in the color Arizona and she LOVES. Think for Xmas I’ll get her the Gucci GG Small Ophidia with the Red/Green web strap. I told her, these are investment pieces and the only reason I’m even paying that much on a handbag. It’s something that’s she can always sell and make money on if ever she’s in a bind as an adult.
Speedy and neverfull should 100% be on this list. Speedy was the first luxury bag i purchased with my own earnings at 16 yrs old. And today at 34, i still love it and use it. But mostly just for travel now because of having a large collection.
And the neverfull.. i have 4 kinds. The best “throw all your crap in there and go” bag, haha !
…”I have a little Coach Clutch I use as a bone bag. I’m running low…Got any?”….?<-Little Lucy Lou, Boneless Poo
All of the purses on this list are too small to use…And, your list is missing a Fendi style. My 1st designer purse was a Prada bowler in the 90’s when Italy was still on the lire and the exchange rate was good- It was a birthday/Christmas combo gift from my Dad. It cost ~$1100 and I was terrified to use it because I might ruin it. Now, since you can find deals on pre-owned styles, as a teacher I love to buy (and wear) designer purses… They just make you feel good!