By Harper's BAZAAR - published
From leather totes to denim shoulder bags to ones made of exotic skins, the right bag has the power to elevate one’s fit or speak of one’s personality. As trends come and go and seasons pass, we’re presented with an abundance of bags. How do we know what to choose? Read on as we’ve curated a selection of the latest offerings that are worth the splurge, and will stand the test of time.
1. Capucines Mini in Taurillon leather, $9,950, Louis Vuitton
Named after Rue Des Capucines in Paris, where Louis Vuitton opened its first store in 1854, the Capucines was first introduced in 2013. This particular edition is crafted using Taurillon leather and is adorned with a set of three removable chains featuring enamelled monogram motifs, padlocks, and mother-of-pearl effect beading. Petite enough to accompany you on a fancy dinner date, and chic enough for a casual brunch with your girlfriends, the Capucines Mini will be a versatile addition to your bag arsenal.
2. Medium Lady Dior bag in graphic Cannage denim, $9,600, Dior
There’s no doubt that the Lady Dior, renamed in honour of Lady Diana in 1995, is an investment piece and a timeless must-have. Consider the new denim version from its fall/winter 2024 collection your kryptonite. It stays true to Dior’s signature elegance and refinement, but also has the added fashion-forward and spontaneous edge that dark denim brings. The Lady Dior bag in graphic Cannage denim offers a youthful and off-beat vibe that the people’s princess would’ve loved too.
3. 9TO5 bag in python leather, $8,800, Valentino Garavani
With the arrival of Alessandro Michele at Valentino came theatrics and opulence, and that is true for the 9TO5 bag in beautiful python leather, part of his debut collection, Avant Lés Debuts. While the design is simple, the bag boasts a spacious interior with three compartments to keep your essentials organised. Extravagant yet timeless, bring your drama around in the form of an everyday bag slung on your shoulder or worn across the body.
BAZAAR Editor’s Picks: Best Looks From Valentino Spring/Summer 2025
4. Maxi Hobo bag in leather, $9,120, Chanel
Remember when the Chanel 22 gained prominence and presence in everyone’s wardrobes? Here’s a new offering from Chanel that may achieve the same cult status with an equally sophisticated and free-spirited air. Covered in classic Chanel quilting and boosting a sturdy structure, the Hobo bag is equipped with multiple pockets for easy accessibility and zipped compartments in its roomy interior for all your knick-knacks. Available in various sizes and materials, it’s the perfect balance of refinement and ease.
Related article: 8 Maxi Bags You Need For All Your Daily Essentials
5. Aventure bag in nappa leather, $5,800, Miu Miu
Reimagined from the Miu Miu archives, the Aventure bag comes in four sizes ready to cater to all your needs. While the vegetable-tanned nappa leather and gold-tone hardware offer a vintage appeal, the classic silhouette renders a certain charm that only Miu Miu possesses. Hang multiple charms off it for added character, or let it shine on its own, the Miu Miu Aventure is definitely one for keeps.
Related Article: BAZAAR Editor’s Picks: Best Looks From Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2025
6. Large Andiamo in lambskin, $11,270, Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta’s Large Andiamo bag highlights innovation and functionality. It can be worn in three different ways: as a top-handle bag, cross-body, and over the shoulder. The sizable bag is crafted in the house’s signature Intrecciato technique and anchored with the Bottega Veneta brass knot, which can easily fit a laptop and all your daily essentials—perfect for everyday and beyond.
7. Medium Galleria bag in Saffiono leather, $6,700, Prada
An icon through and through, the Prada Galleria embodies the innovative and modern spirit of the Italian house. Over the years, the Galleria has been constantly reinvented, reflecting both the trends while preserving its timeless design. Made of resilient and supple Saffiano leather that is unique to Prada, the timeless accessory is equipped with three internal compartments, removable straps and sturdy top handles, complete with metal hardware and the renowned emblematic triangle logo.
8. Medium Peekaboo Soft in leather, $7,290, Fendi
Inspired by the children’s game of Peek-a-boo, Fendi’s Peekaboo bag is a perfect balance of playfulness and refinement. This is amplified with its latest iteration of the Peekaboo Soft, where its celebrated trapezoidal shape is complemented with supple leather that gently folds down to reveal a “smile” and its luxurious suede-lined interiors.
9. Medium Voyou bag in python, $7,000, Givenchy
Much like a hobo shape, Givenchy’s Voyou bag boasts a V-shaped slouch, accented with silver-tone hardware and buckle-fastening details for that bad-ass vibe. Soft and lightweight, the scarlet python iteration showcases an edgy yet sensuous and luxurious side. Voyou’s expansive main compartment, a secure zipped inner pocket, and adjustable straps prove its functionality while cementing itself as a sophisticated and modern number.
Related Article: How To Wear Red Accessories, As Seen On The Streets And Runways
10. Medium Rodeo bag in calfskin, $6,500, Balenciaga
Balenciaga’s Rodeo bag reflects the cool and nonchalant attitude that has become synonymous with the brand. The slouchy exterior projects a stylishly laid-back appeal, while the soft calfskin with a matte finish gives off stealth luxury vibes. Personalise yours by hanging key fobs, charms and the like all over as they did in the Balenciaga spring/summer 2024 show, or keep it clean and chic for an understated look.
11. Small Gucci Bamboo 1947 bag, $7,150, Gucci
Synonymous with the house of Gucci, the hand-carved bamboo details have become icons in their own right. Making its debut in 1947 in post-war Italy where resources were scarce, Gucci discovered the lightweight material and durability of bamboo, and the rest is history. Together with the signature Gucci Web strap, the Gucci Bamboo 1947 bag is a celebration of innovation, history, and craftmanship—a bag with a story to tell, and a bag to hold dear.
Related article: The Best Places To Buy Vintage Luxury Bags In Tokyo
12. Teen Garance in Niloticus crocodile leather, CELINE
What looks at first glance like just another leather handbag turns out to be more than meets the eye when you try it on. The mid-length handle strategically allows the bag to rest comfortably just below your elbows when you wear it on your shoulders, making CELINE’s Teen Garance bag both practical and elegant all the same. Made of luxurious Niloticus crocodile leather and centred with Celine’s Triomphe closure, the Teen Garance bag ticks all the boxes of functionality, refinement, and luxury.
13. Y Bag, $5,250, Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
Say hello to your new do-it-all tote, the Y bag. Void of the house’s iconic YSL Cassandre hardware, the relaxed leather tote bag is anchored by a large (but sleek) ‘Y’ lettering in the middle, presenting an understated take on logos. Undeniably cool and nonchalantly elegant, Saint Laurent’s Y bag affirms its longevity across years and trends to come.