10 Classic Handbags and What to Wear With Them

by Kathleen Loxton
Woman carrying leather Burberry handbag

Whether you are making the most of the summer sunshine or darting between department stores to avoid snow, the perfect bag will finish off any look – whatever the occasion. To help you make the pick of the bunch, we’ve pulled together a list of the top 10 handbags and what to wear them with.

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Top Ten Designer Handbags

Chanel Classic Flap Bag

It’s no surprise that we want to make the right choice when it comes to selecting between the best designer bags. When you purchase a luxury bag, you’ll often consider it an investment – indeed, some investment handbags can be more profitable than stocks in gold. A Chanel classic handbag, like this classic flap bag, is a fine choice.

Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM

Make a statement with the Neverfull GM, the most popular Louis Vuitton bag that has rightly earned its spot among our top ten designer bags. With the freshly redesigned interior, and a charming removable zippered clutch, you’re sure to never be out of compliments. Perfect for pairing with dreamy dresses, or just putting a spring in your step!

Chloe Drew Shoulder Bag

As decadent as a piece of jewellery, the Drew Bag by Chloé is certainly one of the must have handbags that’ll last season after season. From romantic date to picnic in the park: this has the right rosy-hue to see anything through, oui?

Celine Luggage Bag

Whether you’re heading out to catch some rays on a nearby roof terrace or jetting off to find some holiday sunshine, the jeans or a skirt, and see where the day will take you.

Balenciaga Classic Silver City

If you’re looking for a bag that’ll transcend the seasons, look no further than Balenciaga’s Classic Silver City. Whilst remaining an extremely popular designer bag, it is simple enough to be adaptable yet of enough obvious quality it’ll make you feel special toting it. Wear the Classic City with ripped jeans for a rock’n’roll edge, or Capri pants for a more polished look.

Mulberry Bayswater

When you think of the best handbag brands, Mulberry is the name most likely at the top of the list. We consider the Bayswater the best Mulberry bag because not only is it one of their most iconic pieces, but also the new version is enviably lightweight and has a detachable shoulder strap for more versatility. Don it to inject some colour into your look, or match it with a lurid print.

Saint Laurent Monogram Blogger Bag

Instantly recognisable from front-rows to festivals, any list of top designer bags wouldn’t be complete without the leather. Extra points for oversized sunglasses (you know, to protect from the paparazzi).

Gucci Soho Medium Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag

trench coats to cardigans. Use the Soho to juxtapose your look or complement it.

Christian Dior Lady Dior Bag

Who doesn’t adore a bit of Dior? Dior’s Lady Dior bag sets the gold standard for timeless elegance amongst designer bags, thus placing it on our list. A divine choice for a luncheon or a day out with the girls shopping; think classic clothing shapes to make this accessory really turn heads.

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Saffiano Tote

Another of the most popular designer bags for the jetsetter and city slicker alike: the Jet Set Travel Saffiano Tote is the best Michael Kors bag for a touch of glamour and everyday use. It works for both meetings and restaurants, so take a leaf out of a New Yorker’s book and complete your city style with this piece.

Designer Purses

If your wallet doesn’t quite stretch to a designer handbag, don’t worry – you can invest in a top designer purse instead! A purse can be a more affordable choice for a gift, and can allow you to splurge on a favourite label if it’s a treat for yourself.

When choosing from the best designer purses, consider whether the material will last with constant use, and if the print is one that you won’t tire of. To guide you, we’ve selected some of our favourites from the most popular designer purses in store now:

Burberry HAYMARKET CHECK AND LEATHER CONTINENTAL WALLET
Burberry - £325
Ted Baker Blushing Bouquet Matinee Wallet
Ted Baker - £85
Guess Tulip Large Zip Around Purse
Guess - £45
Love Moschino Letters Flap Over Purse
Moschino - £85
DKNY Saffiano Large Ziparound Purse
DKNY - £100
Coach blue grained leather wallet
Coach - £75

Must Have Bags: Celebrity Favourites

Emma Watson pairs a black box bag with black leather jacket and ribbed knit dress

Photo Credit: Vogue Online

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This Belle knows how to put an edgy spin on the classic black handbag. Effortless and chic, Emma Watson makes a statement for all the cool girls.

Selena Gomez styles jeans and a cropped jacket with a white grab bag

Photo Credit: Elle Online

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We just can’t get enough of this look on Selena Gomez! We certainly won’t be able to keep our hands to ourselves when it comes to capturing this classically cool ensemble.

Alexa Chung shows how a red mock croc bag can add a pop of colour to any outfit

Photo Credit: Elle Online

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It girl Alexa Chung reminds us why she’s a style A-lister. With this sophisticated outfit you’ll be ready to go from boardroom to a classy evening of wining and dining.

Kate Middleton showcases her classic style with a red lace dress and complementary velvet clutch bag

Photo Credit: Hello Magazine

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The Duchess sure knows how to make an entrance. Capture Kate Middleton’s style with an outfit that is both classic and modern, with perfectly matching accessories of course.

Blake Lively looks glamorous in a black frayed dress with boxy clutch bag

Photo Credit: News.com.au

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From her days on the Upper East Side, there certainly must have been some fringe benefits to receiving an on-set style education. Blake Lively looks sexy and glamorous!

Buying a Luxury Bag: Top Tips

  • When it comes to choosing between classic designer handbags, go for the style that most represents you – that way your love affair with this special piece will last.
  • Use your handbag choice to complement or clash with your look; remember, your accessories can change the whole vibe of your outfit.
  • Some of our favourite celebrities really know how to pick the right handbag and what to wear it with. It’s all about conscious styling and having some fun while you’re at it!
  • Keep an eye on the exciting new pieces coming out this season, like Chanel’s Gabrielle Bag.

The perfect bag really does come in all shapes and sizes, and we hope this guide has given you some inspiration and ideas for when you start shopping for your next investment piece.

Read more great articles on women’s fashion here at alexie.co.

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