Refresh: The 10 Best Investment Bags Worth Buying

The Best Bang For Your Hard-Earned Bucks
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The 10 Best Investment Bags Worth Buying, @waitingonmartha

Ah, designer hand bags. I recently remembered my love-hate relationship with them, with all their gorgeousness that I just HAVE to have and allllll those high price tags.  I had forgotten just how expensive they really were…I mean wow. 

Fortunately, what I’ve found over the years is that you really do get what you pay for when it comes to the best investment bags.  The go-to brands (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Celine, Mansur Gavriel, etc.) know what they’re doing; expert craftsmanship, high quality leather and strong hardware that will withstand more than a few wears and transcend season after season in effortless style.  

Since you’re probably buying your handbags with your hard-earned cash money, you’ll want to stick to the tried-and-true brands and styles that will give you the most bang for your buck.  I like to think I’ve figured out (and learned a few lessons the hard way) about which bags are completely worth it. 

I’m sharing a few of my favorites in the scrolling widget below, but going into full detail about why they’re worth the big bucks in the breakdown as well.  Tell me, which bags would you add to the list?  Which ones are you lusting after?!  Truly, MKR

SHOP THE STORY / CLICK LEFT & RIGHT ARROWS TO EXPLORE

 

The Practically Indestructible Throw-It-All-In Tote

Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote (Pre-Owned)

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There’s something to be said for a practically indestructible tote bag that you can have for years and years (and years).  I’ve literally had my LV Neverfull for going on 12 years, and I throw just about everything I own into it on a daily basis: tennis shoes, makeup, laptop…you name it. It’s one of those bags I don’t have to worry about, and for that, it tops my list for best investment bags always and forever. 

Another noteworthy bag under this category: my Goyard coated canvas tote bag.  I carry that thing every. where. 

The "Boss Bag"

Celine Phantom Leather Hand Bag (Pre-Owned)

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Nothing beats having a true “Boss Bag.” You just…feel like a boss when you’re carrying it!  To me, Celine Phantom bags are the end-all-be-all of “Boss Bags.” Again, you can throw a TON of stuff inside (the bag is big) and it’s really durable.  An important thing to look for when investing in a bag like this is the pebbled leather; it will last longer than suede or nubuck. The pebbled leather takes wear (and stains and spills) better than anything softer. 

The Bucket Bag

Mansur Gavriel Saffiano Large Bucket Bag

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Bucket bags are perhaps some of my favorites (as I’m sure you’ve seen in countless outfit posts on here). I believe that Mansur Gavriel bucket bags are simply the best, too.  With smooth, shiny Italian leather, they’re timeless and sturdy.  They include an adjustable flat leather strap, along with leather a drawstring closure to keep everything safe inside. 

They make a GREAT option for traveling, and are super easy to throw over your shoulder (or crossbody) for safe keeping. And can we talk about how cute the mini version is, HERE?! 

The Shoulder Bag That Goes With Everything

Gucci Soho Leather Shoulder Bag

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When a tote bag or shoulder bag is just too much, I turn to my Gucci shoulder bag (as pictured above; I have the tan version). This bag literally goes with every outfit, from fancy to formal to even your favorite yoga pants.  I’d highly recommend this shoulder bag in particular to anyone looking to invest in a medium size bag that won’t EVER go out of style. 

The Easy Crossbody

Chloe Marcie Mini Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag

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Everyday runarounds, summer concerts and trips…you’ll want an easy crossbody bag that will stand the test of time (and work around the seasons).  Enter the Chloe Marci Mini, another must-have in dependable pebbled leather and exquisite attention to detail.  It’s the perfect bag that can channel boho vibes while still being a truly beautiful, upscale accessory. Comes in a ton of colors too! 

The Statement Clutch

Lizzie Fortunato Safari Clutch in Cuban Hibiscus

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I’m a firm believer in not playing it safe. I know that’s easier said than done when it comes to investing in expensive handbags.  But I stick to this rule of thumb when it comes to clutches; they’re the perfect small (yet big) statement to any outfit.  They just always spice things up, and they don’t have to match! 

I love anything and everything by the Lizzie Fortunato sisters, and this gorgeous embroidered safari clutch is right up my alley. 

The Ultimate Everyday Satchel

Givenchy Nightingale Medium Satchel

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In my humble opinion, Givenchy makes some of the best everyday satchels.  They’re understated, timeless and simply above the rest.  That’s why I’m a huge fan of the Nightingale Medium Satchel. It’s not loud, in-your-face or obvious, and because of that, it’s impressive. 

Again, this one is pure quality; waxy calf leather with palladium hardware will take a beating better than a lot of others in its price range. Not to mention, it’s just such a pretty bag! 

And FYI, this tan style is on MAJOR sale right now.

The Simple Tote

Clare V.

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Nothing beats a classic, simple leather tote bag.  This one is roomy enough to get you through the day’s tasks, and it has metal feet that give it more stability than most others. It also includes a lined, 1-pocket interior and an optional shoulder strap. 

Sturdy cowhide make The Simple Tote a dependable choice, and the painted stripe adds just the right amount of tasteful flair that we’ve come to know and love from Clare V. 

The Work Bag

MCM Markus Leather Brief

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While I like to use my tote bags typically for work functions, I do appreciate a good work bag (read: laptop bag) when needed. This one is spacious enough to easily fit a laptop plus a few things, and won’t run the risk of everything getting all jumbled up and lost like it may in a larger bag. The structured pebbled leather is simply gorgeous, and I’m a huge fan of the navy leather covered canvas. Again, this is one is very understated high-quality statement to make in a board room, on your commute and beyond. 

The Great Mid-Price Bag

ZAC Zac Posen 'Eartha Jumbo' Double Handle Satchel

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It’s hard to find a good hand bag that’s mid-range in price.  Believe me, I’ve searched.  That’s why I’m loyal to ZAC Zac Posen bags.  The vintage-inspired yet modern feel and good craftsmanship make the bags (especially the ‘Eartha Jumbo’ Satchel) some of my go-to’s all year ’round.  They’re truly beautiful bags that look well above their price point. 

ADDITIONAL CREDITS:

Featured image, Haley Sheffield for Waiting on Martha

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  • Have you tried Matt and Kim? They make great bags.

  • Hi Mandy!
    I have enjoyed your website for a long time. I have just recently started working with India Hicks and it completely reminds me of you and your style:) Check it out! I love it! And I too went to Bradley:) Love that place too:)
    Happy Thursday!
    Paige

  • Lauren / 01.19.2017

    This post is exactly what i’ve been looking for! i’ve been saving to splurge on an investment bag, but hesitant to take the plunge. Thank you for your insight and opinions on the bags that have worked for you! 🙂

  • Can absolutely attest to Clare V. bags. Have two clutches and a larger handbag in vegan leather. Some of the best investment pieces I’ve purchased!

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