So we recently received an e-mail from Leah, who had a burning accessory question:
“I’m looking for a handbag I can carry daily, has plenty of style, and is practical. Do you think it would be a good investment to purchase a Louis Vuitton Speedy?“
Yes, but there are plenty of practical, stylish bags to choose from! If you too need some handbag help, read below for…
The Fashion Bomb’s Guide to Investment Bags for every budget!
High Range: $700+
Meticulous craftsmanship and top of the line materials mean that these bags have high price points. Rest assured, however, that you can wear them everywhere–and pass them down for generations!
Louis Vuitton Speedy, $700+:
Whether in camouflage, damier, or monogram, the classic Speedy is infinitely versatile. Wear it to go shopping in jeans, like Brandy, or dress up a black shift for a day at work.
Chanel 2.55 Quilted Bag, $1,000+:
Chanel’s Quilted handbag has infinite ‘pass down’ potential, and should be apart of every fashionista’s wardrobe. It might not be for every day use, but you’ll tap this bag for nights on the town and weekend excursions.
Yves Saint Laurent Muse, $800+:
Introduced only two years ago, the Muse is the perfect luxury bag for the career woman–roomy enough for your magazines, yet elegant enough to make a splash.
Balenciaga Motorcycle Le Dix Bag, $1,000 :
Celebrities flock to the Balenciaga bag for its hanging tassles and one of a kind shape–it’s quintessentially classic with a bit of edge!
Gucci Boston Bag, $630:
Gucci has plenty of classics (Jackie O anyone?), but the Boston bag has a particularly cute shape. Whether vintage or brand spanking new, you’ll look polished and tasteful.
Now for…
Mid Range: $300-600
Expect to pay at least $300 for quality leather–expensive, but you’ll get lots of bang for your buck. These brands are known for offering a variety of styles, bright colors, and look-at-me hardware:
Coach Totes ($300+): Coach handbags carry a legacy of fine materials and high quality fabrics, and is one of America’s most notable luxury lifestyle brands:
Top Row: Parker Leather Satchel, $458; Leather Large Sabrina, $498. Bottom Row: Penelope Leather Shopper, $348; New Patent Zoe, $428.
Kooba Leather Hobos ($327-$645): Don’t want to blend in? Kooba bags are known for their distinct styles, dominant hardware, and hot colors like pink and yellow:
Top Row: Kooba Tess Hobo, $575; Kooba Ryder Tote, $595. Bottom Row: Kooba Isabella Shoulder Bag, $327; Kooba Katy Medium Satchel, $387.
Botkier ($400-$600): Inspried by urban chic, Botkier bags are perfect for the busy woman on the go:
Top Row: James Tote, $650; Bianca Medium Satchel, $357. Bottom Row: James Satchel, $595; Sasha Small Duffel, $345.
Foley + Corinna ($420-$600): These have a cultlike following amongst New York Magazine Editors, who flock to them for their unmistakable style and no nonsense design:
Top Row: Bender Bag, $485; Jet Setter Junior, $422. Bottom Row: Glazed Leather City Tote, $485.
Other great brands in this price range include Cole Haan and Marc by Marc Jacobs.
Last, but not least…
Low Range: $300 and Under
These might not be as eye catching as the above options, but they’re relatively affordable–perfect for these lean times:
DKNY ($200-$350): Donna Karan accessories are cute and functional while encompassing the fashionable DKNY spirit:
Top Row: Urban Fusion Large Shopper, $245; Nappa Leather Hobo, $200. Bottom Row: Vintage Small Leather Sack, $285.
The Sak ($100-$200): The Sak has transitioned from woven to leather designs with panache:
Left to Right: Silverlake Leather Convertible Satchel, $199. Gen Signature Leather Hobo Bag, $109.
Kenneth Cole ($80-$400): While Mr. Cole shines as a shoe god, his handbags are also fashionable and funky. Canvas or leather–you’ll make an impression:
Top Row: Slick or Treat Shopper, $89; Hard to Pleats Hobo, $248. Bottom Row: New York Pleat Week, $260; Shoulder Service Bag, $242.
What is your go to investment bag?
