15 Elegant Top Handle Bags That Elevate Any Look

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What is something Grace Kelly, Princess Diana, and Queen Elizabeth all had in common that wasn't royal-related? These three iconic women had a penchant for top-handle bags. Grace almost exclusively carried a legendary hand-held silhouette from Hermès (which was later named after her), Diana famously carried several styles throughout her lifetime (including the iconic Lady Dior), and the Queen was rarely ever seen without her Launer purse.

While crossbodies, hobos, and fanny packs have become the rage for their practicality and utilitarianism as of late, these women have proven years later there's something about carrying a bag the old-fashioned that exudes elegance. The top-handle purse is timeless, undeniably feminine, and instantly adds polish with whatever you're wearing and wherever your headed.

Today's styles range from vintage-inspired structured bags a la Grace and Diana, to micro totes that transition effortlessly from day to night, to elevated clutches for fancier fetes. Many are even designed with an attachable strap for wearing as a crossbody. All of which to say, there is shopping to be done! Ahead, 15 top-handle bags we can't get enough of.

Symmetry Pochette

From the elongated shape to the gold hardware at the front to the rich wine shade, everything about this Savette screams old-school elegance. And just think of all the ways you can style it... no wonder it tops our list.

Material: Calf leather

Dimensions: 9" L x 5" W x 3" D

Grace Box

Hermès's top-handle bag isn't the only style associated with Grace Kelly; this structured boxy number is the smaller version of the overnight case created for the actress-turned-princess in Rear Window, and it still looks just as chic in the 21st century.

Material: Calfskin leather

Dimensions: 7.5”L x 5.5”H x 3.5”W

Horsebit 1955 Mini Bag

Gucci's horsebit hardware makes everything look elevated, especially this top-handle purse that you can also wear as a crossbody bag. Sophisticated as can be.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 8.7"W x 6.3"H x 4.1"D

Small Leather Tote

When you need a rest from black, camel is your best bet. Consider this neutral trapezoidal-shaped top-handle with minimal details. Perfect for the quiet-luxury obsessive.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 6.3"H x 7.3"W x 2.6"D

Medium Lady Dior

Make like Princess Diana and get yourself a Lady Dior to wear with absolutely everything. You can dress a casual look up with it, or pair it with a a fancy outfit—this quilted mini tote is an icon for a reason.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 9.5"L x 8"H x 4.5"W

Kress

Or perhaps you fancy a bit of croc-embossed leather? This edgy (and reasonably affordable!) micro tote courtesy of Leatherology is the way to go. Get yours debossed with your initials for a personalized touch.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 6.7”W x 3”D x 5.5”H

Sofia Flap Top-Handle Bag in Calf Leather

Throw it over your wrist or wear it the traditional way by hand—either way, this sleek style is bound to be the star of every outfit.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 3.5"H x 6.1"W x 3.5"D

The Nano Montreal

This petite style is more than just a looker; it's perfectly proportioned to fit your phone, keys, cards, and other smaller daily essentials. What's more, it comes in various colors suited to every style and taste.

Material: Cowhide leather

Dimensions: 7.1” W x 4.7”H x 3.5”D

Knott Crocodile-Embossed Leather Tote Crossbody Bag

Not only is an ivory bucket-style top-handle purse a no-brainer for warmer days, but it's a fresh way to upgrade all your darker autumnal and winter looks too.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 9.8" W x 8.26" H x 5.5" D

Furla 1927

Bring 2023's hottest color of the year into 2024 with this textured Furla style that is positively fun, trendy, and bright.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 8.27" W x 6.3" H x 3.35" D

More: The Best Red Designer Bags

Bond Girl

Ever dreamed about being a Bond girl? Now's your chance with a ladylike and glamorous version of James Bond's classic Attaché Case.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 7.5" x 2.3" x 5.5"

Medium Mirrored Top Handle Skull Bag

This mirrored top-handle bag is anything but discreet. But that's the point: grab it when you want to turn heads all night long.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 9.5"L x 6"H x 2.5"D

Sardine Intrecciato Leather Top-Handle Bag

Bottega Veneta's iconic Intrecciato will always be a classic. Give the woven look a go in the form of the Sardine, which is a slouchy style with a statement hand-crafted chunky goldtone top-handle.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 13"W x 8"H x 1.5"D

Numéro Un Nano

There are times to dress simple and there are times to go all out. This smart top-handle tote will serve you for either moment.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 20.5cm x 17cm x 9cm

Nina Bag

With an orbital shape and structured handle, the Nina is anything but ordinary and what we like to call a conversation starter. No matter what you wear it with, this bag will definitely do the talking.

Material: Nappa leather

Dimensions: 6" H x 9" W x 7" D

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