17 of the Most Classic Designer Bags of All Time

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Here at T&C, we strongly believe that every woman should have at least one designer bag in her purse collection. But not just any designer bag: one that transcends style trends, stands the test of time, gets good mileage for years to come—something like an Hermès Birkin. So, in other words, a classic. Whether that be a crossbody she can wear everyday, a tote for the office, a clutch for formal fetes, or straw bag for summer, the options are aplenty.

To help gear you in the right direction, our editors teamed up to curate a list of the best designer bags from the most iconic luxury houses, including Gucci, Chanel, Prada, and Loewe. Ahead, you'll find a range of different styles for every taste and personality.

Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag

Gucci's horsebit hardware will never go out of style. T&C's Deputy Digital Lifestyle Director Roxanne Adamiyatt loves her Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag and describes it as the "one bag to rule them all."

"When it comes to this bag, the versatility speaks for itself," she explains. "And the details, both the horsebit on the front, and the two on each side of the straps, are really the only flourishes of the piece—and those really are enough. It's got a little something to make sure it feels special, but it doesn't scream at you."

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 9.8"W x 7"H x 3.1"D

Classic Flap Bag

Between the signature intertwining C logo, leather quilting, and chain straps, the Chanel Flap Bag is as classic as it gets. It's certainly an investment, but one that'll pay off since you'll wear it forever and with everything.

Someone gifted me one over the holidays a few years ago, and I can say with full confidence it's always my first choice for any event on my calendar.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 6 × 9.9 × 2.5 in

Small Lady Dior Bag

The Lady Dior was Princess Diana's favorite bag, and that alone says a lot. With its sleek quilted look and elegant top handle silhouette, this mini stunner is the perfect complement to all kinds of outfits. It comes in the classic shades (black, beige, etc), but we recommend this bold red for the lady who isn't afraid to make a statement.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 8" x 6.5" x 3"

Mini Flamenco Clutch

The Flamenco has been a staple style since its debut in 1984. Featuring a gathered trim (inspired by the fluidity of a flamenco dancer's dress, of course) and coiled drawstrings, the clutch can be carried under your wing or as a crossbody. And the color options? Let's just say you'll want to splurge on one of each.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 7.1" x 9.4" x 3.5"

Large Galleria Leather Bag

While the Galleria was only introduced in 2007, it has quickly earned its spot as one of the most iconic designer totes around. Crafted from smooth Napa leather, the structured carrier is perfect tote for the businesswoman who's constantly on the go.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 22 x 32 x 13 cm

Jodie Mini Knotted Intrecciato Leather Tote

Who doesn't covet a bag with Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato weaving? The Jodie comes in a rainbow of pretty colors (but we're partial to this caramel) and is a surefire way to add texture to your look.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 9.8" x 5.1" x 1.2"

Medium Ai Shoulder Bag

When you buy an Akris AI, you're actually buying three styles since it can be carried as a trapezoidal tote (as shown here), a rectangular shopper, or a regular tote. If that isn't a bang for your buck, I don't know what is!

Material: Raffia & leather

Dimensions: 47 x 31 x 13 cm

Peekaboo ISeeU Small

For the lady who already has a well-stocked designer collection but maybe wants something a bit different, Fendi's Peekaboo in this lemony hue is sure to stand out from the rest. Just imagine how pretty it'll look in the crook of her arms this summer? I rest my case.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 27 x 21 x 11 cm

Cassette Medium Padded Intrecciato Leather Shoulder Bag

Once again, proof that BV's Intrecciato weaves look good on everything.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 10.6" x 6.7" x 3.1"

Speedy Bandoulière 25

Is this really a classic designer bag roundup without a Louis Vuitton style? The Speedy with the maison's famous monogram canvas is perfect for the logo-obsessed.

Material: Canvas

Dimensions: 9.8" x 7.5" x 5.9"

Small Bale Bag

For the minimalist gal, we couldn't think of a better style than Loro Piana's Bale. Crafted from the finest Italian leather (we'd expect nothing less from the maison), the top-handle bag comes in an array of pretty pastel colors and can even be converted into a crossbody. Classic doesn't even begin to cut it.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 6.7" x 6.7" x 8.3"

Crochet Tote Bag

If there's one bag to carry on your next getaway, it's Prada crochet tote. Just ask T&C's Fashion and Accessories Director Dania Lucero Ortiz.

"Thanks to its simple yet effective design, packing for a holiday has become almost as breezy as the summery feel of this tote," she says. "With enough space for my laptop, water and snacks, and all of my other essentials—I'm never stressed when choosing what to bring with me when I head out the door. And because of the knit it packs flat, so its an easy breezy addition to a suitcase."

Material: Crochet

Dimensions: 38 x 36 x 3 cm

Jackie Small Shoulder Bag

This is the modern version of Jackie O.'s favorite bag. Need we say more?

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 10.8" x 7.5" x 1.6"

Small Puzzle Bag

Want to make a statement without a loud color? Loewe's structural cuboid bag in this toffee shade will do the trick.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 6.5" x 9.4" x 4.1"

Soft Margaux 12 Bag in Leather

The Row's Margaux is relatively new, but judging by the FYP, it's shaping up to a modern classic because it can go from breakfast meeting to boardroom to dinner without a second thought.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 12" x 9" x 7.5"

Le City Medium Bag

Slightly slouchy and oversized, the Balenciaga Le City is a bag that lives up to its name. Commute with it to work, take it with you for brunch, this purse can go everywhere.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 14.6" 9.2" x 5.9

Marcie Small Saddle Bag

Whether you're running errands, meeting the ladies for lunch, or sightseeing in a new city, Chloe's Marcie is a great take-anywhere companion.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 7.1" x 6.7" x 3.9"

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