Designer handbags come with a higher price tag, but when you buy a luxury purse you need to look at it as an investment. Due to the quality of the material and craftsmanship most high-end purses last longer, costing you less over time. Designer handbags are a powerful status symbol among women. If you choose to purchase a classic design, it won’t go out of style, and if you tire of the purse, designer bags retain a portion of their original value, so you can resell the item.

These iconic handbag designers have stood the test of time and are great additions to any women’s closet:

1. Chanel
First introduced in 1929, Chanel is an icon piece. Their debut of the flap bag revolutionized fashion history. Popular styles include:

• The Boy Bag: One of their most sought after bags, its classic details include its bold shape, unique lock and heavy hardware.
• 2.55 Quilted Bag: Introduced in 1955, at the time the strap was revolutionary in a clutch dominated world. The purse is still fashionable today and offers women a great day-to-day option.
• The WOC: The Wallet on Chain, the name says it all for this bag that comes in a variety of price ranges, colors and finishes.

2. Christian Dior
The French company is commonly known as Dior, meaning luxury goods. Statement purses:

• Dior Le 30 Medium Tote: One of their most affordable, and best-sellers, it offers hand-stitched leather and chain bag accessories.
• Dior Babe Python Frame: The python skin bag is not your everyday bag, but this ionic purse is a definite statement piece.
• Dior (r)evolution bag: A contemporary piece catered to the younger Dior buyer.

3. Coach
Founded in Manhattan in the 1940’s the company offers a variety of materials including leather, canvas and vinyl. Typically classic patterns, the do often get a little edgier in their prints. Popular options include:

• Crossbody: Single, adjustable strap purse with a buckle. They are great for the farmer’s market and weekend activities.
• Satchel: With some structure these purses offer a lot of zippers and compartments for storage.
• Tote: These Coach bags are great for your laptop and work, the larger versions work well for a weekend or at the beach.

4. Gucci
As World War II imposed leather sanctions, Guccio Gucci began to explore alternative materials such as hemp and cotton, and the now-iconic tonal-brown patterned GG canvas was born. They are known for:

• Dionysus: A tiger head closure in antique silver hardware, four pockets and an internal compartment with a zipper, suede lining and hand-painted edges, and finally with a sliding chain strap are samples of this purse.
• GG Marmont: An absolute beauty thanks to the iconic chevron quilting and rich colors. It is versatile and able to be worn for any occasion.
• Padlock: The Padlock features a key lock closure which was inspired by the company’s travel trunks.

5. Louis Vuitton
Started as a luggage company in France in the 1800s, everything about Louis Vuitton bags highlights classic style in these designs:

• Speedy bag: Available in various sizes this is one of their most popular bags. They often release limited time and holiday prints.
• Neverfull Bag: The roomy purse is great for the office and shopping. The wide and deep options provide a lot of storage capacity.
• SC Bag: Debuted in 2007 and still very popular with celebrities.