The Most Luxirious Handbags Ever Made

By Catherine Santino

The Most Luxurious Handbags Ever Made

Handbags are about so much more than utility in the fashion world- they are a statement. They become status symbols representative of a specific time in fashion history. Let’s take a look back at a few that made some serious waves in trends...

1. The Birkin Bag 

Created by Hermes in the early 1980s, the name “Birkin” actually refers to actress Jane Birkin, who was seated next to a Hermes executive on an airplane and complained of not being able to find the right size weekend bag. The Birkin bag will probably go down in history as the most recognizable handbag in the world (despite its trademark lack of logos- which I find amazing). I mean, even a person who is not interested in fashion whatsoever will recognize the words “Birkin bag.” The Birkin became so popular that it had once had a waiting list of up to 6 years! (We all remember that episode of Sex and the City, right?). To see the luxury handbags inspired by fashion icons, click here.

Jane Birkin--
British fashion icon who inspired the Hermes Birkin bag

A parody about the Birkin bag in Sex and the City

2. Chanel 2.55 

This bag is iconic because of the long straps introduced by Coco Chanel in the 1920s. She was searching for a way to free up her hands when carrying a handbag; and clearly she had the modern woman in mind. Nowadays, I can’t imagine owning a purse (besides a clutch) that didn’t fit easily onto my shoulder. This bag has seen many variations and colors, but the style of the bag was an instant classic.

Chanel 2.55

3. Fendi Baguette

This bag hit the scene in the late 1990s, and is a classic example of statement over functionality. It can barely hold your wallet and keys, but become such an iconic fashion choice that women everywhere were being seen with this bag (or this style of bag). 

Fendi baguette

4. Chloe Paddington 

This bag hit its fame in the mid-2000s, and like the Birkin, was available only through extensive waiting lists. It’s trademark design includes slouchy material, thick straps, and a padlock. It emerged during the emerging bohemian trend of the 2000s, and became to be considered one of the fastest selling handbags in history. 

Chloe Paddington

There you have it, 4 of the most luxurious handbags of all time. If you’re like me, you can only afford to admire these bags from afar. But don’t worry, these iconic fashion trends have inspired many different brands far and wide- including ones that you can afford! For a list of chic alternatives to luxury handbags, click here.