The 25 Best Handbag Brands, According to a Fashion Editor

If you're a woman with a heart that beats for fashion, then it's likely you have a not-so-guilty preference for one particular type of fashion item. Some girls can't resist a new pair of earrings, others find the allure of a fresh jumper all too tempting to avoid. I'd say I'm a “shoe person” and have little to no control when I stumble upon a pair of heels that talk to my innermost desires.Conversely, being a shoe person has made me really good at buying bags (let me explain). Since I'll fall for almost any fancy piece of footwear that looks at me the right way, I’m far more discerning when it comes to handbags.

Best handbag brands: carrying the white pearl Antonia bag from Shrimps

Photo:

Michaela Efford

Carrying a new bag brand called Mandel at London Fashion Week

This means I'm fussy in many ways. My bags have to be versatile, well-made, current and yet with the potential to last season after season. I don't love them unconditionally just because they're new or pretty; they have to earn a place in my wardrobe. As such, I've become well acquainted with some of the best handbag bags in the business.

From affordable options that genuinely look more expensive (and won't fall apart after a few wears) to the designer names that are actually worth spending your paycheque on, these are my recommendations for every handbag category…

Best Luxury Handbag Brands

This is my favourite little black bag. It's by Prada and goes with every work outfit.

First things first: If you're going to spend big bucks, please do so on something that will last. I'm not into putting down a wad of cash on something that will only look current for a season—my clothes, bags and shoes all have to work hard for the money.

With that in mind, I think there are certain luxury brands that are renowned for their top-quality leather goods as well as being able to tap into the fashion zeitgeist and produce something that feels at once current and timeless. Clever.

This designer handbag list could go on forever because it's such a competitive market and there are so many options available, but I have narrowed it down to a mere six to help in your search.

1. Prada

Prada Small Saffiano Leather Double Prada Bag

Prada does trend-smashing options as well as it does classics. I'm a big fan of the brand's hardwearing Saffiano leather (that's like a textured high-shine finish) when it comes to choosing a quality day bag you want to carry non-stop.

2. Bottega Veneta