Invest in the ultimate luxe life with fashion’s perennial favourite ‘It’ bags that have stood the test of time, and how!
It is rather fascinating and enthralling how a commodity invented for purely utilitarian purposes went on to become luxury fashion’s most valued asset. Today, luxury bags from esteemed global brands yield a whopping resale value even after years post its purchase date. Depending on the condition of the product and the rarity of its design, these bags can be passed down from one generation to the other, making them an investment avenue worth your while. However, it is essential to note that not all bags designed by luxury fashion houses gain the reputation of an ‘It’ bag. It is a known fact to anyone with a keen eye for trends that their transient nature is what makes them so unique. The same goes for ‘It’ bags; the hottest bags keep changing from season to season. However, there are some classic pieces that have stood the test of time, earning an iconic status. So no matter how many fads come and go, they will always retain their valuable status supported by a historic success that still continues to grow.
So, what is an ‘It’ bag, you ask?
In the world of fading luxury fashion fads, an ‘It’ bag is the one that has created history with its unique design, successfully capturing the zeitgeist of its time and beyond. Most of the ‘It’ bags we see today were designed in the 1950s, during the early days of today’s most mammoth fashion houses. However, it was only in the nineties that the term was eulogised and embraced by pop culture and royalty alike. But being a bestseller is not enough for a bag to claim the tag of an ‘It’ bag. Its design, shape and craftsmanship should be of immaculate quality and in tandem with the fervour of the current times – yet exhibiting a sense of timelessness. An ‘It’ bag needs to be set apart from any other model by a defining factor that is unique to its identity. Fendi’s Baguette is the perfect example of this, distinguished by a delicate mini size that was a refreshing shift from oversized utilitarian bags. So if you are a dedicated admirer or collector of timeless luxury valuables, this is the ultimate list of ‘It’ bags that will remain forever classics but will also add value to your closet, quite literally.
CHANEL
11.12 The Classic Handbag
A monogram clutch for the ages, the CHANEL quilted bag was the global luxury brand’s first-ever handbag to have the signature double C clasp. This OG version has been revamped numerous times every season, ever since its discovery. The CHANEL 11.12 is actually a reiteration of the 2.55 style that was created in 1955 by Gabrielle Chanel, further evolved by Karl Lagerfeld. However, the double C lock and an elegant chain interlaced with leather straps is what sets the 11.12 model apart from its predecessor. Also known as the Chanel Classic Flap, it is widely popular for its compact size and timeless design. While the diamond quilting and sleek shoulder straps give it a svelte look, its compartmentalised pockets make it perennially functional. In the world of luxury ‘It’ bags, the CHANEL 11.12 holds an iconic status – a testament to excellent craftsmanship & understated style.
DIOR
Saddle Bag
As the name suggests, this iconic bag’s shape mimics a horse saddle, attached with the brand’s signature metal D charm hanging from the flap. What was introduced by Dior’s former director, John Galliano, as a part of the spring/summer 2000 collection became a cult favourite. Maria Grazia Chiuri modified the design further during the unveiling of her fall/winter 2018 lineup. The noughties ‘It’ bag was a favourite amongst famous fashion personalities like Paris Hilton, Sienna Miller and Carry Bradshaw (played by Sarah Jessica Parker) in Sex and the City. From Dior’s iconic grained calfskin and newspaper print to patch embroideries, the Saddle Bag is available in various designs that cater to different sensibilities. The brand’s newly launched versions offer straps that allow users to carry it as a cross-body accessory. Along with that, Chiuri’s revamp also provides a larger storage space, making it a utilitarian luxury investment.
GUCCI
1955 Horsebit Shoulder Bag
Another hit from one of the world’s most recognisable brand’s past catalogue – this bag is characterised by Gucci’s iconic metal rings resembling a horse’s bridle. First created in 1953 by Guccio Gucci’s sons as an accessory for footwear, the horsebit was featured on a bag for the first time in 1955. This vintage hardware, which is now considered the brand’s signature element, was inspired by Guccio Gucci’s love for horse riding fashion. While the original Horsebit bag had a leather top handle, a chain was added later, and Tom Ford redesigned it with a supersized version of the emblem for the autumn/winter 2003 show. After twenty years, it received another makeover, featuring a quilted design and a plethora of playful colours. Whether you opt for the traditional model or the chain design, the Gucci 1955 Horsebit bag will always remain iconic, and if you are lucky enough you might just find a preloved original design from their vintage archives!
Prada
Cleo Bag
Relatively new on the ‘It’ bag-wagon is the PRADA Cleo arm candy that was launched during spring/summer 2021 lineup – The Show That Never Happened. A sleek iteration of the hobo bag featuring a glazed leather finish, this design is a perfect balance of cool and classic sensibilities. The Cleo bag is also available in two variations, one with a discreet chain and another with a flap opening. While the classic black and white variations of the ‘It’ bag are notably far-famed, its bedazzling variants studded with crystals are perfect for fashion fanatics who like a little bit of shimmer and shine. What makes the PRADA Cleo bag a timeless investment is its classic design, compact shape, and versatility, ensuring you can dress it up for glam occasions and down for laid-back brunch dates.
HERMÈS
Birkin
The result of an unexpected encounter on a flight from Paris to London – the Birkin needs no introduction! Aptly suggested from its name, the bag was especially designed for British and French actress Jane Birkin. While seated next to the then Hermès’ Executive Chairman Jean-Louis Dumas (1978-2006), Jane – a young mother at the time – expressed how she couldn’t find a bag that could fit all her essentials. It was then that Mr. Dumas immediately showed her a rough sketch of the first-ever Birkin to be made with a dedicated space for her baby’s bottles. Devoid of any logos or flashy design, the Birkin’s design is representative of utility and quiet elegance. And yet, it is one of the bags with the highest resale value, even forty years after its discovery. Though it did not gain immediate recognition back then, it gained considerable momentum by the late nineties.
LOUIS VUITTON
Neverfull MM
Coming from a brand that has historically mastered the art of making leather goods, Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull MM is an ‘It’ bag for the ages. The bag’s unique selling point is its impressive space – quite explicitly suggested by its name. Devoid of any additional compartments or chains, the open handbag is so spacious that no matter what you keep in it, it is never full! Shove in your makeup pouch, purse, water bottle and even then, there will be space for more. It also comes with a removable pouch that can be used singularly as a purse. The utilitarian tote features a monogram canvas and sleek double top-handle, which makes it worthy of your investment. Invented in 2007, this iconic design quickly caught every bag connoisseur’s attention because of its versatility. Make it your travel companion or incorporate it as a statement piece in your everyday closet.
