The 10 Most Iconic Designer Bags of All Time

Some bags are more than accessories: they define an era. These ten designs have been loved for decades, and many are easier to find, and more affordable, on the pre-owned market than in the boutique.

1. Hermès Birkin

Created in 1984 for Jane Birkin, the Birkin is the ultimate symbol of luxury: handmade, roomy and famously hard to buy new. Read how it compares to the Kelly in our Birkin vs. Kelly guide.

2. Hermès Kelly

Structured and elegant, the Kelly dates back to the 1930s and was renamed after Grace Kelly in 1977. Its single handle and shoulder strap make it more versatile than many people expect.

3. Chanel 2.55 and Classic Flap

The quilted 2.55 was introduced in February 1955; the Classic Flap with its CC lock followed in the 1980s. Together they are the most recognisable bags in the world. See our Chanel buying guide.

4. Louis Vuitton Speedy

The Speedy has been a travel and city companion since the 1930s. In Monogram or Damier canvas it is practically indestructible, which makes it one of the best pre-owned buys.

5. Louis Vuitton Neverfull

Launched in 2007, the Neverfull quickly became one of the best-selling totes ever: light, roomy and easy to wear every day.

6. Lady Dior

Created in the mid-1990s and named after Princess Diana, who loved it, the Lady Dior is instantly recognisable by its cannage stitching and dangling D.I.O.R. charms.

7. Dior Saddle

John Galliano's kidney-shaped Saddle bag from 2000 was a cult object of the early 2000s and is hugely popular again today.

8. Fendi Baguette

Designed in 1997 to be worn tucked under the arm like a French baguette, it became a pop-culture icon thanks to television and celebrities.

9. Gucci Jackie

The slouchy hobo from the early 1960s owes its name to Jacqueline Kennedy. Discover more Gucci icons in our vintage Gucci guide.

10. Prada nylon backpack

In 1984 Prada turned industrial nylon into luxury. The nylon backpack and its successors made practical, lightweight bags fashionable.

Honourable mentions

• Chanel Boy: a more rugged take on the Classic Flap, with a chunky chain and a boxy shape.
• Louis Vuitton Alma: the structured, dome-shaped top-handle bag inspired by an Art Deco design from the 1930s.
• Bottega Veneta Intrecciato: woven leather without a visible logo, the essence of understated luxury.
• Celine Luggage: the smiling face of the 2010s, practical and instantly recognisable.
• Prada Galleria: a structured Saffiano leather tote that works perfectly for the office.

How to choose between the icons

• For everyday use: a Neverfull, Speedy or Jackie carries everything and is easy to wear.
• For the office: a Birkin, Kelly, Alma or Galleria looks polished and holds documents.
• For evenings out: a Classic Flap, Lady Dior or Baguette adds instant glamour.
• For a casual, sporty look: the Prada nylon backpack or a Dior Saddle.

Not sure which size to choose? Our guide to mini bags and which Louis Vuitton bag is right for you help you decide.

Why buy an icon pre-owned?

Iconic bags are built to last, so a well-kept pre-owned piece can serve you for many years. You often pay considerably less than in the boutique, you can find discontinued colours and vintage versions that are no longer made, and you give an existing bag a second life. Many icons are also known for holding their value well.

Find your icon

Every one of these houses is in our collection: Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Fendi, Gucci and Prada. All items are checked for authenticity and graded with a clear condition rank.