An interesting phenomenon is happening; during the pandemic, luxury fashion brands have seen a huge increase in sales of their classic heritage bags. In other words, in 2021, besides wanting easy to wear clothes, women are investing more in timeless designer bags than on trendy and more affordable ones. Although it may seem surprising since we haven’t had many opportunities to use our handbags lately, this shift makes total sense in our Zeitgeist.

Last year showed us that sustainability and conscious shopping are more than fickle trends, and we want to change our habits. That is to say; we’re are longing for a simpler life. So, instead of buying several trend-led items, we prefer to buy less but shop better. Especially when it comes to designer bags, consumers are going for high-quality materials and timeless designs that will last beyond 2021. So it’s no surprise that fashion houses like Gucci, Chanel and Givenchy, for example, are revisiting their all-time favourite models.

To sum up, here are the bags we want to have and cherish for years to come. Our editors select independently all products featured on Notorious-mag. However, when you buy through our links, we may get a commission.

Prada

Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons presented the Cleo bag for s/s 2021, their first co-created collection. As a result, the ’90s-style minimalist bag was an instant hit among stylists and Instagrammers, and many colours are already sold out. Cleo will be here for the long run, similarly to Tessuto, the shoulder bag in Prada’s signature nylon.

Miu Miu

The designer bags with a nostalgic feel come with Miu Miu‘s signature matelassé quilting in the s/s 2021 collection. Certainly, this year, the beautiful bags come in various colours, including powder pink and white, perfect for spring.

Givenchy

Givenchy’s Antigona handbag is already an icon. But the fashion house’s creative director, Matthew Williams, presented for 2021 a new version with longer handles. Additionally, the silhouette of this designer bag is sleek and practical, a super wearable piece for 2021.

Gucci

2021 is seeing the comeback of one of the most long-standing bags ever, the iconic Jackie. Gucci’s heritage handbag was named after Jacqueline Kennedy and first appeared in the ’50s. Its success was absolute, especially in the ’70s, and the Italian fashion house has repeatedly revisited the iconic bag. For instance, Alessandro Michele’s just brought back the cool model in different sizes and materials.

Chanel

Chanel bags are the luxury designer bags par excellence, and in 2021, we still want the house’s iconic Flap bag. Although pricey, it is an investment worth making since the model continues on-point after all these years. Consequently, you can find the luxurious Flap bag in the best second-hand online platforms and shops.

Valentino

Valentino’s Creative Director, Pierpaolo Piccioli, brought the Italian fashion house’s signature studs again. As a result, in the Resort 2021 collection, the luxury designer bags come in bubblegum pink and white, with statement gold chains.

Loewe

The giant online retailer Net-a-Porter has reported an increase in sales of the iconic Puzzle and Flamenco bags. To clarify, both models are big hits of the Spanish luxury brand Loewe. Moreover, the Flamenco tote and mini bag come in beautiful pastel colours for Spring 2021.

Mulberry

Mulberry’s designs are classic and elegant. Whether you choose the Alexa or Iris, these are designer bags that you will carry for many years.

Bottega Veneta

Besides the famous woven leather bags, Bottega Veneta has new models with a sleeker design for its S/S and Resort 2021 collections. Above all, the chic bags come with a distinctive V for Veneta; the hardware embellishment is a subtle reference to the house codes.

Chloé

Chloé’s saddlebags are absolutely chic and timeless, and in 2021, the luxury designer bag is a must for fashion enthusiasts. Additionally, the tote Daria is another big favourite among fashion-savvy influencers.

Finally, stay with us and watch the surprising auction in Church’s new campaign.

Title photo courtesy of Valentino