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Let's Talk Designer Bags — Gift Ideas and Statement Pieces

Escrito por: Andrea Centeno

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Tiempo de lectura 7 min

Model at Celine 2024 F/W Fashion show


Bags are more than just a fashion accessory, designer bags are more than anything — they are pretty much a style declaration! This approaching holiday season, gifting yourself or your special someone a designer bag is undeniably a fantastic idea but it’s not always about the price to determine which one would be the perfect choice. Whether you go for a classic design or something more avant-garde, there’s definitely a designer piece to turn heads or even spark a conversation.


As you explore the world of designer bags before the year ends, here’s a simple guide to help you delve into defining your personal style or give you ideas on which designer bag would indulge your loved one’s lavish decadence. Let’s talk about why the right designer bag is much more than just an indulgence.

Designer Bag Collection

Defining Your Personal Style with the Right Bag

It doesn’t matter whether it’s as small as the LV Nano Speedy or as huge as the Gucci XL Tote Bag, a designer bag can speak volumes in terms of personal style. Which style gravitates toward your individuality? If you’re a minimalist, designer bags with more structure and clean lines should be the one for you. You’ll find the YSL Sunset Medium Crossbody bag and the Burberry Snip bag an exceptional match for your minimalist-loving persona. 


Now for someone who loves drama, something extravagant like the Versace Pink Velvet Medusa bag  and  Dolce & Gabbana’s Baroque Evening Clutch would absolutely enamour you (and everyone) in an instant. Whatever your fashion mantra is, the point is to find the designer piece that echoes your individuality. It all makes a difference rather than just picking something based on its price or brand.


Also, if you consider a designer bag that mirrors someone’s unique personality, it can be more than just a luxury gift, but also a gift that truly resonates.



Ningning with Versace
Source: @Versace

Top Designer Picks for Every Style

Model walking down runway at Hermes
Source: Instagram @Hermes
Model walking down Celine f/W 2024 Runway
Source: Instagram @Burberry

It’s easy to get lost in the vast world of designer bags. Believe me, it’s never an easy choice regardless if you're getting one for the first time or if it’s your 100th designer bag purchase. So the question is — where do you actually start? 


  •  The Classicist  - Timeless pieces that will never go out of trend. Think of simple but elegant designs that you can even probably pass through generations! The Hermès Birkin or Chanel Classic Flap Bag would be the iconic examples.

  •  The Fashion Icon - Statement pieces that will surely turn heads and have everyone’s eyes glued in awe! These are designer bags that are loud and eccentric and will get people asking “Where’d she get that!”. Check out Judith Leiber Crystal Minaudières or Stella McCartney Studded Falabella tote.

  •  The Professional - Functional pieces that not only look stylish but also very high-end — perfect for ambitious individuals thriving in their careers! Look for a Balenciaga Alligator Tote or Hermes Kelly 35. 

  •  The World Traveler - Spacious bags that can fit all your jetsetter essentials! In that case, your best match would be something like a Dior Book Tote or Karl Lagerfeld Tote Shoulder Bag. 

I know, it’s still not a superbly easy choice but it’s a good start to narrow down your options, right? Giving a designer bag as a gift for someone or for yourself this holiday season can be more than just a precious gift, but also a way to give someone something to cherish. I mean, who wouldn’t appreciate something knowing that you picked it according to your recipient’s personality?

Luxury Meets Functionality

Investing in luxurious designer bags doesn’t really have to mean that you have to compromise practicality. A designer bag crafted with functional features can be a thoughtful option too, especially if you’re planning to give it to someone who’s more into practical items or for someone who’s new to designer bags. It can be more than just an investment piece but also something useful for everyday wear.


Telfar’s Shopping Bag  garnered a cult following for its minimalist design, as well as its functional size. If you’d like something more versatile,  Chloé’s Marcie Bag can be a more unique and charming choice. It embraces a Bohemian design perfect for those with on-the-go lifestyles. If you like logos, then a classic Goyard Saint Louis Tote would be a valuable choice with an unpretentious aesthetic.


A functional designer bag involves prioritizing usability while still maintaining its lavish, high-end look. Isn’t that a perfect example of getting the best of both worlds?!

Designer Bags as Timeless Investments

A model at the Celine F/W 2024 Fashion show
Source: Chanel
Yayoi Kusama x Louis Vuitton
Source: Louis Vuitton

Apart from the fact that designer bags make beautiful and fashionable accessories, most of them often hold their value. Depending on the brand and design, they can even appreciate over time, which is exactly why they can also serve as financial investments on top of being iconic fashion staples. Let’s cite the Hermès Birkin or the Chanel 2.55 as examples of timeless designer pieces that have also become a popular investment among business people, collectors, and fashion enthusiasts.


In the last few decades, the value of a Birkin has increased by over a whopping 500% which apparently outperformed traditional financial investments such as gold. Limited edition designer collaborations and other rare pieces also fetch very impressive resale prices. These are some rare designer bags that have been proven as excellent investments such as:

  • Hermès Himalaya Birkin

  • Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama Collaboration Bags

  • Chanel Métiers d'ArtLimited Edition Bags


Don’t you think this reason alone is enough to convince you that you need a designer bag? It can totally be a personal purchase while also making a nice investment for yourself. Or, it can also be a gift to someone, making it even more sentimental and highly valuable. 

The Wrap Up

See? Getting yourself a designer bag or giving it to somebody is definitely more than just a splurge! There’s definitely more to it that can absolutely define your personal style and level up your fashion aesthetic. 

The allure of the right choice of designer bag definitely goes beyond just the money. It can carry emotional value that can also be passed down through generations! Think of a Chanel Classic Flap Bag that a grandparent can still pass on to her grandchild! 

Before you go, you may want to check out these festive-looking bags just in time for the holidays!

Why are designer bags more than just a fashion accessory?

Designer bags are more than accessories; they are style declarations. Whether you choose a classic piece or an avant-garde design, a designer bag speaks volumes about personal style and individuality, making it much more than just a luxury item.

What should I consider when gifting a designer bag this holiday season?

When gifting a designer bag, focus on the recipient’s personality and style. A minimalist might appreciate structured, clean designs like the YSL Sunset Crossbody or Burberry Snip Bag. For someone who loves drama, consider bold pieces like the Versace Pink Velvet Medusa Bag or Dolce & Gabbana Baroque Evening Clutch.

How can I choose the perfect designer bag for myself?

Start by identifying your personal style and needs. If you’re a first-time buyer or value practicality, opt for functional bags like the Telfar Shopping Bag or Chloé Marcie Bag. For timeless elegance, explore classics like the Hermès Birkin or Chanel Flap Bag.

Are designer bags good investment pieces?

Yes! Designer bags often hold their value and can even appreciate over time. Iconic pieces like the Hermès Birkin and Chanel 2.55 have seen significant value increases, making them both fashionable and financially savvy investments.

Which designer bags are suitable for specific personalities?

  • The Classicist: Timeless designs like the Hermès Birkin or Chanel Classic Flap Bag.
  • The Fashion Icon: Bold statement pieces like Judith Leiber Crystal Minaudières or Stella McCartney Falabella Tote.
  • The Professional: Functional yet stylish options like the Balenciaga Alligator Tote or Hermès Kelly 35.
  • The World Traveler: Spacious and chic bags like the Dior Book Tote or Karl Lagerfeld Shoulder Bag.

What are some rare designer bags that make excellent investments?

Highly sought-after investment pieces include:

  • Hermès Himalaya Birkin
  • Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama Collaboration Bags
  • Chanel Métiers d'Art Limited Edition Bags

How do designer bags appreciate in value?

The value of certain designer bags, like the Hermès Birkin, has risen significantly over the years. Limited editions and rare collaborations often fetch impressive resale prices, making them excellent long-term investments.

Can designer bags be both functional and luxurious?

Absolutely! Designer bags like the Goyard Saint Louis Tote and Chloé Marcie Bag combine practicality with high-end aesthetics, making them perfect for everyday use without compromising luxury.

Why is a designer bag a thoughtful gift?

A designer bag tailored to someone’s personality is more than a luxury item—it’s a meaningful gift that shows thoughtfulness and appreciation. Its lasting value and timeless appeal make it a cherished present.

Are there specific designer bags for different lifestyles?

Yes, designer bags cater to various lifestyles. For example:

Andrea Centeno, blogwriter for Ellie Belle

Andrea Centeno

Andrea is a writer and editor working in the field of beauty, fashion, and lifestyle for more than 10 years now. In the small gaps between her career as a writer, she styles and curates clothes for personal fashion clients, teaches young kids English during school breaks, and sits down in her mini craft corner to create jewelry pieces. She also has a small online space at  shimmerjjang.com where she randomly talks about her favorite lipsticks and eyeshadows, solo travels, and unending skincare journey. 

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