Saint Laurent Makes a Lot of Bags, But These 10 Are the Most Coveted
In the market for a YSL bag? Don't put in your order without reading this.
Vanessa Powell
Step into the timeless world of fashion with Saint Laurent, a brand that has graced the industry with its effortless, modern elegance and sophisticated edge since the height of the '60s. A few items exist among the myriad of fleeting trends that withstand the test of time and transcend seasons with ease. At the top of that coveted list is none other than a truly remarkable handbag—a YSL bag, to be precise.
Through the decades, Yves Saint Laurent has captivated the hearts of fashion enthusiasts with its iconic handbag collections designed to complement every occasion. Evolving under the guidance of various creative directors, the brand made a bold statement by dropping the "Yves" in a daring RTW rebrand, yet the passionate cult following of YSL bags remained stronger than ever. The unmistakable "Y" monogram on its bags serves as a symbol of enduring quality, unrivaled style, and timeless allure. Owning a luxurious YSL bag requires an investment, no doubt, but it's an investment in forever. This wardrobe monument promises to be an irreplaceable companion throughout the years, a statement of sophistication that never fades.
Let's embark on a journey to discover what makes YSL bags so extraordinary, unraveling everything you need to know before indulging in the epitome of fashion excellence. Get ready to embrace the allure of Yves Saint Laurent and elevate your fashion game to new heights.
But First, the Rules
Rule 1: Know the Brand Basics and Start There
Each season, Saint Laurent will come out with new iterations of its existing products. The basic Saint Laurent bag styles to consider for the utmost longevity are the famous Sac de Jour, the Loulou, the Manhattan, and the Shopping Tote. These are styles you will have in your closet forever.
Rule 2: Choose One That Suits Your Lifestyle
The most important thing to consider when investing in a designer bag is to know the purpose it will have in your life. Do you prefer an everyday carryall? Maybe the Sac de Jour is for you. If you're one to throw your bag around and are a bit rougher, you should probably steer toward the Sac de Jour duffle because it has a zip closure, organizational pockets, and a canvas lining.
If you want to keep your bag organized without the help of added pockets and compartments but need something more spacious to fit a laptop and gym clothes, then maybe the Shopping Tote is right for you. If you like to show off during a night out, consider the Classic Monogram Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag, the Loulou, or the Manhattan, which is most similar to the wallet on a chain. These differ slightly in depth and style, but they are perfect for any night out.
If you're still overwhelmed with options, visit a store and bring everything you'd like to fit inside it. Make sure your accouterments fit comfortably with room to grow—just in case.
Rule 3: Take Your Time
It's important to take your time when making a fashion purchase this heavy, especially if it's your first designer bag. Do not make this an impulse buy. Investing in your wardrobe through designer items should be a well-thought-out and strategic process. Consider your lifestyle and how it will play well in your closet.
Now, shop the 10 most coveted bags:
1. Saint Laurent Icare
This bag has been an It-girl staple since it launched and Zoë Kravitz strutted past paparazzi camera lenses holding it. It's a dramatic departure from the micro-mini bags that have held our hearts these past few years, and it really does carry it all.
2. Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Leather Hobo
This may have been the most purchased designer bag in my social circle in the past few years. Hailey Bieber seems to be spotted in it every few weeks, and the brand just keeps coming up with fun styles I'd love to try.
3. Saint Laurent Shopping Tote
If you want a bag that's truly timeless, you need the Shopping Tote in your life. It has been a working professional's go-to for years. It's simply the most classic silhouette money can buy.
4. Saint Laurent Mombasa Bag
The newest Saint Laurent bag on the market is already set to be an It buy. Now that Bella Hadid has been seen wearing it, I'm predicting it'll be everywhere soon.
5. Saint Laurent Loulou Shoulder Bag
This is a bag that I weeped over for years and always dreamed of owning. It's a classic Saint Laurent style that It girls are still buying because it's as soft as a pillow.
6. Saint Laurent Le 37 Bag
If you're traveling or just spending days on end out and about, this is the kind of bag you'll want to have by your side. Whether you're trying to squeeze in a water bottle or just a really good book, there's plenty of room.
7. Saint Laurent Jamie Shoulder Bag
Something about a quilted bag feels special. The texture and craftsmanship of this specific style have me drawn in, and I can't stop staring.
8. Saint Laurent Manhattan Bag
Popular among fashion people for decades, the Manhattan bag is an all-time classic. Whether you wear it as a shoulder bag or crossbody, you'll be able to squeeze quite a lot into it.
9. Saint Laurent Sac de Jour
If you're looking for a brand-new bag of the day, the Sac de Jour is for you. My favorite thing about it is that it comes in a wide array of sizes. If you want something tiny to drape across your body for a party or big enough to fit your laptop, you'll have options here.
10. Saint Laurent Voltaire Bag
If you're looking for a shoulder bag that feels fresh, this newer style by the brand is slowly popping up just about everywhere. It's a more sculpted option compared to the brand's other well-known bags.

Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
- Vanessa PowellContributor