If You Want to Splurge on One Item for Fall, Make It This

With so many affordable brands on the market, I don't broach this subject lightly, but in the spirit of fall shopping, I'm going there. When there's something that I can get at Zara or the like that's just as lovely as the $1K designer version (e.g., a black blazer), I absolutely will order the affordable version. But the thing that I'm always supportive of splurging on is a designer bag. If you take good care of it, it'll last forever, and we've reported numerous times that many investment bags hold their value over time.

Early fall happens to be my favorite time of year to shop for a new bag, but it's worth pointing out that I tend to gravitate toward versatile bags that can be worn year-round. It certainly lowers the cost per wear. When it comes to handbags, I'm all about quality over quantity, and I choose my bags carefully. One of the ways in which I go about choosing them these days is, of course, Instagram. 

If you prefer to know what the best investment bags on the market are right now without scrolling through Instagram and shopping online for hours, you've come to the right place because I did it for you. Start contemplating your splurge-worthy bag purchase below.

Fendi Croissant Bag

Fendi reimagined its classic Croissant Bag, and I must say that it's even better than before. It's a great day-to-night one if you hate switching your bag out.

Bottega Veneta Jodie Bag

Fashion people have been obsessed with this little Bottega bag for the bulk of 2021, and I can't blame them—it's perfect (and comes in fun colors).

Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Hobo Bag 

If you asked me to name a perfect fall bag that's timeless, versatile, and less than $2K, I'd name Saint Laurent's new It bag. Hailey Bieber is already a fan.

Wandler Penelope Bag

Wandler has perfected the art of making sleek, professional bags that are also forward. They're just as suitable for the weekend as they are for 9-to-5.

Gucci Jackie Bag

Gucci's Jackie Bag is a favorite of our senior market editor Nicole's, and I can see why. It's the ideal size and shape, and something tells me that she'll hang on to this one for life.

BY FAR Amber Bag

BY FAR's Amber bag is simple and logo-free, yet it's instantly recognizable and is a favorite of celebs and influencers alike.

Prada Cleo Bag

Earlier this year, it was nearly impossible to get your hands on a Prada Cleo Bag, and it's still in high demand. With its classic Prada logo and throwback '90s shape (that's still so modern), it's easy to see why.

Loewe Cubi Anagram Bag

Loewe's new Cubi bag is incredibly lightweight, and it folds flat, making it perfect for travel. It's also a bit lower in price than many of its fellow It bags.

Gucci Ophidia GG Bag

Gucci's instantly recognizable Ophidia bags give me equestrian vibes, and I'm here for it. Based on how long this logo print has been a thing, I think it's here to stay.

Chanel Flap Bag

This one needs no explanation. Chanel bags are a major investment—there's no doubt about that. But they also retain their value better than almost any brand out there.

Jacquemus Le Chiquito Bag

Season after season, Jacquemus Le Chiquito Bags continue to be a favorite among fashion people, and Jacquemus keeps coming up with new iterations of the incredibly popular bag.

Shop More Splurge-Worthy Bags

Next up, the designer bag that every fashion person seems to own.