ELEVATE YOUR LOOKS WITH THE BEST HANDBAGS FOR WOMEN

An outfit isn’t complete without the assistance of a luxury handbag. Classic designs age gracefully and give outfits a serious undertone, while contemporary choices can take a look in a whole new direction.

Handbags are among the most coveted designer pieces to invest in. If well cared for, certain styles can keep or increase in value over time. But besides their resale value, handbags are the lynchpin of a head-turning look. They add sophistication to every ensemble and store your belongings in style.

Whether selecting a time-tested classic from Saint Laurent, Prada, or Fendi or something avant-garde, there are several considerations to make in terms of shape, size, and material. The best handbags for women are versatile, fit the wearer’s personality, and even improve with age. The hunt for the perfect bag is a thrill all its own, thanks to plentiful options from top designers.

We’ll explain how to find the right bag and introduce classic designs into your current wardrobe.

HOW TO CHOOSE A BAG

Your ideal handbag style is easy to identify with a simple set of considerations. Whether you need an evening bag for an upcoming event or a timeless everyday tote, the following four elements simplify the decision:

Consider the occasion

When investing in a designer handbag, think about your agenda, the types of events you’ll attend, and the items you’ll carry. A large tote bag with room for a laptop and cosmetics bag is office-ready, whereas formal occasions may call for a sleek clutch that holds only the essentials, such as a phone and lip gloss. Top-handle bags make exquisite statement pieces and shoulder and bucket bags are fabulous for going hands-free.

The setting helps determine an appropriate material as well. Canvas, raffia, wicker, and wood are excellent natural materials for sunny weather, whereas leather, faux leather, suede, and plush fabrics complement cozy winter ensembles.

Think about the size

What must-haves will you carry from point A to point B? For some, the bare necessities will do: a cardholder and a set of keys. For others, it’s a wallet, makeup bag, compact mirror, and maybe even a book. A large tote or bucket bag best fits the latter, while minimalists can get by with petite shoulder bags, pouches, and mini bags.

Determine the best color

Black is undeniably the classic handbag shade. It’s always in style and goes with almost everything, making it a safe investment. That said, a bold hue that suits your wardrobe will accent colorful outfits and add a touch of fun to monochrome ensembles.

Make it personal

The best way to get longevity out of a designer piece is to find one that speaks to you. When choosing fabric, shape, color, and accents, make decisions based on your own unique sense of style. Showcase an edgy vibe one day with a bag featuring statement studs and punchy logos, or enhance a casual outfit the next day with tassels and relaxed, crinkled leather. By curating a wardrobe of bags, you get to showcase a different aspect of your signature style every day of the week.

7 LUXURY BAGS FOR WOMEN

With countless silhouettes to choose from, handbag shopping can be a bliss-inducing hobby that allows your creativity to flourish. Select a versatile design that complements most outfits or amass a collection of various styles to achieve synergy with specific looks.

Here are seven popular handbag styles and some of the best designer renditions:

Tote bags

Totes are roomy rectangular bags with parallel handles that can be held by hand or slung over one shoulder. Reach for a tote when you need plenty of room for on-the-go activities, whether it’s a busy day running errands or a relaxing afternoon strolling through a city park or the farmer’s market. For a laid-back and beachy vibe, consider the iconic canvas tote from Marc Jacobs or a Raffia Basket Tote Bag from Loewe. Or, choose a sophisticated intrecciato weave tote from Bottega Veneta for elevated daily wear.

Crossbody bags

Crossbody bags rest asymmetrically from one shoulder to the opposite hip. The design provides a chic, hands-free option that comfortably balances the weight of its contents. Chloé’s Marcie Whipstitch Saddle Crossbody Bag is a timeless and free-spirited option for those who crave simplicity. The curved design is accentuated by prominent stitching and leather tassels that lend the bag a feminine edge. Wear the strap at full length as a crossbody bag or shorten it to simulate a shoulder bag.

Shoulder bags

Shoulder bags belong in every woman’s wardrobe. They can be structured and hug the underarm or come in a slouchy hobo bag style that sits low and relaxed. Straps may be adjustable or fixed. Saint Laurent’s leather shoulder bags never go out of style and keep their value over time, ranking among the best investments in women’s handbags. Choose from luxe quilted, crinkled, or pebbled leather in the labels’ elegant fold-over styles.

Bucket bags

The contemporary bucket bag was designed by Gaston-Louis Vuitton in 1932 to carry five champagne bottles. The sturdy bottom withstood the weight, while the cinched top kept the bottles from clanging together. Since then, the design has made its way into the lineups of most luxury fashion houses. The bucket bag was a defining moment for Mansur Gavriel, which offers the timeless design in myriad colors, each cinched with a self-tie bow.

Clutches

Clutches are the epitome of elegance. Their compact, handle-free design provides enough room for the essentials and adds a touch of glamour to sleek outfits. This makes them an excellent choice to accompany evening gowns and chic suits. Select a daring design from Christian Louboutin or a bold metallic bag from Cult Gaia.

Top-handle bags

The name says it all; top-handle bags are handheld by a single, prominent strap. They come in a wide assortment of fabrics and silhouettes, helping you stand out from the crowd. Select a structured design from Off-White—punctuated with its signature arrow motif—to accentuate streetwear looks, or opt for an ultra-feminine design from Sophia Webster.

Mini bags

Sometimes, less really is more. Mini bags add a pop of color to neutral outfits and complement printed ensembles. Jacquemus is undeniably the master of mini bags, offering dainty accessories in bright, bold hues. The classic Le Chiquito bag is a small but mighty addition to any handbag rotation.

ALL ABOUT BAGS

Upgrade your everyday bag by selecting a special style from Neiman Marcus’ selection of top-name designs. Buy online and pick up in-store with our Click & Collect service for a quick and comfortable shopping experience.

Want to rejuvenate an old favorite? Maintain your most-beloved handbags with our repair and restoration services. Whether you need stains removed or hardware and lining replaced, your cherished bags can be refurbished and worn for many more seasons to come. 

For more inspiration, explore the Neiman Marcus editorial archive. We provide tips and outfit recommendations for various occasions and personal style preferences. Now that we’ve introduced the best handbags for women, explore shoulder bags and chic carry-on luggage to take on your next trip.