Finding a brand new, premium designer bag in boutiques for under US$1,000 is nearly impossible these days. And unfortunately, the quality of bags has declined—both in material and craftsmanship—due to mass production, while the costs of basic goods and services continue to rise. As a result, many consumers are becoming more pragmatic with their spending. Increasingly, shoppers are turning to independent bag brands and the second-hand resale market for better deals and unique finds. Personally, I love the idea of giving new life to items previously owned by others. Consider this a sign to explore fashion’s bag archives and revive iconic styles from the past. Not only will you be contributing to a growing circular economy, but you’ll also save money, as these bags are typically more reasonably-priced and better-made.
Luella Bartley Gisele
Former British fashion journalist Luella Bartley established her namesake brand in 1999 and launched the Luella bag at her show in 2000. Carried by supermodel Gisele Bündchen on the runway, the bag was quickly dubbed the Gisele. This bag represented a significant moment for smaller, independent designers. And although the brand closed in 2008, the legacy of the Gisele bag still lives on. With the structure and style reminiscent of the Birkin, this IT bag of the early aughts can still be found in the resale market for around $300.
Marc Jacobs Blake Bag
One of the most iconic bags of the noughties, the multi-pocket Blake bag from Marc Jacobs defines an era when he was celebrated for his collections at Louis Vuitton. While both the Blake and Sophia bags were popular, the Blake hobo is the more practical option today, allowing for hands-free carrying. Plus, this style was featured in The Devil Wears Prada, which celebrates its 18th anniversary this year. Currently, you can find the Blake bag in good condition on the resale market starting at $250.
Chloé Paddington
First, a warning for bag lovers: the original Paddington bag comes with a massive lock that weighs almost as much as a brick! Despite this, the Paddington remains one of the best bags of the 2000s, launched during Phoebe Philo’s tenure at Chloé. While it originally lacked a shoulder strap, it features two rolled handles for easy carrying, secured by zippers that meet in the center. Launched in 2005, the Paddington had an immensely long waiting list. Today, you can find it in the resale market from $250 up.
Mulberry Alexa
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Launched in January 2010, the Mulberry Alexa was conceived as a tribute to British personality Alexa Chung. Chung, one of fashion’s original it-girls, was first seen with a Mulberry Elkington, a briefcase originally designed for men. Then-creative director Emma Hill modified the bag, and the Alexa was born. This top handle bag consistently dominated the must-have lists for bag lovers and can be carried in three ways. Although it was discontinued in 2016, it made a quiet comeback in 2020. You can find the vintage (original) slouchy Alexa in the resale market for about $300.
Tod’s D Styling Bag
The D-Styling bag (known today as the Di bag) remains one of Tod’s classic and minimalist pieces in their bag repertoire. First launched in the late 90s, this easy-to-carry bag with two rolled handles became a staple of Princess Diana and later, Catherine, Princess of Wales. The bag has seen several iterations during the changes in the house’s creative director, but the bowling bag style remains one of the most timeless designs to date. Prices for the vintage and original D Styling bag start at around $250.
Editor
Ingrid Chua
