The 24/7 Tote
Make a tote the foundation of your collection: a medium-sized bag that’s roomy enough to carry your day’s essentials, and smart enough to take you from desk to dinner and beyond. This will be the hardest working bag in your closet, so it’s a style you should think about carefully before investing. You can’t go wrong with an Hermès Birkin or Kelly bag.
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A pop-bright yellow Hermès Kelly spotted in Paris. Image: Imaxtree
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Hermès Kelly 28 Niloticus Crocodile Jaune Mimosa
€ 49.140,—
€
49.140,—
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Hermès Kelly 28 Veau Madame Black
€ 21.315,—
€
21.315,—
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Hermès Kelly 25 Togo Gold
€ 23.027,—
€
23.027,—
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Hermès Kelly Mini Epsom Bleu Navy
€ 22.890,—
€
22.890,—
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Hermès Kelly 28 Togo Vert de Gris
€ 20.790,—
€
20.790,—
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Hermès Kelly 25 Togo Rouge Pivoine
€ 15.750,—
€
15.750,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 28 Au Galop Togo Craie / Black / Fauve / Rouge H
€ 16.139,—
€
16.139,—
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Hermès Kelly 28 Alligator Mississippiensis Vert Emeralde
€ 31.395,—
€
31.395,—
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Hermès Kelly 28 Epsom Gold
€ 20.895,—
€
20.895,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 35 Harlequin Togo Orange / Etain / Blue Lin / Sanguine / Blue Hydra / Gold
€ 12.600,—
€
12.600,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 20 Mini en Desordre Epsom Black
€ 34.388,—
€
34.388,—
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Hermès Kelly 32 Niloticus Crocodile Black
€ 29.925,—
€
29.925,—
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Hermès Kelly Pocket Strap Epsom / Swift Caban / Blue Saphir
€ 2.258,—
€
2.258,—
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Hermès Kelly HSS 28 Ostrich Vert Verone / Rouge H
€ 31.343,—
€
31.343,—
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Hermès Kelly 32 Porosus Crocodile Black
€ 14.648,—
€
14.648,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 28 Ostrich Gold / Rouge Vif
€ 27.059,—
€
27.059,—
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Vintage

Hermès Kelly 32 Box Black
€ 6.090,—
€
6.090,—
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Vintage

Hermès Kelly 32 Ardennes Black
€ 10.553,—
€
10.553,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly Doll Bag Charm Tadelakt Blue Izmir / Jaune Bourgeon / Blue Brume / Vert Bosphore
€ 4.358,—
€
4.358,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kellydole Picto Epsom Chai / Mauve / Terre Battue / Celeste
€ 56.595,—
€
56.595,—
If you prefer a slightly more informal look, opt for a Birkin: it’s less structured and therefore more spacious, with a top that can be carried open and unclasped (all the better for fitting everything in). In contrast, the Kelly has a sharp, ladylike silhouette (particularly if you choose a Kelly Sellier over a Retourne), with a clasp that needs to be fastened. It also has the advantage of an optional shoulder strap as well as its top handle. A classic neutral colour such as Noir, Gold or Etoupe in a hardwearing leather like Togo or Epsom will ensure your tote stays timeless for years to come.
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Birkin Fray 35 Toile / Swift Menthe
€ 17.535,—
€
17.535,—
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Hermès Birkin 35 Togo Étoupe
€ 14.070,—
€
14.070,—
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Hermès Birkin 30 Togo Colvert
€ 13.440,—
€
13.440,—
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Hermès Birkin 30 Togo Sauge
€ 17.430,—
€
17.430,—
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Hermès Birkin HSS 25 Swift Black / Bleu de France
€ 23.940,—
€
23.940,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Birkin Cargo 25 Toile Goeland / Swift Nata
€ 31.395,—
€
31.395,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Birkin Fray 35 Swift / Toile Sesame
€ 17.787,—
€
17.787,—
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Hermès Birkin 35 Porosus Crocodile Vert Foncé
€ 39.218,—
€
39.218,—
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Hermès Birkin 35 Clemence Rose Lipstick
€ 12.495,—
€
12.495,—
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Vintage

Hermès Birkin 35 Vache Natural
€ 9.293,—
€
9.293,—
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Hermès Birkin 35 Alligator Mississippi Marron d’Inde
€ 34.598,—
€
34.598,—
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Hermès Birkin 40 Togo Étoupe
€ 14.228,—
€
14.228,—
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Hermès Birkin 25 Togo Jaune Ambre
€ 19.425,—
€
19.425,—
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Hermès Birkin 30 Ostrich Rouge Casaque
€ 22.444,—
€
22.444,—
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Vintage

Hermès Birkin 35 Togo Black
€ 12.857,—
€
12.857,—
The About-Town Bag
Second on your wishlist should be a shoulder or crossbody bag: a compact style that you can wear hands-free when you’re running about town. It should be big enough to carry your phone, purse, keys and some makeup. Here’s where the house of Chanel really comes into its own. A Classic Flap or 2.55 Reissue are your shortcut to weekend chic, crafted in the brand’s iconic quilted leather with a chain strap. If you prefer an edgier vibe, the Boy Bag could be the about-town style for you: its chunky strap and CC clasp exude contemporary cool.
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Chanel’s Timeless Classic. Image: Imaxtree
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Vintage

Chanel Timeless Jumbo Lamb Black
€ 4.150,—
€
4.150,—
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Chanel Timeless Jumbo Lamb Black
€ 4.725,—
€
4.725,—
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Chanel Timeless Heart Medium Lamb Violet
€ 6.615,—
€
6.615,—
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Chanel Timeless Medium Calf Light Pink
€ 7.889,—
€
7.889,—
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Chanel Timeless Maxi Patent Black
€ 4.515,—
€
4.515,—
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Chanel Timeless Graffiti Extra Mini Lamb Multicolour
€ 3.570,—
€
3.570,—
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Chanel Timeless Jumbo Lamb Beige
€ 6.195,—
€
6.195,—
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Collector’s Item

Chanel Timeless Handle Small Lamb Black
€ 3.255,—
€
3.255,—
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Chanel Timeless Wallet On Chain Caviar Shiny Champagne
€ 1.943,—
€
1.943,—
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Chanel Timeless Mini Rectangular Lamb Anthracite
€ 3.990,—
€
3.990,—
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Chanel Timeless Medium Denim Blue
€ 4.568,—
€
4.568,—
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Chanel Timeless Jumbo Lamb Black
€ 6.930,—
€
6.930,—
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Chanel Timeless Maxi Lamb Beige
€ 3.990,—
€
3.990,—
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Chanel Timeless Tramezzo Medium Lamb Navy
€ 3.990,—
€
3.990,—
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Chanel Timeless Medium Lamb Dark Blue
€ 3.360,—
€
3.360,—
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Chanel Timeless Wallet On Chain Artificial Fabric White
€ 1.974,—
€
1.974,—
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Chanel Timeless Handle Medium Caviar Gold / Black
€ 4.925,—
€
4.925,—
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Chanel Timeless Medium Patent Hot Pink / Fuchsia
€ 4.694,—
€
4.694,—
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Chanel Timeless Jumbo Lamb Black
€ 7.613,—
€
7.613,—
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Chanel Timeless Medium Tweed Pink
€ 7.088,—
€
7.088,—
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A grey Flap Bag on the SS20 Runway. Image: Imaxtree
For clean lines, the Hermès Constance wins out. It has a sleek and simple ‘60s silhouette that was adored by the likes of Jackie O. The Dior Saddle Bag also fits the bill: first introduced in 2000 by John Galliano, this curvaceous shoulder bag was officially relaunched in 2018 to the delight of fashionistas worldwide. Handily, the newer Saddle Bag styles are roomier than the original design, to accommodate today’s larger smartphones. And finally, if your eye is drawn to It Bags, look no further than the Bottega Veneta Cassette, which makes use of designer-of-the-moment Daniel Lee’s new Maxi weave – especially prized in its padded form. Refreshingly for such a cult hit, the Cassette is logo-free, adhering to Bottega’s ethos of ‘when your own initials are enough.
The Evening Mini
An uber-glamorous mini evening bag is the dash of frivolity every accessories collection needs. Glittering, embellished, playful or delightfully dainty, this is the bag that you could pair with a little black dress and a dab of perfume and feel instantly ready for a night out. High on our hit list is a Chanel Lego clutch – crafted from Plexiglass, it comes in a range of eye-popping shades and fun varieties.
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Chanel’s Lego Clutch on the SS13 Runway. Image: Imaxtree
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Chanel Wallet On Chain Python Red
€ 2.835,—
€
2.835,—
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Chanel WOC Lamb Camellia Red
€ 2.533,—
€
2.533,—
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Chanel Camellia Wallet On Chain Lamb Dark Grey / Gold
€ 2.940,—
€
2.940,—
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Chanel Wallet On Chain Calf Blue
€ 2.447,—
€
2.447,—
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Chanel Clutch Python Coral
€ 2.130,—
€
2.130,—
If you’re after something more classic, the Hermès Kelly Clutch is an elegant, elongated twist on this iconic bag, while Bottega Veneta’s Knot Clutch celebrates the brand’s Intrecciato weave in a compact lozenge case, crowned with a knotted clasp. Micro interpretations of classic handbags also make for wonderful after-dark companions: look out for a Mini Dior Lady or Hermès Kelly Mini.
The Weekend Shopper
We’ve all had those moments when you realise you’re carrying multiple bags to fit all your possessions. A shopper will help you avoid that bag-lady look: a large open-topped tote that you can throw some spare shoes, your gym kit and a book into, as well as your usual essentials. Fittingly named, the Dior Book Tote is a perfect example of this practical carryall: released in 2018 to instant acclaim, its simple square shape has been interpreted in multiple fabrics and alluring patterns – durable and stylish.
We also love the Hermès Double Sens 45: a sleek leather tote with a contrasting lining, it has the added advantage of being reversible: two bags for the price of one! Unsurprisingly, Bottega Veneta has also perfected off-duty chic with the Cabat bag, a lightweight and seamless shopper crafted entirely in their luxurious Intrecciato leather weave.
The Trophy Piece
No bag collection would be complete without a little extravagance. Beyond the bags that you use every week, make room for a style that’s truly special: your trophy piece, the crowning glory of your closet. Already found your 24/7 tote in a classic colour? Why not branch out for a Birkin in a limited-edition shade such as 5P Pink, or a Kelly in exotic crocodile or ostrich leather? Go avant-garde with a seasonal runway bag by Chanel (we’ve always had our eye on the Lait de Coco milk carton), or an artistic collaboration such as Hermès’ graphic Nigel Peake prints. Alternatively, you could set your sights on a unique vintage piece: how about hunting down an original ‘90s Chanel backpack, or a Kelly bag in Rouge H Box Calf leather? Get started by reading our guides to the most lusted-after Hermès and Chanel styles, and get dreaming (and saving)…
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Birkin Fray 35 Toile / Swift Menthe
€ 17.535,—
€
17.535,—
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Collector’s Item

Chanel Timeless Handle Small Lamb Black
€ 3.255,—
€
3.255,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 28 Au Galop Togo Craie / Black / Fauve / Rouge H
€ 16.139,—
€
16.139,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Birkin Cargo 25 Toile Goeland / Swift Nata
€ 31.395,—
€
31.395,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Birkin Fray 35 Swift / Toile Sesame
€ 17.787,—
€
17.787,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 35 Harlequin Togo Orange / Etain / Blue Lin / Sanguine / Blue Hydra / Gold
€ 12.600,—
€
12.600,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 20 Mini en Desordre Epsom Black
€ 34.388,—
€
34.388,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Picotin Cargo 18 Toile Goeland / Swift Raisin / Cassis
€ 4.767,—
€
4.767,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Haut à Courroies 50 Togo Alezan
€ 14.469,—
€
14.469,—
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Collector’s Item

Chanel Backpack Wool / Lamb Blue / Black
€ 3.360,—
€
3.360,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly 28 Ostrich Gold / Rouge Vif
€ 27.059,—
€
27.059,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly Doll Bag Charm Tadelakt Blue Izmir / Jaune Bourgeon / Blue Brume / Vert Bosphore
€ 4.358,—
€
4.358,—
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Collector’s Item

Chanel Boy New Medium Lamb / Embroidery Orange / Multicolour
€ 6.038,—
€
6.038,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kellydole Picto Epsom Chai / Mauve / Terre Battue / Celeste
€ 56.595,—
€
56.595,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly Doll Bag Charm Tadelakt Capucine / Jaune de Naples / Vert Vertigo / Blue Zanzibar
€ 4.358,—
€
4.358,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly Mini Touch Alligator / Veau Madame Amethyst / Anemone
€ 33.390,—
€
33.390,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly Touch 25 Togo / Lizard Black
€ 24.308,—
€
24.308,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly Doll Bag Charm Swift Étoupe
€ 5.145,—
€
5.145,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Kelly Padded 25 Barenia Fauve
€ 32.524,—
€
32.524,—
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Collector’s Item

Hermès Roulis 18 Ombre Lizard / Matte Alligator Vert Cactus
€ 21.105,—
€
21.105,—
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A limited-edition PVC Chanel Flap Bag. Image: Imaxtree
Inspired to begin your bag collection? Let us know what’s on your wishlist, and we’ll help you find your forever pieces.