Top 10 Handbags for 2023
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That said, I had just launched on Substack last week when a text came in from a girlfriend saying, “Content request. Handbags to buy for 2023, please.”
Good idea, actually.
I usually try to provide a mix of high and low, luxury and budget options.
But fashion is about the dream, isn’t it?
So, even if you can’t afford these handbags — I know, most of us can’t — I encourage you to use this list as inspiration.
Fashion does have a trickle-down effect… so, I’m certain you’ll be able to find something similar.
Here are my TOP 10 HANDBAGS FOR 2023:
1. SAINT LAURENT TOY SHOPPING TOTE BAG, $1290 — If you were to ask me which everyday bag I use the most, this is it. I bought this in black years ago and it’s still my go-to… for running around the city… for travel… you name it. My vote for BEST CROSSBODY BAG.
2. LOUIS VUITTON X YAYOI KUSAMA ALMA BB BAG, $2770 — Louis Vuitton just unveiled its collection with celebrated Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, and I’m here for it. There are lots of bags to choose from, but this one with the iconic Kusama pumpkin is my favorite. Come in red/white, black/white and black/yellow. Plus, it’s a collector’s item.
3. CHANEL 22 HANDBAG, $4900-$5800 (depending on size) — The latest “Rolls Royce” of handbags is the Chanel 22 (22 refers to the year it was created, 2022). Comes in black, red and white leather and also tweed. If you have the means to drop $5k on a bag, well, you won’t do better than this one.
4. KHAITE LILITH EVENING BAG, $3200 — Hands down, the best evening bag of the season. It’ll cost you, but it’s a beauty — a real showstopper.
5. PACO RABANNE PAILLETTE-EMBELLISHED METALLIC SHOULDER BAG, $950 — Every time I go to Paris, and I mean every time, I walk into the Paco Rabanne boutique with the intention of buying a metallic paillette bag… and, for some reason, I walk out without one. Don’t know why. I’ve always wanted one. This is the latest iteration of that iconic bag — love the heart-shaped paillettes.
6. GUCCI JACKIE 1961 MEDIUM SHOULDER BAG, $3150 — Speaking of iconic bags, this one was created in 1961 and named for — you guessed it — Jackie O. The bag was recently reimagined and now comes in three sizes — mini, small and medium. There’s also a croc version for $31,000 — in case you’re interested.
7. LOEWE MINI SLIT BAG IN RAFFIA AND CALFSKIN, $1250 — It’s never too early to be thinking about summer, right? This Loewe raffia crossbody is about as good as it gets in terms of no-fuss, carry-all chic summer bags. Great for travel.
8. LOEWE PUFFER GOYA BAG, $3500 — Another Loewe bag I absolutely love. The new Puffer Goya Bag is so chic. Comes in eight colors. I love it in Camel.
9. BOTTEGA VENETA TEEN JODIE BAG, $3200 — You gotta hand it to Bottega Veneta. Year after year, they modify popular styles in a way that feels fresh. The Teen Jodie is roomy and you can carry it on your shoulder. Comes in 13 colors. My pick is Space (midnight blue).
10. THE ROW HALF MOON SHOULDER BAG, $1350 — This bag is the definition of quiet luxury, according to British Vogue. Let’s just say if it’s good enough for Kendall Jenner, it’s good enough for me.
See you next Wednesday!
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