Once upon a time in the fashion world, “investment” didn’t just signify something to show off on your arm; it represented quality, timelessness, and a smart choice that defied the rapid fashion trend cycle. How the mighty term has evolved! Today, the luxury market has co-opted “investment” to describe the acquisition of extravagant handbags with the hope that they will yield more returns than a golden goose—assuming that the goose is a HERMÈS Birkin bag.
The HERMÈS Birkin. Message in a Bubble
The Birkin Bubble: A Study in Scarlet (Leather)
Take a trip back to 2016 when Baghunter, advocates for elite handbag collectors, asserted that Birkin bags outperformed stocks and gold. Their valuation, seemingly defying the laws of economic gravity, praised Birkins as the new gold standard, despite their liquidity being as limited as a concrete lifejacket. Who needs the S&P 500 when you can clutch cold, rigid leather?
The High-Fashion Fallacy: Bags vs. Bonds
Jefferies hopped onto the bandwagon, suggesting that one could make a fortune by reselling their luxury treasures for an eye-popping profit. However, they conveniently forgot to mention that for every fairy-tale ending, there’s a closet full of handbags that missed the carriage to the resale ball.
Auction House Hype and the Illusion of Market Value
Auction houses, experts in price inflation, now feature handbags alongside ancient artifacts. Not one to miss a lucrative trend, Christie’s has transitioned from dabbling to full-scale dealing, turning handbag auctions from a charming pastime into an all-out frenzy.
The Reality Check: Not All That Glitters is Gold (or Leather)
While luxury items can sometimes shield against the inflationary wolf, let’s not delude ourselves into thinking a Birkin is a concealed gold brick. The handbag market is a mere drop in the ocean compared to traditional investments, and its stability is as fragile as a house of fashionista cards. Moreover, the exclusivity that fuels demand for these “assets” could wane faster than a trend’s lifecycle.
The Apple of Discord: Brand Appeal and the Volatility of Wealth
Drawing parallels to Apple—a luxury brand that could lose its luster as quickly as a new iPhone model. Yet, even if Apple’s star were to dim, one could sell their shares before you could utter “market crash.” Try achieving that with a closet full of last season’s HERMÈS.
The Inconvenient Truth About Luxury ‘Investments’
The unpredictability of the luxury bag market turns it into a gamble, with risks ranging from damage to the threat of counterfeits. Investing in these goods is as uncertain as playing hot potato with your savings.
The Bottom Line: A Market on Tenterhooks
Despite its shaky foundations, the allure of luxury handbags as investment pieces endures. Brands are laughing all the way to the bank, bolstered by narratives that liken their products to blue-chip stocks. And let’s not forget the second-hand market’s role in this inflated bubble, reassuring consumers that their extravagant tastes are, in reality, a shrewd financial tactic.
Conclusion: The Emperor’s New Clutch
In the end, it appears that the luxury market has persuaded the world that these handbags are more about finance than fashion. Whether this story concludes with handsome profits or a closet brimming with depreciating assets, one thing remains certain: in the grand marketplace of luxury investments, these handbags might be the emperor strutting about in his new, exclusive, and exceedingly costly attire.
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, numerous trends have risen and faded away. However, a select group of classic designer handbags has stood the test of time, maintaining their coveted status over the decades. These timeless pieces owe their enduring allure to a combination of influential celebrity endorsements, ageless designs, and forward-thinking updates that cater to contemporary preferences.
What sets these classic handbags apart is their understated elegance. They eschew flashy branding and extravagant shapes, opting instead for a simplicity that exudes effortless beauty. These qualities make them excellent investments, as they remain as desirable today as they were in the past. If you’re seeking a handbag that effortlessly complements any outfit, occasion, or style, these classics are worth every penny.
CHANEL 2.55 Flap Bag
Chanel 2.55, an iconic classic, derives its name from its birth in February 1955. Coco Chanel, the founder of the House of Chanel, introduced this revolutionary Flap Bag, freeing women from the confines of traditional handbags.
Crafted from quilted leather inspired by jockeys’ riding jackets, featuring a distinctive lock and signature chain strap, it exudes luxury. Karl Lagerfeld, the Creative Director from 1983, transformed it with the iconic CC logo. In February 2005, Chanel re-released the 1995 classic version to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this enduring masterpiece.
GUCCI Jackie 1961 Small Shoulder Bag
The Jackie Bag: A Style Icon Renamed after Jackie Kennedy in 1961, this classic designer handbag, originally known as the Constance in the 1950s, gained fame in the 1960s when the former First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis used it to shield herself from paparazzi. Photographs of her with the distinctive curved half-moon hobo bag ignited its popularity. Officially renamed after her in 1961, it became a 1970s fashion staple but disappeared from Gucci collections in the 1980s. The bag enjoyed a revival under creative directors Tom Ford in 1999 and Frida Giannini in 2009. In Fall/Winter 2020, Alessandro Michele reintroduced the design in various colors and sizes. Recently, celebrities like Harry Styles and Kaia Gerber have been spotted carrying different versions of the Jackie bag.
PRADA Nylon Backpack
Beloved by ’90s supermodels, the Prada Nylon Backpack was a fashion staple in the late ’90s and early 2000s. It brought an athleisure vibe to ensembles before athleisure was even a trend. Introduced by Miuccia Prada in 1984, this iconic bag pioneered Prada’s use of industrial-weight nylon, akin to the material used in Army tents, in their accessories. While high-end handbags prioritized elegance, this cult item embraced an effortless casual look and was often seen with ’90s supermodels. Today, it endures for its functional interior and work-appropriate design.
FENDI Baguette
Debuting in 1997, the Fendi Baguette is the quintessential brunch companion. Carrie Bradshaw of “Sex and the City” was famously devoted to it, even defending it during a robbery, declaring, “It’s a Baguette.”
Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi, this compact bag features distinctive curved straps and the iconic logo hardware. Its name comes from its perfect size to snugly fit under the arm, reminiscent of a French baguette. This design catapulted Fendi from luxury to commercial success, offering over 1,000 versions of the bag.
LOUIS VUITTON Speedy
Since its inception in the 1930s, the Louis Vuitton Speedy, adorned with the iconic monogram print, has redefined everyday style with elegance and comfort. Once endorsed by fashion icon Audrey Hepburn, the Speedy 25 gained iconic status. Originally launched in larger sizes like 30cm, 35cm, and 40cm, LV introduced a compact version, the Speedy 25, to cater to Hepburn’s preference and growing consumer demand.
Named for its sleek, portable nature, the Speedy’s popularity has remained steadfast since the 1950s. While the classic Speedy remains irreplaceable, it is now available in a wide array of sizes, materials, and colors, continuing to be one of Louis Vuitton’s most sought-after bags.
HERMÈS Birkin
The Hermès Birkin, inspired by Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, has become a coveted status symbol. Its prices have consistently risen by 14.2% annually, making it a better investment than stocks or gold. The limited production and unique features, such as number-coded locks and keys, add to its allure in the fashion world.
Lady Dior by Christian Dior
Originally called ‘Chouchou,’ which means ‘favorite’ in French, the iconic Dior handbag was gifted to Princess Diana in 1995 by the First Lady of France. Featuring a signature ‘Cannage’ diamond pattern inspired by Napoleon III’s chairs, this timeless classic was renamed ‘Lady Dior‘ in honor of the Princess. It remains one of the brand’s most coveted pieces, with various reinterpretations in different sizes, colors, and materials.
LONGCHAMP Le Pliage
Le Pliage, meaning ‘folding’ in French, is a stylish tote inspired by Origami and designed by Philippe Cassegrain, son of Longchamp’s founder. It comes in over 150 varieties of prints and colors. The original 1993 design featured Russian leather handles, nylon canvas body, and an embroidered jockey logo representing a Paris racetrack. With customization options, it has sold over 32 million pieces worldwide, favored by not only renowned women like Kate Middleton, Miley Cyrus, and Alexa Chung but also for unisex use.
BALENCIAGA Motorcycle
Launched in 2001, the Balenciaga Motorcycle bag quickly became a favorite of influential style icons in the 2000s. Designed by Nicolas Ghesquière, it drew inspiration from motorcycle jackets with its distinctive zip detailing and studs. Even though it lacked a visible brand logo, it was instantly recognizable. A more modern version, the Le Cagole, is available in various colors and sizes.
CELINE Medium Classic Bag
Celine handbags, known for their durability and versatility, are timeless wardrobe essentials. The Medium Classic Bag, born in the Phoebe Philo era, features exquisite calfskin leather that exudes luxury. With its practical zippered compartments and removable shoulder strap, it quickly became a favorite accessory for urban women. The jeweled brass clasp, showcasing Celine’s artisanal excellence, has solidified its status as one of the best classic designer handbags to invest in over the years.
Get ready to drool, fashionistas! It’s time for the ultimate LV bag parade straight from the fashion heavens.
Have you been looking for the trendiest arm candies? Say hello to the fabulous world of LOUIS VUITTON. With roots from the 19th-century Parisian chic scene, LV is your go-to for some serious style flex. Dive in!
How to Pick Your LOUIS VUITTON Soulmate:
Design Vibes: Pick what screams YOU! Whether you’re a monogram maven or a leather lover, LV’s gotcha.
Size Up: Mini, medium, mega – choose your adventure. Need just the essentials? Go petite. Carrying your whole life? Get spacious.
Color Codes: Black, brown, rainbow? Match with your wardrobe and let that bag pop!
Spa Day: Keep that beauty clean. Follow the LV care manual and give it regular pamper sessions.
Top 10 LOUIS VUITTON Bags to Crush On
LV Classic Neverfull GM:
This stunner is all about the details, from the textile lining to that oh-so-covetable removable clutch. Every closet’s must-have.
LV Lockme Backpack Mini:
The ultimate back buddy for every outfit! Zero stress on what to pair it with.
LV Graceful MM:
Grace in a bag – spacious, elegant, and perfect for every day.
LV New Wave Bum Bag:
Sashay hands-free! Throwback with a modern twist. Wear it crossbody or around your waist.
LV Favorite PM:
Clutch? Crossbody? Why not both! Access your essentials with a flick.
LV City Steamer Mini:
For the boss babe vibes. Office or party – you’re always in style.
LV SC Bag BB:
Short or long handle? No need to choose – this bag’s got both!
LV Saintonge:
Class meets sass. Swing from day to night without missing a beat.
LV White Pochette Metis:
Petite elegance packed with pockets for all your favs.
LV Alma BB:
The iconic darling! Exquisite craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
Did You Know? The Alma bag was a unique design for fashion queen Coco Chanel. Talk about legendary!
Ok, fashion lovers, there you have it – your dream LV bag list. Yes, it might feel like a splurge, but trust us, it’s a forever love affair. So, what are you waiting for? Treat yourself!
Got Qs? We’ve Got As!
Most Loved LOUIS VUITTON Bag? The LV Neverfull tote bag. Size-flexible and always in style.
What happens to unsold bags? LV keeps it exclusive by burning the unsold to maintain its elite status. Controversial but classic LV.
Made of? Luxe leather, signature canvas, and monograms. Built to last and shine.
TLC for LOUIS VUITTON? Moisturize, and if stained, trust only luxury leather pros.
The Alluring Glitz of the Luxury Industrial Complex.
In the labyrinth of the film industry, an intriguing new synergy has emerged – a vivid intersection of cinema and fashion, where the audience is entranced by the plot and lured into an all-consuming world of glamor and luxury.
No better example of this can be found than in the recent Barbie film directed by Greta Gerwig. The movie surreptitiously morphs into an elaborate, glorified commercial for the luxury brand CHANEL, ensnaring its audience in the throes of the Luxury Industrial Complex.
The Barbie film transcends these parameters, ingeniously morphing into a grand advertisement for CHANEL.
Fashion has always played a pivotal role in cinema, enhancing narratives, conveying character nuances, and contributing to visual aesthetics. However, the Barbie film transcends these parameters, ingeniously morphing into a grand advertisement for CHANEL. The viewers are artfully guided through Barbie’s extensive CHANEL wardrobe, the bags acting as a glittering, captivating protagonist of their own.
The CHANEL brand subtly and yet overtly infiltrates Barbie’s world, constructing a narrative where the luxury label is integral to Barbie’s identity.
But let’s take a moment to untangle the layers. Margot Robbie, an accomplished actress, and a well-known CHANEL ambassador, portrays Barbie, an iconic doll that epitomizes Western consumer culture. It’s an ingenious example of brand partnership. The CHANEL brand subtly and yet overtly infiltrates Barbie’s world, constructing a narrative where the luxury label is integral to Barbie’s identity.
Margot Robbie actress, and a well-known CHANEL ambassador.
We find ourselves under the relentless influence of a luxury label deeply embedded into the childhood icon’s universe, becoming an inherent part of her identity.
CHANEL’s omnipresence in Barbie’s world extends beyond a wardrobe narrative, reaching an astonishing level of product placement. The nostalgic trip through CHANEL’s timeless bags, from the 1990s vintage bags to Karl Lagerfeld’s designs, is mesmerizing yet jarring. We find ourselves under the relentless influence of a luxury label deeply embedded into the childhood icon’s universe, becoming an inherent part of her identity. The film subtly steers viewers towards the idea that Barbie, a doll revered by millions of children, cannot do without her CHANEL bags. Is this what we want to convey to our children and teenagers, the movie’s primary target audience?
While Margot Robbie shines on screen as Barbie, the film blurs the line between cinema and branding, constructing an aspirational world where luxury brands are essential to one’s identity.
The movie is unapologetically a celluloid advertisement for CHANEL’s luxurious line of handbags, intricately woven into the Barbie narrative. While Margot Robbie shines on screen as Barbie, the film blurs the line between cinema and branding, constructing an aspirational world where luxury brands are essential to one’s identity.
View it critically as a glaring example of how the Luxury Industrial Complex can subtly yet dramatically influence our perceptions and aspirations.
Undoubtedly, this strategy reflects a new reality of branding, as more luxury brands use narrative arcs in popular culture to infiltrate our consciousness. But it also serves as a potent reminder that consumers should be aware of this coalescence between entertainment and consumerism. Let’s celebrate the film for its aesthetic brilliance and powerful narrative and view it critically as a glaring example of how the Luxury Industrial Complex can subtly yet dramatically influence our perceptions and aspirations.
The British-French singer, actress and style icon may have been known as the inspiration for the Birkin bag, but she was so much more.
To some extent, it does an injustice to the British-French actress and singer — who died at 76 of undisclosed causes on Sunday in Paris — that she is largely remembered for the luxury Hermès handbag that she inspired and that was named for her. The influence of Ms. Birkin, whom the modeling agent Paul Rowland called an “eternal muse,” extended beyond clothes. She gave proof beyond doubt that the best style originates in attitude.
Gamma-Rapho, via Getty Images
Jane Birkin was more than just a fashion icon; she was a trendsetter who defined styles for her time. Her influence extended beyond clothes, proving that true style originates from within. From her early days as Serge Gainsbourg’s muse and consort, Birkin exuded an air of understated elegance. Her wardrobe choices included shrunken T-shirts, cutoff jeans, espadrilles, babydoll dresses, and striped Breton sweaters, all of which contributed to her offhand chic.
Birkin’s style was distinctively different from the American aesthetic. It blended the slightly rumpled English look with classic French codes.
According to designer Anna Sui, Birkin’s style was distinctively different from the American aesthetic. It blended the slightly rumpled English look with classic French codes, creating a unique fusion. Birkin introduced something new to the fashion vocabulary, setting an example for a generation of women who sought to emulate her effortless grace.
Her influence as a style icon resonates even in today’s corporate and intentionally programmed fashion industry. Birkin’s approach to style was refreshingly authentic, untouched by the overbearing influence of marketing and trends. She embodied a sense of freedom and individuality that captivated generations.
Inspired by her need for a spacious handbag, Dumas designed the Birkin bag, a global emblem of status and luxury.
Ironically, the iconic Birkin bag, named in honor of Jane Birkin, became synonymous with luxury and wealth. Before its creation, Birkin was often seen carrying a simple straw market basket filled with her essentials. This overflowing basket caught the attention of Jean-Louis Dumas, the chief executive of Hermès, during a flight. Inspired by her need for a spacious handbag, Dumas designed the Birkin bag, a global emblem of status and luxury.
Jane Birkin only had one namesake bag at any time (she sells them when they become old and battered), but other celebrities live by the ‘the more Birkins, the better’ mantra.
With prices starting at over $10,000 and customizable options available, Birkins remain highly covetable. Collectors and celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Jennifer Lopez, and Cardi B proudly display their Birkin collections. However, it is worth noting that Birkin favored a simple leather model, adorning it with charms, worry beads, and other personal items in her signature bohemian fashion. Jane Birkin only had one namesake bag at any time (she sells them when they become old and battered), but other celebrities live by the ‘the more Birkins, the better’ mantra.
While the Birkin bag will forever be associated with her name, her legacy extends far beyond this symbol of luxury.
With her effortless elegance and iconic style, Jane Birkin remains a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. While the Birkin bag will forever be associated with her name, her legacy extends far beyond this symbol of luxury. Birkin’s influence on fashion, film, and music is undeniable, and her unique approach to style will continue to inspire individuals seeking to express their individuality. Jane Birkin will be remembered as a true style icon, forever etching her name in the annals of fashion history.
Jane Birkin, modeling for The Sun in 1964.Mirrorpix, via Everett Collection“She set a style example for a generation of women,” the designer Anna Sui said.Mckeown/Hulton Archive, via Getty ImagesMs. Birkin with her daughter Kate Barry, from her first marriage to the composer John Barry.Reg Burkett/Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesMs. Birkin, second from right, co-starred in the 1966 film “Blow-Up.”Mary Evans/AF Archive, via Everett CollectionThe star, who had a relationship with and was a muse for the musician Serge Gainsbourg, collaborated on their hit song “Je t’aime moi non plus,” released in 1969.Gamma-Keystone, via Getty ImagesMs. Birkin, wearing the helmet worn by the actor Terence Stamp in the film “Far From the Madding Crowd,” in 1970.Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesBefore the Birkin bag was created, Ms. Birkin was often photographed toting a straw marketbasket crammed with makeup, keys and assorted paraphernalia.Watford/Mirrorpix, via Getty ImagesPart of Ms. Birkin’s signature style was her bangs.Lothar Parschauer/picture-alliance/dpa, via Associated PressMs. Birkin, wearing velvet shorts and a cape in 1971.M. McKeown/Daily Express, via Getty ImagesMr. Gainsbourg and Ms. Birkin with their daughter, Charlotte, and with Kate, Ms. Birkin’s daughter from her previous marriage, in Saint-Tropez, France, in 1972.James Andanson/Sygma, via Getty ImagesMs. Birkin co-starred in the film “Don Juan, or if Don Juan Was a Woman,” by the director Roger Vadim.Roger Vadim/Agence France-Presse — Getty ImagesMs. Birkin performing in 1974.Laurent Maous/Gamma-Rapho, via Getty Images“Her style was very different from American style,” Ms. Sui said, and it introduced “something new to our fashion vocabulary.”Mike McKeown/Daily Express/Getty Images)During the 1974 Cannes Film Festival, she posed for the cameras as she pedaled out into the waters.Agence France-Presse — Getty ImagesMs. Birkin taking photos at the 1975 Cannes festival.Keystone/Getty ImagesIn the 1982 film “Evil Under the Sun,” Ms. Birkin co-starred alongside Peter Ustinov and Maggie Smith.Universal, via Everett CollectionMs. Birkin in 1995.John Stoddart/Popperfoto, via Getty ImagesThe British-French actress and singer was a pro-democracy activist for Myanmar and visited several organizations in the region.Thierry Falise/LightRocket, via Getty ImagesMs. Birkin in her apartment in Paris.Derek Hudson/Getty Images“I was well known for carrying a basket,” Ms. Birkin explained in a 2018 interview on YouTube. “So I obviously knew girls liked to have masses of things in their handbag.”Jun Sato/WireImage, via Getty ImagesMs. Birkin standing between her daughters Charlotte Gainsbourg, left, and Lou Doillon at a Saint Laurent show in 2016 in Paris.Bertrand Rindoff Petroff/Getty ImagesIn 2018, Ms. Birkin performed at the Francofolies Festival in France.Vincent Gramain/Abaca PressMs. Birkin posed while promoting the film “Jane by Charlotte,” a documentary about her and directed by Ms. Gainsbourg, her daughter, at the Cannes Film Festival in 2021.Christophe Simon/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
