Vintage designer bags have become all the talk among fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike. Aside from their timeless designs and high-quality levels of craftsmanship that make these bags so durable, vintage designer bags represent a bygone era of fashion and luxury (we’re looking at you, y2K). Owning one is a chance to connect and tap into our nostalgia for the glamour and mood of the past. They often feature details and finishes that are no longer available on modern bags or in a designer brand’s current season collections and nothing is more satisfying than knowing that you’re carrying a unique piece of history.

So, what are the most iconic vintage designer bags? From the depths of your grandma’s wardrobe, to being papped on the arms of major A-listers on the streets of fashion week, discover 5 vintage designer bags that have become the new ‘it bags’ of 2023. Taking vintage to vogue, these iconic retro bags are guaranteed worth the investment.

5 iconic vintage designer bags

Hermes Kelly Sellier

Originally called the "sac à dépêches," this bag was renamed in honour of Grace Kelly after she used it to shield her pregnancy from paparazzi in 1977. The bag features a distinctive trapezoidal shape and a signature turn-lock closure. When it comes to luxury collectables, you can’t go wrong with the Hermes Box Kelly Sellier in black and with gold hardware. What was once considered ‘your mum’s bag’ has made its way into the hands of Millennial and Gen Z luxury buyers who are styling the iconic accessory in new and unexpected ways. From casual looks - think oversized jeans and trainers - to formal evening wear, the Kelly’s cross-body strap and top handle makes this bag the perfect vintage number to take you from day to night and classy to cool.

Chanel 2.55

In 1955, Coco Chanel introduced a bag that would signify a new era of freedom for women. The 2.55 – a quilted-leather bag with a long, slim chain – was the first bag to ever feature a shoulder strap, offering a new level of hands-free ease to women who had been previously limited to rigid top handles.Vintage 2.55 truly feel like carrying a piece of revolutionary fashion history. Read more about the best Chanel bags to buy secondhand here.

Louis Vuitton Speedy

With the increasing popularity of travel as a leisure activity, traditional stackable and rigid luggage gave way to more flexible and portable travel gear. Louis Vuitton responded accordingly by introducing the Speedy bag in 1930, initially known as the "Express." Constructed from waxed, coated canvas adorned with the brand's renowned monogram and vachetta leather handles and piping, the Speedy offered a blend of suppleness and sturdiness. The Speedy's transformation from a functional yet luxurious travel accessory into a fashionable handbag was under the influence of Audrey Hepburn. In 1959, Hepburn requested Louis Vuitton to downsize the original 30 Speedy to 25. Soon after, the globally-renowned movie star was seen carrying the smaller satchel, and the vintage travel bag remains just as popular today.

Fendi Zucca baguette

The Fendi Baguette, which gained popularity after being seen on the arms of celebrities such as Naomi Campbell and Madonna, and also featured regularly on the television show Sex and the City, marked the birth of the "It bag" phenomenon. It was the first bag that women of a certain generation were willing to spend a significant amount of money on, even more than their rent. Nostalgia for all thing y2k fashion has solidified this shoulder bag's enduring popularity. Since 1997, more than 1000 variations of the bag have been produced, yet the iconic Fendi Zucca print will always be a fan-favourite. Timeless yet trendy, the Zucca's neutral colour way also makes it easy to dress up or down and coordinate with a range of outfits.

Dior Saddle Bag

In the spirit of all things y2k, we can't forget the Galliano-era Dior Saddle bags. Originally created by John Galliano and recently been brought back by Maria Grazia Chiuri in 2018, this equestrienne-inspired bag is considered one of the most distinctive handbag shapes from the 2000s. Coming in a multitude of variations, it is by far one of the most coveted vintage designer bags. From newspaper prints adorned with the logo to utilitarian camouflage and denim, Galliano-era saddle bags are amongst the most unique designer bags to buy secondhand. Read more about the history of Dior Saddle bags here.

Where to buy vintage designer bags online?

Discover our collection of vintage designer bags here. We drop nearly 300+ new in preloved designer pieces every day, including both vintage and current season secondhand designer clothes, bags, shoes and accessories. Looking to sell your vintage designer bags online or in the UK? We're just a WhatsApp away. Start selling here.