Bag Investment Picks That Stand the Test of Time

• Investment-worthy bags prioritize timeless style over fleeting trends.
• From minimalist shoulder bags to everyday totes, explore a few classic styles that will take you from campus to career (and beyond).

Masters of mixing trends and timelessness, we could all take notes from the investment strategy of the financially savvy—focusing on longevity, they’re looking for style that feels current, but has staying power. This mode of shopping with intention translates into looking at bags with a buy less, buy better mentality.

It’s all about choosing bags that will evolve with you from campus to career, or as you embark on getting out there to explore the world; and that make you feel confident, capable, and fully you while doing so. They know that the secret to style isn’t in what you wear—it’s how you wear it. Below, some investment-worthy bags of the moment.

A modern icon: structured, streamlined, and compact yet capacious enough for the necessities. Endlessly stylish in nature, the minimalist shoulder bag’s clean lines and architectural shape give it a refined air that goes with just about anything in your closet. Pair it with your favorite jeans-and-tee combo by day, or mini hemlines and heels when you’re headed out for the night.

Style Tip: To really make the most of your investment, opt for a shoulder bag like the Tabby in neutral hues like black, luggage brown or degrees of white that are as seasonless as they are timeless. Or, if you tend to dress in neutral-toned or monochromatic looks, think of your outfit as the blank canvas and opt for a richly colored or patterned shoulder bag to wear as your bold accent piece.

A boring bag? Never heard of one. There’s no better way to express your many moods or shades of personality than with charms and key chains, unique hardware or prints that pop. And when it comes to flair, you don’t need to sacrifice practicality for style. Take a crossbody, for example; a hands-free hero, this classic bag will make a statement while providing the everyday ease that we’re all craving these days.

Style Tip: When it comes to a bolder bag, consider your overall budget and how quickly your style or personal tastes tend to change before investing. If you’re someone who loves to frequently update your look or wardrobe, focus on a timeless-colored bag as the base, which you can then personalize as often as you like with removable accessories and attachments such as charms. If you’re one to commit to standout designs, patterns or embellishments you know you won’t get sick of—the sky’s the limit.

Multi-taskers, rejoice—the tote bags of today are designed more diversely than super traditional, more structured versions. When made from ultra durable materials with the highest quality craftsmanship, even slouchier shapes will withstand keeping modern technology organized, while working as hard as you do (and looking stylish, of course). Laptop? Check. Gym clothes for later? Check. Or, you could also forget about work and use your remaining PTO. Whether you’re throwing in a book or art supplies for some crafting, or packing your passport and a couple of travel guides, the beauty of the everyday tote is your ability to simply grab it and go.

Style Tip: Totes crafted from durable leather will withstand carrying more weight and get better with age as they develop a vintage patina; look for qualities like reinforced handles and seams, too.

We love all bags—but with our unwavering dedication to sustainability, we really love how circular style has become important to so many of you. Fast fashion is made to get on the market quickly, often at the expense of quality craftsmanship; a bag that falls apart just as quickly just doesn’t make much sense financially. Bags that are worth the investment? Those that embody true craft, durability and quality are constructed to last for years and years. Think about it: timeless leather bags not only stand the test of time from a styling perspective; in terms of cost per wear, they become more valuable and worth the investment each time you wear them.

Style Tip: Are you looking to give new life to a pre-owned or upcrafted bag, or have your heart set on a legacy style that is as iconic as it ageless? Make sure to check for certificates of authenticity to ensure that you’re purchasing the real thing. Conversely, are you looking to create a new legacy, starting with your own story? Think about what bag style you envision still using or gifting to a family member years down the road, or that you’d eventually like to enter into resale. Whichever option you choose, the ROI will be as high as the level of quality.