Cult bags we predict will be around for a long time
The bags to invest in without breaking the bank
By Debby Kwong & Shazrina Shamsudin -
You’ve seen them all over Instagram — serving as arm candy for fashion influencers and It girls alike. So now we’ve hunted them down and curated the best, timeless (and affordable) bags to own now.
They’re functional, stylish and designed for the modern trendsetter. We expect these bags to be around (and as stylish as ever) for a long, long time.
By Far Rachel mini chain-embellished croc-effect leather shoulder bag, about $365 from Net-A-Porter
A style adored by many influencers and fashionistas across the globe, the Rachel mini shoulder bag from By Far, is a timeless piece that will last you through the years. Pair it with your favourite sleek silk dress or opt for that '90s inspired look that works just as well today.
Available at Net-A-Porter
Loeffler Randall Marleigh crystal-embellished satin shoulder bag, about $337 from Net-A-Porter
If you love Prada's Satin mini-bag with artificial crystals, then you'll definitely dig this. This embellished satin handbag by Loeffler Randall arrives covered in light-catching crystals and boasts a spacious interior so you can fit all your essentials — including your phone, hand sanitiser, wallet and keys into one. Elevate your next girls night out in an instant with this stunning must-have.
Available at Net-A-Porter
Whether you're looking for a stylish clutch or bag that's similar to Bottega Veneta's highly raved Pouch, this Bean style by STAUD is one worth splashing on. Apart from its simple and minimalist design, the bag also comes with a detachable strap and doubles as a shoulder bag and a clutch. Who said you can't have the best of both worlds?
Available at Net-A-Porter
If you prefer something a little more plush, look over to this find by A.W.A.K.E. Mode. With the current pillow bag trend that's now in vogue, silhouettes like this pick are definitely all the rage. Made from faux leather that's thickly padded, the bag is soft and squishy, and features a satin-lined interior along with snap fastening.
Available at Net-A-Porter
Mansur Gavriel’s bucket bags have been a hit since 2013, and even seen on celebrities such as Karlie Kloss, Reese Witherspoon and Emma Stone. Made in Italy, all these bucket bags are unlined so they don’t weigh you down.
Available at Mansur Gavriel
Paravel Stowaway collapsible leather trimmed canvase suitcase, about $705 from Matches Fashion
An exclusive to Net-A-Porter, this fun and functional collapsible suitcase allows you plenty of space when you need more baggage allowance at the end of your holiday.
Available at Matches Fashion
Made in Barcelona by local artisans using local materials, this cut-out leather bag is based on the plastic shopping baskets used in the Mediterranean.
Available at Farfetch
Join the cult-obsessed with the Ark bag. Available in four sizes, you can get the extra small for a cute clutch, or go with the large as a carryall.
Available at Cult Gaia
Have fun with shapes with the Azar — named after the ninth month of the Iranian calendar. The circular bag is handcrafted in Spain from suede and features bold geometric hardware at the wrist strap.
Available at Tara Zadeh
Velvet will forever and always be favourite material of designers, and the drawstring bag is a huge trend for FW18. Available in a range of colours, from silver, to hunter green and black.
Available at Moda Operandi
The Hortensia has two compartments that helps you keep all your essentials organised. Remove the shoulder strap and it becomes a fabulous top handle bag.
Available at Net-A-Porter
A bucket bag that’s dressed up with a chic circular handle, this is a statement piece that will complement any minimalist ensemble.
Launched in February 2014, Manu Atelier was co-founded by Beste and Merve Manastır, the daughters of one of the oldest handcraftsmen and leather goods manufacturers in Istanbul.
Designed for daily use, the Fernweh’s two adjustable straps let you carry it over the shoulder or as a backpack.
Each handcrafted woven raffia bag takes eight to ten hours to make. Made in Brazil, this delightful Mikonos bag is a must-have for a beach getaway.
Clean, roomy and elegant, the Amphora leather tote ticks all the boxes for what every woman wants for her everyday bag.
Available at Net-A-Porter
All the items are independently selected by our editorial team. If you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. But we only recommend products we love. Promise.