There's no fashion status symbol quite like a designer handbag [1]. From Chanel to Gucci and Louis Vuitton, the iconic logos and shapes are the epitome of lust-worthy. With every new season, designers give cult classics a fresh spin via new colours and fabrics and/or debut a new It silhouette to drive the masses wild. Both scenarios typically cause uproarious squeals or palpable pitter-patters of the heart.
For Spring 2020 [2], some of our favourite luxury labels are delivering on incredible bags worthy of an investment with incredible detail and craftsmanship to boot. Take Bottega Veneta [3], for example. The buzzy Italian label's new Cassette Bag — which debuted for Fall 2019 — is at once classic and contemporary, taking inspiration from luxury car interiors of the 1970s whilst employing an innovative design technique (the woven leather is made with a specialised high-frequency heat-sealing technique to create the exaggerated and puffy appearance). Then there's Gucci [4]'s 1955 Horsebit bag which debuted for Cruise 2020. A reimagined take on an archival style, this sleek and structured bag is modelled from the same shoulder-style shape which launched over six decades ago, featuring equestrian-inspired hardware, sophisticated internal compartments, and a mechanism to adjust the length of the shoulder strap so it can be carried on one shoulder or crossbody. Talk about artistry and craftsmanship.
Whether you're planning to splurge this Spring or simply want to scroll on for some eye candy, ahead, find 12 luxurious designer bags [5] we're majorly here for in 2020.
Chanel 19 Large Flap Bag
Paying tribute to the 2.55 bag created in February 1955 by Coco Chanel, the new Chanel 19 Large Flap Bag [7] ($5,600), is the 2020 take on the French house's iconic quilting and double C's. Crafted from ultra-supple leather, the rectangular flap bag features maxi diamond quilting, a large curb chain (either in gold metal or a trio of finishes that transition from silver to aged gold to ruthenium), and — the detail de résistance — two interlocking C's.
Bottega Veneta Padded Casette Bag
With an almost cartoonish quality that feels at once playful and polished, Bottega Veneta's Padded Casette Bag [8] ($2,800) is both high-tech and handcrafted. It's made with a high-frequency heat-sealing technique that brings a forward-looking perspective to the Italian label's heritage of craftsmanship and innovation. To wit, the triangular hardware is nearly a status symbol all its own, though the rectangular shape is already one beloved by celebrities and influencers from Rihanna [9] to Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
Gucci 1955 Horsebit Shoulder Bag
A modern reinterpretation of a 1950's original, Gucci's 1955 Horsebit Shoulder Bag [10] ($2,490) is sleek, yet statement-making. With clean lines to feel and fresh and modern, the neoclassical influence comes through in the horsebit hardware composed of a double ring and bar.
Prada Bucket Bag With Large Woven Motif
Woven leather is a huge trend for 2020, which is why we love Prada's Bucket Bag With Large Woven Motif [11] ($2,200) in optic white to pop against bright colours and neutrals alike. Even better, the bag comes with a removable pouch and shoulder strap.
Celine Medium Camarat Bag
Sleek with a bohemian attitude, the Celine Medium Camarat Bag [12] ($2,700) is the French house's newest handbag style (the name nods to Saint Tropez). The buckle detail takes inspiration from an archival 1967 belt, which at the time, was a signature of fashion icons like Brigitte Bardot, Jane Birkin, and Jacqueline Bizet.
Fendi Peek-A-Boo X-Lite Medium Gray Leather Bag
At once timeless and modern, the Fendi Peek-A-Boo X-Lite Medium Gray Leather Bag [13] ($3,980) is a working woman's secret weapon. With a single handle, detachable shoulder strap, and spacious interior, an iconic twist lock punctuates the medium-sized top-handle for sleek sophistication.
The Row Large Slouchy Banana Bag
Minimal and pristine, The Row's Large Slouchy Banana Bag [14] ($2,150) is our 2020 obsession as far as uniquely shaped carryalls are concerned. Toss this one over your shoulder or wear it crossbody for hand-free style.
Louis Vuitton NéoNoé Bag
The LV logo is forever iconic and the Louis Vuitton NéoNoé Bag [15] ($1,650) is a clean yet playful take thanks to sleek bucket shape and colourful drawstring and interior. This style also references an archival classic designed in 1932 to transport bottles of Champagne.
Khaite The Aimee Clutch
A standout on the runway for Spring 2019, the Khaite The Aimee Clutch [16] ($1,260) is softly shaped but brings structure to any look thanks to the elegant brass frame with an engraved clasp closure. With a laissez-faire spirit, tuck this under your arm on carefree days and for evenings out.
Loewe Balloon Small Bag
A masterful take on mixed-material design, Loewe's Balloon Small Bag [17] ($2,250) is a luxurious leather-and-canvas bag for warm weather. With a structured bucket shape that's at once relaxed, this bag can seamlessly go from the cubicle to the cabana.
Proenza Schouler Buckle Mini Crossbody Bag
Defined by the exaggerated buckle, the Proenza Schouler Buckle Mini Crossbody Bag [18] ($995) comes with a bohemian spirit but is made for sleek city style. The colorblock design ensures this neutral-coloured crossbody stands out whether worn with Earthy tones top-to-toe or a vibrant print.
Dior Black and Beige Houndstooth Embroidered Book Tote
The ultimate carryall for the beach or weekend jaunts, the Dior Black and Beige Houndstooth Embroidered Book Tote [19] ($3,000) was another runway standout. The natural qualities of this tote tie back to the Spring/Summer 2020 collection's theme of sustainability wherein creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri worked with the Paris-based environmental design collective Coloco to ensure the trees used for the runway show were to be planted around the city.