2021’s Most Popular Bags to Buy

With everyone sharing their 2021 wrapped, we’re sharing our own deep dive – but this time, into this year’s top-selling handbags! 

At FASHIONPHILE, we’ve sold more Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes, Gucci, and Saint Laurent items this year than ever before. If you’re curious to learn more, our latest Ultra-Luxury Resale Report shares everything you need to know about resale value and the brands to buy for a worthwhile investment. 

If you’re looking to add a new addition to your collection (aren’t we all), consider a handbag that truly holds its value. We rounded up the top 5 most popular handbags to buy. These styles have maintained their top 5 rankings compared to 2020, which means when it comes to demand they’re going strong. Plus, these cult faves have proven that they’re the definition of timeless. After all, a timeless bag that never goes out of style is surely a bag worth every penny. 

So whether you tote around town with one (or one of each), these most popular designer handbags never disappoint. Enjoy them now, sell them later, or keep them for future generations. Whatever you do with them, just know they’ll never lose their spark. 

Louis Vuitton 

“Sales for Louis Vuitton bags went up 67% this year.”

Curious what the most popular Louis Vuitton handbag is? The Pochette Metis. It comes in a handful of colors and materials. Whether you choose it in the classic Monogram canvas, the Reverse Monogram canvas, or Empreinte leather, this style is a true classic and has jumped in popularity over the last couple of years. 

Since its debut in 2012, the Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis is ideal for carrying the essentials and tackling everyday adventures. The satchel silhouette makes it the perfect compact bag for travel and for work, as well. It’s also a great bag that pays tribute to the brand’s origins of trunk making and crafting briefcases.   

Chanel 

“Sales for Chanel bags went up 96% this year.”

With limited supply and multiple price increases this year alone, it comes as no surprise that sales for Chanel at FASHIONPHILE increased 96%. The most popular Chanel handbag? (This is definitely a no-brainer). The Classic Double Flap, of course. Curious to know the most popular size? When it comes to what fashionphiles bought the most, the Chanel Flap size in Medium is the most popular. 

The rich history and meticulous details behind this ultra-classic silhouette is undeniable. From the diamond quilting to the distinguished CC turn-lock inspired by Coco Chanel’s childhood, this is a legendary style. We can say without a shadow of a doubt that when it comes to investing in ultra-luxury, adding anything Chanel to your cart is totally low risk (because, hello, it’s Chanel and it has proven to hold incredible resale value). 

Hermes 

“Sales for Hermes bags went up 123% this year.”

Sales for Hermes this year increased 123% and the most popular Hermes handbag? The Hermes Evelyne –  specifically the Evelyne in the TPM size. Not too big, not too small and the price point is fairly within reach in terms of Hermes. The Evelyne is surely a silhouette that will never go out of fashion. You can find most of these Hermes styles under $5,000, too. 

But for those really looking to add an investment to their collection, take a look at our first-time investor’s guide to Hermes and the best color to buy.  Spoiler alert: it involves Birkin bags. 

Gucci 

“Sales for Gucci bags went up 73% this year.”

And the most popular Gucci bag? The Soho Disco bag. Although there is a Mini size, most people have bought the Small. This soft-bodied camera bag style leather crossbody is perfect for everyday use. 

Released the same year as the Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis, the love for the Gucci Soho Disco bag is clearly still going strong. Beloved for its luxurious features which include a tassel zipper pull and embossed interlocking G logo, the Soho Disco bag is the definition of understated elegance and practicality. There is so much to love about Gucci. Learn more about the brand’s origins, here. 

Saint Laurent 

“Sales for Saint Laurent bags went up 88% this year.”

The most popular Saint Laurent bag at FASHIONPHILE is the Monogram Chain Wallet. This envelope-style bag can be easily spotted a mile away for its distinguished metal YSL logo and chevron quilting. It features multiple card slots, two central compartments, and of course a gorgeous chain shoulder strap. What makes this bag so particularly popular is its construction. The Chain Wallet is clearly made with the intention to suit the needs of any individual looking for the perfect versatile bag that can take them from day to night and everywhere in between. 

So if you want to make a smart choice, invest in a handbag that you love first and foremost. Rest assured, ultra-luxury handbags come with promises of both long-term desirability and longevity. If you’re not sure where to begin, you can never go wrong with investing in one of these top-selling bags. Start shopping today.