MDP's top classic handbags worth the buy

A handbag is an investment. Choose and purchase wisely and you'll have an accessory that you can wear for years to come and even pass down. In honor of my favorite accessory, I've listed some of the top three classic handbags that are worth having in your closet over time. (Note: I only chose to discuss three bags. I know that there are other bags considered iconic or essential but they simply aren't my taste and subjective to opinion. This list reflects the bags I really, truly love and would actually buy/or already own myself. I have to keep it real!)

Photo: Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel/ voguehk.com

Photo: Classic handbag/ Chanel.com

With a history that dates back to 1955, the Chanel handbag is one of the most iconic handbags worthy of carrying. It all started with the 2.55 quilted leather flap bag. The original bag didn't have the logo as the lock closure as we see commonly today but would later be added.

The details are what make this bag special. Creator of the Chanel fashion house, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel drew inspiration from her past in the details of creating the bag. The burgundy interior represents the color of her uniform as a child while the double-flap inside signifies her childhood spent in an orphanage.

Although the signature bag is offered in various styles, fabrics and colors, the classic black leather bag (available in classic, small, large and maxi sizes) is the ultimate. If you’re a serious handbag lover, owning a Chanel bag at some point is a must.

Photo: Speedy 25/pinterest.com

Photo: Speedy 25/pinterest.com

Louis Vuitton’s  “Speedy” bag is another one with a rich history. It is one of the first designer bags I remember my mom owning when I was a little girl so it sticks with me. Louis Vuitton was initially known for making travel bags and trunks, featuring its signature lock system.

That all changed when the “Keepall” travel bag was turned into an everyday handbag to carry. But it saw one more upgrade before really making its mark. Introduced in 1930, the “Speedy” was originally offered in the 30 cm size.

However in 1959, that would change when the fashion house created the 25 cm size, at the request of actress and fashion icon, Audrey Hepburn. Today, you can buy this legendary bag in the sizes of mini, 25, 30 and 35 and is even sold in versions that have a shoulder strap. To me, it's essential and among my two favorite styles of bags offered by Louis Vuitton. The 30 is a classic but the 25 cm size offers just enough room without being too much to carry. I love it!

Photo: Google Searach/Marie Claire UK

Photo: Google Searach/Marie Claire UK

In 1995, Bernadette Chirac who is the wife of the late and former President of France, Jacques Chirac wanted to present Princess Diana with a special gift during her visit for the opening of a Cézanne exhibition. Chirac reached out  to the house of Christian Dior for this gift and the result would become the perfect little bag.

It would go on to be named Lady Dior. Princess Diana's Lady Dior was top-stitched with the Cannage motif (inspired by the Napoleon III chairs that Dior used in his very first fashion show in 1947), made of lambskin black leather, had gold hard-ware and a rounded handle with the dangling letter charms. Like all great bags, it has evolved over time; it is now made in a plethora of colors, fabrics and different sizes.

 I really like the original because it's such at he perfect size but would be tempted to go non-traditional with the color like a pastel pink. It's such an elegant and luxurious bag, filled with beautiful details like Chanel's 2.55 flap bag.