I’m A Fashion Expert, Here Are The 8 Best Designer Handbags I’d Invest In

I bought myself the Celine Box Bag when my daughter was born seven years ago. Not a classic maternity leave purchase, I know, but a true classic bag. Years later, I still wear and love it. Originally designed by Phoebe Philo, it was one of the few bags that Hedi Slimane kept when he came into Celine and rebranded the luxury house. I think that tells you all you need to know about it. Free from logos or branding, it is a minimalist dream - and that’s what means I don’t think it’ll ever date.

'Tory Burch's Marshmallow Satchel is honestly the handbag version of my BFF. Its roomy twin pockets mean that you can genuinely carry a hardback book, as well as all your tech essentials, without breaking a sweat, while its slightly 'off' shade of brown lends a bit of flair to otherwise basic outfits. My only criticism is that it's started to wear ever so slightly on the handles, piped edges and bottom corners, places you'd expect to see defects after carrying something day in, day out' - Natalie Hammond, Grazia's senior fashion news editor

'J&M Davidson's Small Ray Bucket only has one downside in my opinion, which is that, with no closure, it's perhaps not the most secure design when it comes to designer handbags. Other than that, it's the perfect combination of practical (it has plenty of room for a book, a sunglasses case and a small make-up bag) and playful (its shape is inspired by a sting ray)' - Natalie Hammond

'There’s something I find very satisfying about the classic Chanel Flap Bag – the very fact that it is an enduring success after all this time is testament to the brilliant simplicity of its design. It’s easy – there’s enough room for anything, plus the strap can be adjusted so you can carry it in multiple different ways – but still adds polish to an outfit. Fashion can become preoccupied with trends which are, by their very nature, transient, so when one item prevails in popularity to the extent of Chanel’s classic bag, there’s a very good reason for that. It is a huge investment, it has to be said, particularly at the moment as prices are climbing ever higher, but you can sometimes find really great deals on pre-loved sites like Vestiaire and Vinted. I’d even recommend eBay because it has its authenticity guarantee in place, so you know exactly what you’re getting' - Hannah Banks-Walker, Grazia's head of fashion commerce.

'It's rare for me to find something that seamlessly blends functionality and fashion, but the JW Anderson Bumper Bag does just that! For the past two years, it has been my go-to companion for fashion weeks, nights out, and summer holidays. The craftsmanship is outstanding, and the thin leather strap beautifully contrasts with the bag's unique sculptural design. Though available in various sizes, I opted for the Bumper-15, which perfectly fits all my essentials - even a small umbrella' - Gavi Weiss, Grazia's fashion assistant

'‘The Gucci Bamboo 1947 bag is an homage to the brand’s elegant Italian heritage. And, as it turns out, the small version is also the perfect going out bag, albeit devoid of any sparkles. It’s a classic with a tad of flair. I will say that it requires precision-like packing and editing skills as the size that I’ve gone for doesn’t hold too much. That doesn’t take away from its timeless appeal though - I knew it wouldn’t fit a lot when I opted for the smaller size. If a mini bag that ages like a fine wine is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with this one' - Henrik Lischke, Grazia's senior fashion features editor

‘Those with a proclivity for designer handbags will know, there’s nothing quite like a Chanel bag. And if you ask me, the more unusual the style, the better. Thankfully Chanel doesn’t just deliver on the classic quilted leather front but brings out seasonal styles in many colourways and variations, some more bonkers than others. I personally love a fuzzy tweed style - it’s the perfect combination of chic-cum-edgy' - Henrik Lischke

'‘I’ll admit, I have a weakness for shoulder bags. And for supersized tote bags. For bags in general. But in all the bags I’ve carried, there isn’t one that I cherish as much as the classic Triomphe by Celine. It was created in 2018 by Hedi Slimane and the clasp is a reinterpretation of the brand’s ‘70s logo. Why do I love it? It’s elegant without being too ornate, simple but not too minimal, has a point of difference but doesn’t scream ‘designer’ in your face. It is - in short - the perfect bag, and (if like me you like to carry too many things around with you at all times) holds more than you would think. I can attest to that: I’ve brought it with me to fashion week and it was a true saviour that worked in any setting, which meant that I only had to bring one bag with me - Henrik Lischke