Vintage bags are an exciting way to invest your hard-earned money. Not only will you get the pleasure of owning a timeless and unique piece, but vintage bags can also be highly sought-after and appreciated in value over time. With many fashion trends returning from decades ago, the demand for vintage bags shows no signs of stopping. Here we’ll take a closer look at vintage bags as an investment.
As we wrote in an earlier article, vintage items have risen in popularity lately due to several reasons. Firstly, the nostalgia factor plays a significant role. Many people are drawn to vintage items because they remind them of a simpler time or particular era they are fond of. Additionally, vintage items are often made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship that are no longer common in modern manufacturing.
Vintage items also have a unique character and charm that cannot be replicated in mass-produced products. A growing awareness of the impact of fast fashion and consumerism on the environment leading many people to seek sustainable alternatives such as vintage clothing and furniture. As we will explore in this article, certain vintage items can also offer good opportunities as an investment.
Why Vintage Bags Can Be A Good Investment
There are several reasons why vintage bags can be a good investment. Here are a few of them:
- Rarity: Vintage bags are often limited in number and may no longer be produced, making them a rare and valuable item.
- Brand recognition: Vintage bags from well-known luxury brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes are highly sought-after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts, making them even more valuable.
- Quality craftsmanship: Vintage bags are often made from high-quality materials and feature intricate details that are difficult to replicate in modern mass-produced items.
- Timelessness: Vintage bags often feature classic designs that have stood the test of time and remain relevant in fashion trends.
- Price appreciation: Over time, vintage bags can increase in value, particularly if they are well-maintained and in good condition. As a result, they can be a good investment for those looking to diversify their portfolios.
Overall, investing in vintage bags can be a great way to combine a love of fashion with a smart investment strategy. However, it is essential to do thorough research before investing in vintage items. Read more about what to consider when investing in vintage bags below.
Best Vintage Bags As An Investment
Here are some of the most popular vintage bag brands that have stood the test of time and continue to be highly sought after by fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Not only do they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit, but they also have the potential to be a great investment.
Hermès
Hermès is one of the most iconic brands in the luxury fashion industry, renowned for its handcrafted leather goods, including their highly sought-after bags. Established in 1837 in Paris, the brand has a rich heritage and has become synonymous with high quality and timeless elegance. The Hermès bag collection includes iconic styles, such as the Birkin, Kelly, and Constance, each meticulously crafted by skilled artisans using the finest materials.
One of the reasons why Hermès is so highly coveted among vintage bags as an investment is their exclusivity. The brand is known for its limited production runs, meaning its bags are not easily available to everyone. There are often waiting lists for specific styles, and the prices can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Despite the high price point, many luxury fashion enthusiasts and collectors consider Hermès bags investment pieces, as their value often appreciates over time. Furthermore, the impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each bag ensures that they are beautiful and built to last, making them a true symbol of luxury and sophistication.
The Most Sought-after bags From Hermès:
Hermès Birkin
The Birkin (above) is perhaps the most sought-after bag from Hermès. It was named after the actress Jane Birkin and was created in 1984. This bag has a timeless and classic design that has been popular for several decades.
It is available in various sizes, colours, and materials, with the most popular being the leather versions. The Birkin bag is famous for its exceptional craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and a long waiting list. It is a great investment piece known to increase in value over time.
Hermès Kelly
The Kelly Bag is another classic bag from Hermès that has been popular since the 1930s. It was initially called the “Sac à dépêches” and was renamed after Grace Kelly, who famously used it to conceal her pregnancy from the paparazzi.
The Kelly bag is a structured, top-handle bag with a trapezoidal shape and a distinctive turn-lock closure. It is available in various sizes, colours, and materials, including leather, crocodile, and ostrich. Like the Birkin, the Kelly bag is a great investment piece with a waiting list.
Hermès Constance
The Hermès Constance Bag is a lesser-known but equally stylish bag. It was first introduced in 1959 and was designed by Catherine Chaillet. The Constance has a clean, sleek design with a simple H-shaped clasp. It is available in various sizes and materials, the most popular being the leather versions.
The Constance bag is an excellent investment piece and is often easier to acquire than the Birkin or Kelly. It is an excellent option for those looking for a classic, sophisticated handbag that is not as widely recognized as the Birkin or Kelly.
Chanel
Chanel is a luxury fashion house that has been known for its timeless elegance, sophisticated designs, and exceptional craftsmanship. The brand’s bags are highly coveted by fashion enthusiasts and are considered a symbol of status and style. Chanel’s iconic handbag, the “2.55,” was first introduced in 1955 by Coco Chanel herself, and since then, the brand has continued to innovate and create new styles that capture the essence of the modern woman.
One of the reasons for Chanel’s popularity is the high quality of its bags. Each bag is meticulously crafted using the finest materials, such as lambskin, caviar leather, and tweed, and the hardware is plated with gold or silver for a luxurious finish. The brand’s signature quilting technique and interlocking “CC” logo are instantly recognizable and have become synonymous with the Chanel name.
The brand’s commitment to excellence extends to every detail of their handbags, from the stitching to the lining, ensuring that each piece is not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting. Overall, Chanel handbags represent the pinnacle of luxury and are highly sought after by those who appreciate the finest things in life.
The Most Sought-after Handbags From Chanel:
Chanel Classic Flap Bag
The Classic Flap Bag is perhaps one of the most iconic bags of all time, loved by fashionistas worldwide. The bag was designed by Coco Chanel in 1955, and the updated version launched by Karl Lagerfeld in 1983 remains the most popular today.
The bag features a quilted leather exterior, a signature interlocking CC logo on the front, and a chain-link strap. The Classic Flap Bag comes in various sizes and materials, such as lambskin, caviar leather, and tweed, and its classic and timeless design makes it a safe investment.
Chanel Boy Bag
The Chanel Boy Bag is a more recent addition to the Chanel handbag collection, first launched in 2011 under the creative direction of Karl Lagerfeld. The bag is named after Coco Chanel’s lover, Arthur “Boy” Capel. The Boy Bag features a boxy silhouette with a flap closure and a chunky chain-link strap.
The bag is available in various sizes and materials and has become a favourite of fashion bloggers and celebrities. The bag’s edgy and modern design sets it apart from other Chanel handbags and has proven to be a safe investment.
Chanel 2.55 Flap Bag
The Chanel 2.55 Flap Bag is another classic and timeless design created by Coco Chanel in 1955. The bag was updated by Karl Lagerfeld in 2005 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the bag’s launch.
The 2.55 Flap Bag features a rectangular shape with a quilted leather exterior and a signature Mademoiselle lock, which Coco Chanel designed to represent her independence and rebellion. The bag comes in various sizes and materials, and its classic design and historical significance make it a desirable item among collectors and fashion lovers alike.
Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton is a highly regarded luxury fashion brand specialising in high-end handbags. Founded in Paris in 1854, the brand has become synonymous with luxury, style, and exclusivity. Known for its signature monogram print, LV has established itself as a premier fashion brand focusing on handcrafted luxury goods.
Louis Vuitton bags are highly coveted for their exquisite design, exceptional quality, and unparalleled attention to detail. Each bag is crafted with precision and care, using only the finest materials, including luxurious leathers, exotic skins, and precious metals. The brand’s iconic monogram print is instantly recognizable and adds an element of exclusivity to each piece.
From classic designs like the Speedy and Neverfull to more modern styles like the Twist and Capucines, LV bags are highly sought after by fashion lovers worldwide. With a reputation for unparalleled craftsmanship and timeless elegance, Louis Vuitton continues to set the standard for luxury bags.
The Most Sought-after Bags From Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton Speedy
The Speedy is a classic handbag that has been around since the 1930s. It’s made from the brand’s signature monogram canvas and features two leather handles and a removable shoulder strap.
The bag comes in four sizes, each named after its length in centimetres. The Speedy is a versatile and timeless bag perfect for everyday use.
Louis Vuitton Neverfull
The Neverfull is another classic handbag from Louis Vuitton that’s been around since 2007. It’s made from the brand’s signature monogram canvas and features two leather handles and a drawstring closure.
The bag comes in three sizes and is known for its spacious interior and versatility. The Neverfull is an excellent choice for those needing a bag carrying many essentials.
Louis Vuitton Alma
The Alma is a structured handbag that was first introduced in 1934. It’s made from either Epi leather or the brand’s signature monogram canvas and features a leather top handle and a removable shoulder strap.
The bag comes in four sizes and is known for its classic and sophisticated look. The Alma is a great investment piece for a timeless and elegant bag.
What To Consider When Investing In Vintage Bags
Investing in vintage bags can be a lucrative venture for those with an eye for timeless style and craftsmanship. Here are some important things to consider before making a purchase – especially if you see vintage bags as an investment:
- Condition:
The condition of the vintage bag is crucial when it comes to determining its value. Look for any signs of damage or wear, such as scratches, stains, or tears, and factor this into your decision-making process. A bag in pristine condition will be worth more than one with visible wear and tear. - Brand:
Some brands, such as Hermes, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, have a reputation for producing high-quality and sought-after bags. Consider investing in a vintage bag from a well-known brand, as it will likely hold its value better over time. - Rarity:
The rarer a vintage bag will likely be more valuable. Look for limited edition or discontinued styles, as collectors often covet these. - Authenticity
Make sure that the vintage bag you are considering is authentic. Many counterfeit bags are on the market, so it’s important to research and purchase from a reputable dealer. - Age
The age of a vintage bag can also affect its value. Older bags may be more valuable due to their rarity or historical significance, but they may also be more fragile and prone to damage. - Material
The material of a vintage bag can also impact its value. Leather is a popular choice for high-end bags, but other materials such as suede, canvas, and exotic skins like crocodile or alligator can also add to a bag’s value. - Style
Some vintage bag styles have stood the test of time and remain popular today, such as the Chanel 2.55 or the Hermes Birkin. Consider investing in a classic style that will continue to be in demand. - Size
The size of a vintage bag can also affect its value. Smaller bags, such as clutch purses or mini bags, may be more desirable to collectors and, therefore, more valuable.
