If you were going to get one designer handbag to last for life, which one would it be?

[Linguaphile]

Just that, really! I’m looking for a classic bag and would like something I could keep in the rotation and still look chic using in 15-20 years. Obviously the Chanel 2.55 and the classic Birkin come to mind (though the latter is definitely out of my budget), but what others are there to consider? Bonus points for versatility. Mulberry Bayswater perhaps?

It isn’t a classic handbag but I still use my LV Speedy which I’ve had since 1997. I’ve also got one of their hold-alls which I’ve had since 1999 and use when we go away by car. I have a Bayswater but I feel that is much more fashionable/unfashionable so doesn’t have the longevity.

I'm waiting for this to come back in stock, will have to order from Japan. The quality is amazing. Wish I'd bought one when I was in Tokyo a couple of years ago.

postalco.com/en/collections/%E3%83%90%E3%83%83%E3%82%B0/products/mail_bag_small

I agree with the above. An aged and well worn classic LV is timeless and looks better and better as it ages. Obviously also a Chanel. A classic Gucci will probably always come back round again although I’m not crazy about them

I don’t think of mulberry in the same vein. They’re more contemporary and do date

@LizziesTwin I know loads of people love the speedy and the neverfull, but personally I’m not so keen on the LV branding all over the bag.

A classic Chanel, every time.

I also have a 90s LV Speedy I use a lot still.

There is never the perfect bag.

I would say Bayswater, but the old style one, and try it out for weight as it is quite heavy. Also, if you are like me, your bag will be full whatever the size.

I love my LV pochette Metis in black, it's just the perfect size, works with smart or casual. Very comfortable to use and zip pocket on the back for easy access to my phone. I've also got the tan which is great in summer, especially with the matching Neverful tote for travelling- I think it's a classic. I also love my Mulberrys but find the LV bags easy to clean and durable.

I have a Coach Elise satchel. It's big enough for every day use (fits a water bottle - a must!) but it dresses up an outfit nicely too with the gold fittings. The leather is buttery soft now that it's worn in, I've been really happy with it.

uk.coach.com/coach-elise-satchel/79316.html

Just look at which bags sell for good money after you have bought them. Chanel, Dior and some LV. The speedy is cheap and loses its shape so avoid for longevity. You cannot keep a Chanel 2/55 looking like new either. Mulberry is utterly dated! Except on MN that’s still banging on about them!

Bottega Veneta or Gucci or Loewe are all ok if you pick a classic design.

I’ve got a YSL satchel (can’t remember what it’s called) that is a bit small for everyday but it works well as it stops me carrying round a lot of junk. It has a dark metal chain strap which I think is more versatile than gold.

I was in Selfridges on Friday @PresentingPercy and stopped at the Bottega Venetta concession, I was quite disappointed. The bags looked too 'now' - the big pudgy quilted versions, beautiful but will look dated. I've got the dark grey traditional woven across the body from years ago which still looks good. I love modern bags but the classics you bring out time again, I think Mulberry aren't dated unless you choose rascal colours. Mulberry in black, tan or oxblood will stand the test of time and they are so well made, beautiful hard wearing leather, all of mine look better than when they were new.

If money was no object, a black Hermès. Preferably Birkin.

@Throughabushbackwards that is a beautiful bag, really classic.

I have a Mulberry Lily, quite understated but I went for the red as I love how it can really finish off an outfit.

I'm not really into bags but, if I was and I had the budget, I would get one custom made.

I always find myself admiring Bottega Veneta bags. I don't get the Mulberry obsession on Mumsnet. Such a boring brand.

I was really meaning the woven Bottega Veneta as a classic. Pudgy quilt copies are everywhere!

I find MN in the main is very dated in bag recommendations. Or Mulberry have amazing marketing! Their bags are well made but they are everywhere. LV logo has the same issue. Ditto Gucci logos too. Better to get a real classic and avoid too many logos!

Ive been lusting after a Celine bag forever, the small Cabas Phantom or a Triomphe, the new Tabou is nice too.

Classic Chanel or Hermes (bolide, jypsiere or evelyn and not necessarily kelly or birkin). I have bought a load of brands and only stopped buying after I got what I truly wanted. No handbag purchases now since 2017 as a result.

Mulberry Alexa

Tbh if you can afford a classic black Chanel, I'd get it.

I saw an elderly lady at a "do" once who had one and looked so chic. I found out years later from the host, she actually was fairly skint and her chic suit was cheap and the bag was decades old. Yet I remembered her and her bag all that time.

It's the sort of magic bag that confers an aura of luxury on you.

For day - LV Neverful Epi Leather in a classic colour

For night - Chanel Classic flap in black lambskin and silver hardware.

@ElspethFlashman

Tbh if you can afford a classic black Chanel, I'd get it.

I saw an elderly lady at a "do" once who had one and looked so chic. I found out years later from the host, she actually was fairly skint and her chic suit was cheap and the bag was decades old. Yet I remembered her and her bag all that time.

It's the sort of magic bag that confers an aura of luxury on you.

True, if you like Chanel bags. I don't particularly like them though plenty of people on MN love them.

I wouldn’t. A relative with dementia peed on my handbag.it cost £40 from TKMaxx, I can be philosophical about it. I can’t imagine how I’d feel if I had a Hermes bag that smelt of wee...

Not in the same league as most on here but I love my coach shay bag it's my definite perfect bag!