Papped on the arms of It-girls, splashed across the pages of glossy magazines and lusted-after by teenage girls–no I’m not talking about a Hollywood heartthrob, rather the (not so humble) designer bag. Whether it’s the Fendi Baguette or the Hermès Kelly, the designer bag hall of fame is lined with icons, some named after the glamorous women who carried them and others instantly recognisable by their silhouette alone. But, what is notable about the new pieces being added to the line-up is that they are being sourced from the archive–think Prada’s re-issue nylon collection, or Gucci’s Diana bag. And, unsurprisingly, this is driving-up interest in the vintage originals.
“Vestiaire Collective has seen continual growth for classic styles across brands”, the resale site states. “For example, the Fendi Baguette saw a 33 per cent increase in sales over the last year, peaking in March 2022 soon after their Autumn/Winter 2022 collection showed at Milan Fashion Week.”
With new (and immaculately curated) resale platforms opening every day and designer brands limiting releases of new models, the demand for pre-loved designer bags has never been greater – or more accessible. Sellier Knightsbridge, the number one reseller of Hermès in the UK, has seen bags selling out within days due to the scarcity of new styles. The most expensive ever sold was an Hermès Kelly that fetched £15,000 – three times its RRP. Evidently, the designer bag resale market is booming at both ends of the spectrum.
So which pre-loved designer bags are people buying right now? We asked around some of the top bag resale sites to find out. Scroll down to see and shop this season’s hottest high-end, pre-loved totes.
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The Hermès Kelly and Birkin
“This is a piece which has rocketed in popularity this year. First popularised by Grace Kelly, the Hermès Kelly bag appeals to both investors and first time buyers alike. We have seen sales of this model jump by 50 per cent.” – Sellier Knightsbridge.
“Hermes accessories are a real investment and will always stand the test of time. Their limited availability only adds to their desirability and it is always worth hunting for that special piece. The pink pouchette is a playful piece while the black picotin is timeless. The Birkin is always in demand – the very best in craftsmanship, elegant, recognisable and always chic. These are real collectors items.” – Clare Richardson, Founder, Reluxe.
Buy it here.
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The Fendi Baguette
“The Fendi Baguette saw a 33 per cent increase in sales over the last year, peaking in March 2022 soon after their Autumn/Winter 2022 collection showed at Milan Fashion Week.” – Vestiaire Collective
Buy it here.
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The Louis Vuitton Murakami Print
“Y2K Fashion remains a firm favourite for vintage lovers. The Louis Vuitton Murakami collaboration defined the era and remains the ultimate collaboration for the house. Amongst the most popular models are the white nano-speedy bags in multi colour print, as seen on Kylie Jenner, and the multi-pochette bag with the cerise (cherry) design. Sales are up 30 per cent.” – Sellier Knightsbridge.
“Typically a Louis Vuitton bag will be bought within two days of it going up online on our website.” – Sign Of The Times.
Buy it here.
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Prada Re-Edition
“Prada is one of our most popular brands, and the Re-Edition line is right at the top of the list.” – Sign Of The Times.
Buy it here.
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Louis Vuitton Neverfull
“Louis Vuitton Neverfull and Speedy leading sales. Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull saw a 50 per cent increase in sales in the last 12 months, with sales peaking in May 2022.” – Vestiaire Collective.
“The three most popular bags we see are quilted flap crossbody bags, totes and camera bags, and Louis Vuitton’s Neverfulls are a style we receive lots of.” – The Restory.
Buy it here.
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Gucci Marmont
“The family that sits within the Marmont style has seen 8 per cent growth due to the resurgence of seasonal variations in shape and size. A functional and stylish everyday bag, included within it the flap and camera with a strong entry price point for the aspirational customer alongside the high cash spenders who drive the larger, stylish iterations of the style, making it desirable and accessible year on year.” – Rachel Reavley, Hardly Ever Worn It.
Buy it here.
This story was originally published on British Vogue.
