While it’s easy to overuse the term “investment” when it comes to our closets, sometimes there’s good reason to have a long-term mindset. Amid the never-ending microtrend cycle, focusing on timeless pieces that will go the distance (and reduce our need to replenish our wardrobes quite so often) is a savvy, considered and conscious way to build your wardrobe.

So, what exactly makes a designer bag an era-defining, appreciating treasure? “I think it’s got to be easily identifiable, and an iconic style for the brand,” says InStyle Australia market editor Annie Doig. “I also always love pieces that have been featured in a seminal piece of pop culture,” adds the stylist, who cites Carrie Bradshaw’s purple sequin Fendi Baguette and Holly Golightly’s black Chanel 2.55 bag as prime examples. Of course, the most important feature – and what makes the bag a real investment – is quality and craftsmanship. “When you buy these pieces, you can do so knowing that you will want to wear it for decades to come and one day pass it down to your kids. And you know they’ll love it just as much as you do!” Here, we share five timeless investment bags to cherish forever.

Gucci Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag, from $4,650 at Gucci on Ground Floor

When it comes to handbags that stand the test of time, few do it better than Gucci. With their classic Italian craftsmanship and design sensibilities, the iconic house’s design team are often dipping into the archives for inspiration. Such was the case with the Gucci Horsebit – a bag recreated in 2020 from an archival 1995 design. Today, the horse-bit hardware is just as iconic and identifiable as Gucci’s signature GG logo, but slightly more subtle, making it the perfect addition to any quiet luxury-loving closet.

Chanel Boy Bag, from $10,570 at Chanel on Ground Floor

According to Sotheby's, a Chanel bag maintained in excellent condition has the potential to increase in value at about 10-15% per year, making it – in fiscal terms – one of the best sartorial investments out there. But aside from that, this more modern and casual take on the classic flap bag is a sturdy holdall that can give an outfit edge and punk-glamour (while still feeling luxurious).

Burberry TB Bucket Bag, from $1,450 at Burberry on Ground Floor

Exuding sophistication, this masterfully crafted drawcord bucket bag fashioned from luxurious grainy calf leather is the kind of piece you can reach for again and again. Versatile and chic, carry it gracefully by the top handle or opt for hands-free convenience by wearing it as a crossbody bag with the detachable, adjustable strap.

Wanda bag, from $2,650 at Ferragamo on Ground Floor

Maximilian Davis has won widespread praise for how he has reimagined house classics at Ferragamo. This includes the Wanda, a bag that was first introduced in 1988 and named after Salvatore Ferragamo’s wife. With a high-shine exterior and boxy ‘80s silhouette, it’s a practical and perfectly proportioned proposition for those looking for something that exudes eternal and effortless Italian glamour with a sense of ease.

Fendi Baguette Bag, from $7,500 at Fendi on Ground Floor

As the saying goes, “It’s not just a bag. It’s a Baguette!” With its ties to the fictional style icon Carrie Bradshaw, the Fendi Baguette has reached unparalleled fame. Its popularity has only grown over the years, and today, the Baguette remains a collector’s item beloved for its decadent impracticality, 90s nostalgia and undeniable wow-factor.