You worked hard and saved some money. Maybe you got a raise or even a nice bonus. Or maybe you just got a much better job and you find yourself living a better lifestyle. Whatever the reason may be, you decided that now is a good time to get your first designer handbag. How exciting!

There are many reasons why people buy designer handbags but I think the main one has to do with style. We all want to be unique in some way. And if you are a fashion lover (which I suspect you are) buying a designer bag is a great way to add sophistication to your closet.

If it’s your first time, you’ll find the process a bit overwhelming. Not only there are many designers to choose from but the price range can vary greatly. How do you know which ones are a good investment and which ones are not?

It helps with your choice to narrow it down to a list of your favorites designers first, and from there you can decide if they match your personal style. You probably already have a pretty good idea of what you want so this part should be easy. Take a look at which bag is your favorite from each designer. Think about which ones best match your lifestyle and realistically, think about how much use you can get out of this bag.

1. Find the right color

The next thing you should consider is the color. Start thinking in terms of practicality. It wouldn’t make much sense to get a super bright color for your first designer handbag. Colors like pink, red, blue, or even green are fun and exciting, but if you are going to spend a sizeable amount of money on a bag, shouldn’t you get the most use out of it?

Colors like that most likely won’t match the majority of the things you have in your closet.  For that reason, it would make more sense to start your collection with basic colors such as black, white, and neutrals such as browns and nudes. They don’t compete with other colors and they are easy to match. As time goes on, and you start to add to your collection, you can start experimenting with different colors and be more creative with patterns as well.

2. Find the right shape

Another thing to consider is the shape of your bag.  It’s always a good idea to go with classic shapes instead of trendy ones. Trends come and go, and if you get a trendy shape for your first bag, most likely you won’t be able to use it for very long.

3. Choose your favorite designer

It all comes down to the designer that best matches your personality. Truly, is a matter of personal taste. I started my collection with a vintage Chanel 2.55  flap bag in beige. Channel is famous for its minimal chic approach and its bags are classy and timeless. Think of them as the “black little dress” of designer handbags. Fun fact: Coco Chanel was the one who instituted the idea of “black little dress” as a basic necessity in any woman’s closet.

Because Chanel bags are so iconic, they never go out of style. I also like the simple yet sophisticated look they can add to an outfit, making them perfect for almost every occasion. If you’re thinking about getting a Chanel for your first bag, you won’t regret it. This is a bag that continues to accrue value over time – unlike many others — so you’ll always feel like you made a good investment.

My second favorite is Gucci. Whether you’re a Gucci girl or not you’ve probably noticed this designer has gained more popularity over recent years with a revitalized line of a new fresh aesthetic design. My favorite one is the GG Supreme Dionysus. This bag is such a beauty, and while still paying homage to Gucci’s roots of classy luxury it seems to combine it with a vintage flair. The various styles and prints are the true selling point of this designer. Lastly, another one to consider if you’re thinking about going with Gucci for your first bag is the GG Marmont, which is a simple yet practical crossbody bag.

Louis Vuitton is another personal favorite of mine. It has been very popular for decades and it’s a house with many iconic bags. What I like about LV’s is the simple and casual design which makes them perfect for everyday use.

I own — what it’s now — one of the most iconic and popular bags of their collection: the Neverfull tote. What I like the most about this bag, is the fact that it has a very spacious interior, which is perfect for work or just to go shopping.

You can fit a lot inside this bag which gives you the impression that it never gets full — hence the name. It’s roomy, yet not bulky and can be worn with almost everything.  The Neverfull is available in both leather and canvas, and also in Damier Ebene and Damier Azur. They came in three different sizes, small, medium and large which gives you even more choices. You also have the option to chose the color of the interior lining of the bag. Currently, there are three choices available: red, brown and pink.

Another popular LV bag is the Speedy. This bag has been around for what it seems like forever and it has an interesting history behind it.  Louis Vuitton, in its earlier days, only made travel bags and luggage. The Speedy was one of their most popular travel bags and only came in one size. Actress Audrey Hepburn, who was one of the most famous actresses of her time, was a big fan of the brand. She made a request to Louis Vuitton to make a smaller version of the Speedy for everyday use. The bag became so popular, that it became a symbol of a decade.  Nowadays the Speedy is still one of the most popular LV’s bags and it’s available in four different sizes: Speedy 25, Speedy 30, Speedy 35, and Speedy 40.

Prada is another famous design and a favorite of mine. Although I don’t own a Prada myself, my favorite bag is the Saffiano. This one, in particular, is a bit more wallet-friendly than the Chanel 2.55.  It’s better fitted for a younger person than the Hermes Birkin and more work-appropriate than the Lady Dior. What I like about the Saffianos are the straight lines and the clean edges. It’s a great work bag and because of its many compartments, great for an active lifestyle as well.

Another great designer to consider is Chloe. This designer has a habit of creating cult handbags. They are sleek and chic, with a throwback glamour that just makes you fall in love with the whole collection. I got myself the small wallet size Faye Chloe and I love this bag! It’s very practical for everyday use and if you don’t have tons of money to spend on a designer bag, the Faye Chloe is a great first-time option. Not only because of its size but also its price tag makes it surprisingly affordable.

Ultimately, the choice is yours.  I hope I helped you narrow down your choices with these tips. Remember to ask yourself important questions before you make your final decision. Things like: Does it match my style and personality? Will I love this bag a year from now? Can it be passed down? Do I really love this bag or I think I love it because someone told me to love it?

Have fun with the process, and enjoy your new bag!

XOXO