In a retail world that is more circular than ever before, choosing a bag that will increase in value (both in dollars and in your heart) is wise. But there’s a science to said pursuit. “There are several characteristics to take note of when determining a bag’s resale value,” shares McSweeney of The Real Real. “Does the bag have visible elements that are classic or iconic to the brand? Think monogramming or identifiable logo hardware. Additionally, does it have any other apparent brand signifiers that are renowned to that brand’s DNA?” And there’s one last characteristic that is well-reflected in The Row’s coveted Margaux as Chanel’s Graffiti On The Pavement series: “If the bag is limited in production or can be considered a collectible, that typically increases resale value.”
Tedrick of Fashionphile adds that a brand’s prices also play a role in its resale value. “Increases in resale value are closely correlated with the brands’ price increases, making these bags not only fashion statements, but also smart investments for those who own them. Their timeless appeal and limited availability keep them in high demand year after year.”
Whether holding vintage lore or commanding It bag appeal, a bag that retains its value is well worth the investment. According to experts at leading resale companies The Real Real, Fashionphile, and Vestiaire Collective, the below are the bags that retain the highest resale values now.
The Row Margaux
The Row’s Margaux bag is a signature style from the luxury brand that continues to command a top spot on the resale value list. The Olsen twins once explained to British Vogue, “The whole exercise was to see whether, if something was made beautifully, in great fabric, with good fit, it would sell without a logo or a name on it.” Of course, the experiment was a success, and the bag has been redesigned several times since its inception.
Bottega Veneta Adiamo Bag
While all Bottega Veneta intrecciato weave styles have seen increased demand, this particular style “sells on average for 90% of its retail price,” says McSweeney from The Real Real. According to stats at Vestiaire, the resale value of this bag is already double what it was in 2020.
Loewe Puzzle Tote
The Loewe Puzzle styles are without question rising in the ranks on secondhand lists, but according to McSweeney at The Real Real, this particular style, “typically sells for 90% of its retail price on average.” In other words, the Puzzle tote is the one to look for now.
Gucci Jackie 1961
Rising in value on secondhand retailers every year, this quintessential Gucci style will likely never lose its clout. It has all three pillars, as a marker in time with limited-edition creations and celebrity endorsements, and according to Chia at Vestiaire, it has risen between 20-50% in value each year since 2020. “Reintroduced by Alessandro Michele, we continue to see strong demand for both current and vintage versions, with average selling prices rising 24% to last year,” echoes McSweeney. Tedrick from Fashionphile adds, “With the revival of vintage trends, the Jackie bag has seen a resurgence. The timeless design and ties to Gucci’s heritage strengthen its position in the resale market.”
Balenciaga City
The Balenciaga City bags “have seen resurging demand,” says McSweeney of The Real Real. “They have driven average selling prices up by 41% since the beginning of the year.” Originally released in 2001, the bag is now a marker of the indie era that will undoubtedly come back into style again and again.
Toteme T Lock Bag
According to The Real Real, this newcomer to the world of high-value second hand bags sells for an average of 82% above suggested retail price. “It has become a sought-after new classic, selling at an average of 82% of its MSRP, with nearly all items selling on The RealReal within 30 days,” says McSweeney of The Real Real.
Chanel Classic Flap Bag
When it comes to Chanel bags, none are more classic than the Classic Flap Bag. Elizabeth Layne, Chief Marketing Officer at Rebag, notes that this bag “achieved an impressive 135% average value retention, making it one of the year’s top performers across all brands.” Tedrick from Fashionphile adds, “Chanel’s classic flap, particularly in caviar leather, continues to appreciate thanks to the brand’s consistent price increases, iconic design, and limited production, which ensure scarcity and long-term desirability.” Whether you buy yours secondhand or brand new, it’s sure to retain its value over the years.
Savette Hobo
Falling into the “covetable contemporary” category, Savette is an emerging brand that continues to rise in popularity in resale markets. The Hobo is its best-selling style, but on average, its selling prices are increasing by 25% year-over-year according to The Real Real.
Hermès Birkin 35
According to Rebag’s reporting, the Hermès Birkin Bag is ranked #1 in bags that retained value in 2024, with a 250% retention rate. Secondhand retailers agree that time and time again, the Hermès Birkin lands back on the list as a classic and never-fail secondhand or vintage purchase. “We’re experiencing a shift toward larger Birkin styles,” says McSweeney, “with average selling prices increasing by $900 since last year, and now selling for an average of 134% of its retail price.” Chia at Vestiaire endorses it too: “Depending on budget, an Hermès Birkin is always a good investment.” Tedrick from Fashionphile echoes, “Widely regarded as the gold standard in luxury bags, the Birkin’s value often increases due to its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and high demand, especially for limited-edition or rare color and material combinations.” When in doubt, and if it’s within reach, the Birkin will not let you down.
Fendi Baguette
Rebag experts note that the Fendi Baguette is ranked #1 when it comes to top-searched bags. And with good reason: What’s more iconic than Fendi’s signature Baguette? According to Elizabeth Layne, the chief marketing officer at Rebag, almost nothing. “The Fendi Baguette, originally introduced in 1997, is the second most valuable Fendi style of 2023, with a 113% average value retention,” she says. The bag has maintained its place on the sought-after vintage lovers’ list in 2024.
Christian Dior Lady Dior
“As one of Dior’s most iconic bags, the Lady Dior has seen growth in resale value, particularly for special editions or rare colors,” says Tedrick of Fashionphile. “Its historical significance and association with the late Princess Diana add to its appeal.” This bag’s sophisticated silhouette and subtle branding make it a perfect piece that can last decades in any wardrobe.
Celine Nimo
From the Triomphe collection, the Celine Nimo has proven to be the most popular in 2024. “It sells at 91% of its retail price on average,” says McSweeney of The Real Real. The super-sleek style has a timeless appeal that supports its case.
Louis Vuitton Bum
We knew the ’90s came back. We knew the Neverfull had its big moment. But have you checked in with Louis Vuitton’s fanny styles as of late? According to The Real Real, it now sells for up to 150% of its original retail price.
Chanel On The Pavement
Chanel’s On The Pavement bags—any iteration of the style—embody vintage. They mark a moment in time, hold cultural meaning, and have been toted on the arms of It girls such as Bella Hadid. “This style continues to grow in demand,” says McSweeney. “We see an average selling price increase of $750 each year.” The bag epitomizes what it takes to become a designer artifact that tops the charts in retaining a high resale value: limited-edition status, cultural nostalgia, and celebrity endorsements. It sets the bar high when it comes to rarified vintage, but it also makes a case for the specialness of buying secondhand pieces that represent a moment in time.
Louis Vuitton OnTheGo
This workday-to-weekend tote went from retaining 97% of its value in resale markets to retaining 106%, therefore increasing in value in secondhand markets. Following in the footsteps of its sister bag, the Neverfull, the OnTheGo proves there’s a place for the everyday tote in modern trends.
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