Founded in Paris in 1837 by harness-maker Thierry Hermès, Hermès developed from a specialist equestrian workshop into one of the world’s most celebrated luxury houses, while retaining a strong emphasis on leather craftsmanship. Its Kelly bag originated as a women’s bag with straps created by Robert Dumas in the 1930s and later became closely associated with Grace Kelly.
The Birkin followed in 1984 after a chance meeting between Jane Birkin and Hermès executive Jean-Louis Dumas inspired a spacious, practical design. Today, both bags are internationally recognised for their distinctive silhouettes, skilled construction and limited availability.
Their heritage, rarity and wide variety of sizes, leathers, colours and special editions continue to attract strong interest from collectors, with particularly scarce or well-preserved examples often commanding substantial prices on the secondary market.
Founded by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in Paris in 1910, Chanel began as a millinery boutique before developing into one of the world’s most influential fashion houses.
In February 1955, Gabrielle Chanel introduced the 2.55 handbag—named after its month and year of creation—combining quilted construction, a flat-link chain strap and the distinctive Mademoiselle turn-lock in a practical shoulder bag that allowed the wearer’s hands to remain free.
The design later inspired the Classic Flap, developed during Karl Lagerfeld’s tenure and distinguished by its leather-interwoven chain and interlocking double-C clasp. Both styles remain among Chanel’s most recognisable and desirable handbags, valued by collectors for their enduring silhouettes, craftsmanship, heritage and wide range of sizes, leathers, colours and limited editions.
Louis Vuitton handbags are synonymous with Luxury, craftsmanship and timeless design. Founded in Paris in 1854, Louis Vuitton has evolved from a renowned trunk maker into one of the world’s most prestigious luxury houses.
The Maison is renowned for its iconic collections, including the Speedy, Capucines and City Steamer. Rare and high crafted pieces, particularly those produced in exotic skins or as limited editions, can command exceptional values with models such as the Crocodile City Steamer, Crocodile Capucines and Coquille d’Oeuf Minaudiere among the most valuable.
Founded in Florence in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, the house of Gucci began as a small luggage and leather goods store, inspired by Guccio’s experience working at the Savoy Hotel in London and his exposure to the refined luggage and travel accessories of its wealthy clientele.
It is now one of the world’s most recognisable luxury brands, celebrated for its distinctive Italian craftsmanship and timeless designs. Gucci’s handbags are sought after by collectors, with iconic styles such as the Jackie, Bamboo and Dionysus, alongside rare and limited-edition pieces. Some of the most valuable include the Gucci Diamond Stirrup created with precious stones, and exceptional exotic-skin versions of the Gucci Dionysus and Jackie.
Founded in Paris in 1946 by Christian Dior, the house of Dior quickly transformed the fashion world with its first collection in 1947. They soon became synonymous with French haute couture, elegance and exceptional craftsmanship.
Dior handbags reflect their heritage, with iconic designs including the Lady Dior, Saddle and Dior Book Tote, many of which have become highly collectable.
