As the autumn/winter season fast approaches, so does the prospect of refreshing your wardrobe, and I can’t think of an easier way to do it than with the very best designer handbags labels have to offer.

Don’t be fooled by my mention of the new season though. If you play your cards right, your arm candy will transcend trends so that you’ll find yourself reaching for it for years to come. In this way, it’s the best sartorial investment you can make.

Quite literally in some cases, since certain labels like Dior and Chanel translate into a better financial investment than gold. It is a big purchase yes, but one you won’t regret.

With this in mind, you’ll never go wrong with a classic oversized tote – Loewe and Khaite have some great styles for AW21 – or a crossbody bag: it’s no surprise that Gucci’s GG Marmont, Bottega Venetta’s Cassette and Saint Laurent’s Loulou styles get restocked year after year to keep up with demand.

That said, if you want to have a little bit of fun, designers have gone all out with their autumn trends ticking handbags.

The best arm candy for AW21 ranges from revamped everyday bags (90s-inspired shoulder bags are everywhere right now, from Givenchy to Fendi and Chloé) to the coolest bucket and clutch bags re-imagined in tactile fabrics and finishings such as raffia and chains and fun shades of neon and primary colours (I’m thinking of BOYY’s canvas bags, Prada’s hot pink macramé tote and basically everything at Bottega).

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to the latest designer wares, worry not. There are so many cool contemporary brands offering handbags for around £300. I’m personally a big fan of Manu Atelier, By Far and Elleme for everyday classics and fun going-out bags.

Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best designer handbags.

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