If you’re a bag fanatic, there’s probably a designer purse that you covet. It might be a vintage Hermès Birkin from the ’90s or a new addition to your wardrobe from a label with a legacy as deep as Louis Vuitton. In fact, the brand’s most iconic designs have secured their place in closets of fashion icons including Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Rihanna. It’s also worth noting that the best luxury purse brands often retain their value over time, making them an investment in both style and functionality.
But what makes a bag worthy of an iconic status? The answer reflects the broader fashion world where bags aren’t just about utility, but also serve as a vehicle for self-expression. In the case of Louis Vuitton, the French luxury house recently partnered with artist Yayoi Kusama to create one of the quirkiest purses on the market. The limited edition ‘Gadino’, complete with Kusama’s signature polka dots and a rounded pumpkin shape, was arguably the most expensive handbag released in recent years.
What’s the Difference Between a Purse and a Wallet?
Unlike purses, which are designed to be held in the hand and have a small capacity, wallets can be carried in a bag or slipped into the pocket of your favorite jeans. They typically have multiple compartments, pockets and sections to accommodate everything from cash to credit cards and IDs.
Despite this distinction, many people use the terms “purse” and “handbag” interchangeably. It’s perhaps due to the fact that both accessories are versatile, stylish and serve a purpose, and that they can be easily paired with different outfits and occasions.
Hobo Bags for Women Soft Vegan Leather Shoulder Handbag Slouchy Tote Purses
$28.90 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Afroyla African Women's Circle Crossbody Bag, Premium Vegan Leather, Adjustable Strap, Zipper Closure
$61.95 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
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$6.29 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Lapensa Cute Small Wallet for Women,Colour-blocked Slim Wallet RFID Blocking Bifold Zipper Pocket Credit Card Holder with ID Window (Pink)
$5.69 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
KKXIU Shoulder Bag for Women Cute Hobo Purses and Handbags Retro Clutch Underarm Purse
$24.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
BAGSMART Tote Bag for Women, Teacher Tote with Insulated Compartment, Large Puffer Work Tote Handbags for Work
$24.49 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Jogjam Black Cat Floral Rfid Women Wallet, Small Slim Thin Credit Card Wallet, PU Leather Bifold Cash Zipper Coin Pocket ID Window for Female Ladies Teen Girls Girly
$14.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Auto Amazon Links: No products found. http_request_failed: A valid URL was not provided. URL: https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?SearchIndex=All&multipageStart=0&multipageCount=20&Operation=GetResults&Keywords=Purses+%26+Handbags|What+Makes+an+Iconic+Purse%3F&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_542cbd1b0893b3c5cda0b69134297548