8 Best Vintage Handbags to Buy

Vintage handbags have a way of standing out in a crowd. Many vintage styles, often 20 to 30 years old or more, offer a level of craftsmanship and character that’s harder to find in today’s fast-fashion world. From sturdy materials to thoughtful details, these vintage designer bags were made to last, and it shows. 

This guide covers seven iconic vintage handbag styles, from luxury European designers like Chanel and Hermès to accessible American brands like Coach. You'll learn what makes each style unique, what to inspect before purchasing, and where you can find these purses secondhand.

1. Chanel Classic Flap

The Chanel Classic Flap consistently tops lists of iconic vintage bags. It's one of those designs that never seems to lose its appeal. Debuting as the 2.55 in 1955, this vintage Chanel bag is known for its signature diamond quilting and the recognizable interlocking CC turn-lock closure.

Vintage Chanel versions from the 1980s and 1990s are especially popular, thanks to their gold-plated hardware and rich leather finishes. The interwoven leather-and-chain strap allows for comfortable shoulder or crossbody wear, making it a piece that feels just as wearable today as it did decades ago. It’s a great example of how a well-designed bag can feel both special and practical.

2. Louis Vuitton Speedy

The Louis Vuitton Speedy has long been loved for its practical appeal. With its rounded shape and secure top-zip closure, it’s a great example of how thoughtful design can retain both function and charm decades later.

The brand’s coated canvas is also known for its durability, and vintage Louis Vuitton Speedy bags often show a beautiful patina on the vachetta leather handles and trim over time.

Available in several sizes, there’s an LV Speedy for nearly every lifestyle. Many people appreciate how vintage versions tell a story through gentle wear while still holding up remarkably well.

3. Hermès Kelly

Few bags carry the prestige of the Hermès Kelly. This structured, trapezoidal design with a single top handle creates an elegant aesthetic that has captivated fashion lovers since Grace Kelly made it famous in the 1950s.

Each Kelly requires extensive hand-stitching by a single artisan. Vintage versions come in various leathers—like Box calf, Togo, and Epsom—that age differently over time. Like the Birkin, this style represents the pinnacle of handbag craftsmanship for collectors.

4. Gucci Jackie (and Bamboo Styles)

The Gucci Jackie offers a softer, more relaxed alternative to structured bags. This hobo-style bag features a crescent silhouette, distinctive piston closure, and soft leather construction that adapts to its contents. Collectors also prize Gucci's bamboo-handled bags from the 1940s.

Named after Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who frequently carried it, the bag is enduringly versatile. It works equally well for casual outings and evening occasions, keeping it relevant across decades.

5. Coach Legacy Leather Bags

Not every collection needs to start with European luxury. Coach built its reputation on well-made American leather bags designed for use, not just for admiration. Vintage Coach styles from the 1970s through the 1990s feature thick leather, solid brass hardware, and clean silhouettes that age beautifully.

Vintage pieces from the 1970s through the 1990s feature thick, burnished leather, solid brass hardware, and classic silhouettes like the Duffle Sac and Court Bag. These bags are often a smart choice for those just starting out, offering quality and durability without feeling precious. They’re a reminder that craftsmanship and affordability can coexist, which is why Coach is one of the best brands to look for at thrift stores.

6. Prada Nylon Shoulder Bag

Prada introduced the nylon shoulder bag, bringing a minimalist, practical aesthetic to luxury handbags. This design features signature tessuto nylon and the triangular logo plaque that defined 1980s understated elegance.

Gaining a cult following in the late 1990s, its lightweight design contrasts with ornate vintage pieces. The recent Y2K resurgence has renewed interest, making them sought after by collectors who appreciate the era's aesthetic.

7. Dior Saddle

Few bags capture a specific fashion moment quite like the Dior Saddle. Originally designed under John Galliano in the early 2000s, the saddle-shaped silhouette broke from tradition with its bold, asymmetrical curve.

The Dior Saddle became a cultural favorite thanks to its creative shape and confident attitude. Today, vintage versions feel both nostalgic and fresh, offering a playful interpretation of luxury that continues to echo in modern collections. For many, it represents fashion’s more expressive side, where personality leads the design.

8. Fendi Baguette

The Fendi Baguette, often called the baguette bag, is compact, expressive, and instantly recognizable. First released in 1997, it was designed to tuck neatly under the arm, much like a French loaf. Featuring the recognizable FF logo clasp, Fendi released this style in materials ranging from sequins to exotic leathers.

The design gained cult status through "Sex and the City," and remains a favourite among collectors today. Vintage Fendi pieces from this era showcase experimental materials, bold colors, and creative patterns. Each baguette feels like a snapshot of a moment in fashion history.

Start Your Vintage Handbag Collection

Vintage handbags offer timeless design, superior materials, and unique charm. Whether drawn to the elegance of a Kelly, the practicality of a Speedy, or the quality of vintage Coach, there's a style for every budget.

Browse secondhand purses on ShopGoodwill.com to discover your next treasure. Every purchase from our online thrift store supports Goodwill's job training mission, making a positive impact in communities. New inventory appears daily, and auction-style pricing offers you incredible deals. The treasure-hunt aspect rewards patience, as the perfect item might appear at the least expected moment.