For most, a first foray into the luxury landscape begins with a handbag.
Simply put, accessories—namely purses, sunglasses and bags—prove the most accessible point for many style savants to dip their toes into the world of designer buys.
Serving one of the longest sartorial lifespans in our wardrobes, a handbag will typically get more wear and stand the test of time (and trends) more so than a dress or jeans.
Just look to fashion’s flip from banishing the skinny jeans to brands like Celine and Diesel resurrecting the style the very next year on their runways, and you’ll know what we mean.
So, when we say handbags are one of the most worthy investments you can make, sartorially speaking, we mean it.
Even still, the price tag attached to a luxury bag isn’t to be downplayed. In fact, recent price hikes across the luxury board have seen many coveted accessories slip from out of budgets and out of reach.
In 2021 alone, Chanel increased the price of its Medium Flap Bag not once, not twice, but three times, to increase its RRP by a stifling $2,000 by the end of the year.
As a result, some designer devotees turned their attention instead to wallets. A recent TikTok trend saw some savvy shoppers opt for a large wallet (big enough to house your card holder and phone) before attaching their own look-alike chain, effectively turning the accessory into a mini bag.
Most of the major luxury houses offer larger purses and chain wallets that can double as mini handbags and the perfect evening accessory, making it the perfect option for to bring a designer item into your wardrobe for less.
Scroll on for our picks of the best designer chain wallets to buy this season.
The Best Designer Wallet On Chain
Cassandre Envelope Chain Wallet, $1,920 at Net-A-Porter
In a sleek all black finish from the textured leather with luxe matelassé finish to the iconic logo and chain this wallet is the perfect size to carry everything you need.
Prada Mini Triangle Crossbody, $2,850 at Farfetch
Prada’s mini pouches pack a sizeable style punch. The double zip triangle pouch can be split into two individual purses (meaning twice as many styling possibilities) and can be layered with larger bag styles as you grow your collection.
Lady Dior Top Handle Clutch, $4,200 at DIOR
As elegant as it is functional, this mini bag can be worn with the chain or carried by top handle and comes with compartments and card slots–an organisational essential when space is limited. For us, however, it’s the tiny details like the D.I.O.R charm closure and pearl adorned chain that make this piece so special.
Gucci Diana Mini Bag With Bamboo, $1,770 at GUCCI
Finding the Princess’ namesake bag a little out of reach? This mini bag pays homage with all the classic touches, namely the bamboo clasp inspired by the handles of the original and antique gold hardware.
Baguette Continental Wallet With Chain, $1,700 at FENDI
Fendi’s baguette has proved a timeless silhouette for the luxury brand, making this petite reincarnation the next best thing. With its embossed nappa leather and gold hardware, this wallet will undoubtedly be just as stylishly enduring.
