My Friend Wants to Invest In a Timeless Yet Affordable Designer Bag This Year—8 Chic Styles I Sent Her

Want to know one of the most common questions I get asked as a fashion editor? It's usually along the lines of: "Where do I find a great handbag that doesn't cost thousands of pounds?", you know, the kind of bag that feels luxurious and makes any outfit look premium but doesn't come with a four-figure price tag. And while I will always sing the high street's praises when it comes to bags, now more than ever before, there's some mid-price luxury brands that just nail it every time. One of my favourites being, A.P.C.

Founded in 1987, the French fashion label has gained a loyal following from those who are looking for timeless, fuss-free pieces that are made to last in your wardrobe way beyond the season, or even year, they're created in. The building blocks to any minimalist's dream capsule wardrobe, if you will. And while I'll always be taken by the brand's tailored trousers, trench coats and shirting that I would happily add to my everyday uniform, it's the handbags that always gain my attention more than anything.

While high end handbags may require a bank loan, the styles from A.P.C possess the same high quality, while sitting at a more affordable price point—styles go upwards from £370. And as a Parisian label, of course they all come with the understated luxury look we all know and love.

If you’re looking for a timeless handbag to invest in and love forever, one that transcends trends, there’s really nowhere better to find it than A.P.C. And while The Demi-Lune or Grace crossbody bags are probably the most recognisable, but new styles such as the Vera (as seen on Blanca, above) have become one of the most popular over the past few months. Along with Niege (as seen on Michelle, below) that's the new slouchy carry-everything style you've most likely already spotted on Instagram.

Whichever A.P.C. handbag you land on for your wardrobe, you can be safe in the knowledge it’s going to look chic forever. These are the 8 A.P.C. bags fashion insiders will all be wearing for 2025, and way beyond.

SHOP THE BEST A.P.C. BAGS, ACCORDING TO A FASHION EDITOR:

1. Vera

The kind of style that'll instantly become your new fit-everything bag—it'll work seamlessly into your everyday wardrobe, going with every outfit you wear. No wonder so many fashion editors and influencers have been spotted wearing this soft, slouchy style on repeat since it launched at the end of 2024.

Shop the Vera:

2. Neige

If you're a big bag fan, Neige is for you. The buttery soft leather slouchy grab bag is one you'll rely on for everything from running errands to brunch meetings (yes, it can fit a laptop in.. In a select four colours, no matter which one you choose, this 90s-inspired style will be chic. Launching in 2024, expect new colourways for spring 2025.

Shop the Neige:

3. The Demi-Lune

The half moon Demi-Lune bag is now one of A.P.C.'s most iconic styles. Available in classic or mini sizes, the crossbody shape can also be found in the form of wallets, coin purses and cardholders—in a whole host of shades. And there's also a shoulder bag version (keep going to shop it).

Shop the Demi-Lune:

4. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag

Tapping into the skinny shoulder bag trend, the Demi-Lune Shoulder bag is set to be a new favourite style for 2025. In five fun colours—cherry, clay green, nut brown, sahara and timeless black—there's one to suit all wardrobes. And the strap is adjustable to you can also wear it as a crossbody.

Shop the Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag:

5. Grace

Grace is one of those bags you'll love forever and ever. The box shape has been reimagined over the year, now also in shoulder, baguette and clutch styles and the OG comes in three sizes—regular, small and mini. With everything from classic colours or fun shades to suede or quilted textures to choose from, it might take you a while to find 'the one' when they're all so good.

Shop the Grace:

6. Virginie Flap Bag

Inspired by the original Virginie bucket-style bag, the Virginie Flap Bag is the smaller, sleek style that's just the right size to fit in all the essentials. The smooth leather with minimalist branding is quite luxury at its finest.

Shop the Virginie Flap Bag:

7. Ana

Made from a recycled leather-like material, this structured bucket bag is one you'll wear on heavy rotation. The ideal daytime mid-size style, the little tie-up detailing is the kind of finishing touch we would expect from A.P.C.

Shop the Ana:

8. Ninon

Squishy bags are key this year, so the Ninon is ticking off a mini trend while still staying timeless. In regular or mini, you can wear it as a crossbody or shoulder bag or even scrunch it up and style as an oversized clutch.

Shop the Ninon: