15 Best Designer Denim Bags
Sophie Diego
Table of Contents
Finding The Best Designer Denim Bags
Denim-mania took over the early 2000s. Iconic for the wrong reasons, we saw our favorite celebrities indulge in jean fashion.
It wasn’t just a matter of low-waisted pants. Instead, it was a red carpet onslaught of ‘jresses,’ ‘jorsets,’ ‘jlazers,’ and ‘jats’. Remember Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears in the 2001 American Music Awards? It was a fever dream combined with a car crash.
I think it’s fair to say that we evolved past denim mania, but I understand if there’s some leftover nostalgia for it. After all, Y2K fashion is coming back in full force.
With the slow resurgence of early 2000s trends, it’s only natural for one jean-fad to pass through the cracks—and that’s the iconic designer denim bag.
The 15 Best Designer Denim Bags
If you consider yourself a denim diehard, there’s a good chance that you’re looking to splurge on a designer model. We’re counting down 15 of the best luxury denim handbags that are poppin’ on the market, ranging from Dolce & Gabbana to Animas Iris.
#1: Dolce&Gabbana Devotion Denim Patch Shoulder Bag
Brand: Dolce&Gabbana
Check Availability on Nordstrom
Price: $7,745
- Dolce & Gabbana patchwork denim shoulder bag with leather trim.
- Sliding flat and chain shoulder strap; can be doubled.
- Flap top with snap closure.
- Crystal-embellished scared heart logo medallion.
- Interior, zip pocket and card slot.
- “Devotion” is made in Italy.
#2: Christian Louboutin Frangibus Small Miss Denim Sakura Tote Bag
Brand: Christian Louboutin
Check Availability on Bergdorf Goodman
Price: $5,450
- Christian Louboutin “Frangibus” calf leather and denim fabric tote bag with fringe trim
- Features embroidered typographic logo at front with sakura flowers
- Flat top handles with LoubintheSky logo studs
- Detachable, adjustable shoulder strap
- Open top with snap closure
- Interior, one slip pocket
- Signature red lining
- Metal feet protects bottom of bag
- Approx. 5.9″H x 15″W x 2.3″D
- Made in Italy
#3: Saint Laurent Medium Lou Quilted Denim Bag
Brand: Saint Laurent
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $2,650.00
Chevron stitching sets off the purple denim of a just-right bag that offers a surprising mix of unpretentious materials and signature detailing. A pull-through chain strap with a leather shoulder rest ensures everyday versatility.
- Magnetic-snap flap closure
- Pull-through shoulder strap
- Lined
- Recycled cotton
- Dry clean
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- This product meets Nordstrom Sustainably Sourced Materials criteria: contains at least 50% sustainably sourced materials
- Item #6893157
#4: Saint Laurent Solferino Denim & Suede Shoulder Bag
Brand: Saint Laurent
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $2,490.00
Done in washed denim and set off with cinnamon-hued suede and monogram hardware, this accordioned bag boasts the perfect size and attitude for everyday carry.
- Swivel-lock closure
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Interior wall pocket
- Textile with leather trim
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6156496
#5: Balenciaga Small Hourglass Denim Print Leather Top Handle Bag
Brand: Balenciaga
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $2,450.00
A trompe l’oeil print simulates the look of distressed denim on a calfskin-leather bag boasting the signature curvilinear silhouette of the Hourglass line. A removable strap offers hands-free styling for the piece, while gleaming logo hardware adds sophisticated polish.
- 8 3/4″W x 5 1/2″H x 4″D. (Interior capacity: small.)
- 4″ strap drop; adjusts up to 23″ crossbody strap drop.
- 1.95 lb.
- Magnetic-snap flap closure
- Top carry handle; removable, adjustable crossbody strap
- Exterior slip pocket
- Interior zip pocket
- Lambskin-leather lining
- Leather
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6916117
#6: Alexander McQueen The Short Story Denim & Leather Shoulder Bag
Brand: Alexander McQueen
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $1,890.00
Taking its inspiration from the sharing of narratives, a tradition of the McQueen house, this everyday denim-and-leather bag is a Story worth repeating.
Carry it using the detachable strap that adjusts for shoulder or crossbody wear or by placing your hand through the jewelry-inspired brass handles.
- Magnetic-snap tab closure
- Top carry handles; removable adjustable crossbody strap
- Exterior zip pocket with logo-tag zip pull
- Interior wall pocket; card slot
- Structured silhouette with flat base for stability
- Textile with leather trim
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6851474
#7: Bottega Veneta Beak Triangle Flap Denim Belt Bag
Brand: Bottega Veneta
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $1,890.00
A triangular flap recalls the ‘V’ in Veneta on this softly slouchy denim belt bag that can be carried crossbody, in hand, or around the waist.
- Magnetic flap with drawstring closure
- Top carry handle; removable, adjustable belt/crossbody strap with squeeze buckle
- Exterior two-way zip pocket
- Textile lining
- Textile
- Made in Italy
- Item #6230402
#8: Dolce&Gabbana Mini D&G Girls Denim Patchwork Shoulder Bag
Brand: Dolce&Gabbana
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $1,695.00
A baroque-inspired D&G logo gleams against the stonewashed denim patchwork of a compact bag handcrafted by skilled Italian artisans, so each one is unique.
- Magnetic-snap flap closure
- Removable chain-and-leather shoulder strap
- Interior card slot
- Leather lining
- Textile/leather
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6258425
#9: Alexander McQueen The Curve Small Denim & Leather Shoulder Bag
Brand: Alexander McQueen
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $1,490.00
Take along the essentials in this denim-covered bucket bag, wrapped and strapped in calfskin leather and inspired by the brand’s harness motif. The strap adjusts for shoulder or crossbody carry.
- Magnetic frame closure
- Adjustable crossbody strap
- Interior wall pocket
- Leather lining
- Textile/leather
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6851471
#10: Burberry Small Lola Denim Check Camera Bag
Brand: Burberry
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $1,290.00
Heritage check goes tonal in this denim bag polished with a monogram paying homage to founder Thomas Burberry.
- Top zip closure
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Lined
- Textile/leather
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6888828
#11: Christian Louboutin Loubishore Logo Denim Tote
Brand: Christian Louboutin
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $1,090.00
A logo-debossed plaque and red-accented leather shoulder straps bring signature detailing to this denim tote designed to accessorize breezy, warm-weather looks.
- Bridge-clip closure
- Shoulder straps
- Structured silhouette with flat base for stability
- Textile with leather trim
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6761864
#12: Stella McCartney Mini Eco Denim Crossbody Bag
Brand: Stella McCartney
Check Availability on SSENSE
Price: $1,050
- Stella McCartney crossbody bag in eco denim and faux leather
- Features logo print at front
- Detachable, adjustable logo web shoulder strap
- Open top with magnetic closure
- Interior, one slip pocket
- Approx. 9.1″H x 9.1″W x 3.2″D
- Made in Italy
#13: Coperni Swipe Denim Top Handle Bag
Brand: Coperni
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $640.00
This compact bag, featuring a geometric silhouette inspired by the minimalist ‘swipe’ icon that unlocks many smartphones, is made of light-washed denim.
- Two-way top-zip closure
- Top carry handle
- Cotton
- Made in Italy
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6887367
#14: Alexander McQueen The Short Story Denim Tote Bag
Brand: Alexander McQueen
Reeck Availability on SSENSE
Price: $1,890
- Alexander McQueen tote bag in denim and calf leather
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Metal top handles
- Magnetic closure
- Exterior front zip pocket with logo-tooled tag
- Approx. 8.5″H x 8.25″W x 5″D
- Made in Italy
#15: Anima Iris Mini Zaria Denim Look Leather Top Handle Bag
Brand: Anima Iris
Retailer: Nordstrom
Price: $520.00
A handbag designed for those who like to stand out: This structured boxy style from the Dakar-based brand is made from leather textured to look like denim.
- Magnetic-snap flap closure
- Top carry handle
- Protective metal feet
- Metallic leather lining
- Leather
- Made in Senegal
- Designer Handbags
- Item #6824155
Where to Buy Designer Denim Bags
Can’t get enough of the Y2K phase? Perhaps it’s time to cop yourself a designer bag to help you remember the good old times. We’ll highlight some recommendations for those interested.
- Nordstrom
- Neiman Marcus
- Moda Operandi
- Net-A-Porter
- FarFetch
- SSENSE
How to Choose the Best Designer Denim Bags
From the perspective of a handbag connoisseur, the best purses are made with high-quality leather, jacquard, and canvas. Denim isn’t considered a top-dog on the list, as it’s commonly associated with clothing rather than clutches.
But, with the onslaught of designer versions on the market, it’s definitely been given a glow-up as a handbag essential over the years. With hundreds of styles offered online, it begs the obvious question—how do you choose the best designer denim bag?
If you want to be a responsible shopper, we’ve developed a 5-point system to help you differentiate amateur from amazing.
Brand
Brand recognition isn’t enough to guarantee quality. Nowadays, some luxury labels fall short in terms of material use and construction. In order to differentiate the worst from the best, we suggest picking a company known for its denim handbags.
There’s a good chance that they have a loyal fan following. Plus, you can always search for reviews online to help round off your decision.
Style
I think it’s safe to say that Y2K is a passing fad. Jean bags, while popular in the early 2000s, have thankfully lost their connection with the trends of the time.
Today, most designers reinvent the outdated denim clutch into a stylish modern moment. With that in mind, it’s important to settle for a design that’ll last for years. This includes looking at its pattern, silhouette, and color.
Size
So, do you prefer the tiny Jacquemus clutch or the generous Louis Vuitton Neverfull tote? Size is a crucial point to consider when choosing a handbag.
If you find yourself carrying more than just a phone and a wallet, chances are that you’ll need a larger carry-on. Those who can live with just the necessities may require a smaller purse.
Versatility
No, we’re not referring to a transformable handbag. Instead, versatility applies to outfits as purses can only be worn with certain ensembles.
With that in mind, shoppers should consider the cut and color of their carry-on to prevent OOTD clashing. We highly recommend picking neutral hues and classic silhouettes over avant-garde design.
Price
According to our top 15 list, prices can range from $520 to $7,745. It’s definitely not a surprise—given that luxury goods are notorious for being expensive.
Before you settle on a design, you should always assess your personal budget. How much can you afford to spend on an haute couture bag?
How to Style Designer Denim Bags
Denim on denim is a controversial look. You need a certain level of confidence and styling know-how in order to pull it off. Instead of using 2000s Justin Timberlake and Britney as your fashion icons, we recommend opting for a Janis Joplin-inspired ensemble.
Composed of a long-sleeve top, bell-bottoms, and a light wash neckerchief, this retro-themed OOTD strikes the perfect balance between modern-day style and 1970s grunge. Don’t forget to top the look off with a pair of flats and a ‘jag.’
Blues and creams blend together into an effervescent dream. It’s a refreshing alternative if you’re tired of dark shades. Plus, it emanates a friendly vibe compared to intimidating black.
Case in point, this adorable outfit makes use of the iconic Chanel denim bag by pairing it with jeans, a billowing white top, and an oversized cable-knit.
Finished off with blue stilettos, it’s a charming look perfect for afternoon brunches and museum dates. We recommend topping the OOTD with gold-toned jewelry for a bit of sparkle.
You can never go wrong with a classic pair of jeans and a white racer-back top. Simple, chic, and practical for everyday use, this OOTD is considered the perfect base for trendsetters.
You’re welcome to deck out the outfit with jewelry or an extravagant coat, but we believe this ensemble speaks for itself. The denim handbag helps in adding a quirky touch to the entire look.
Complete with dad-type runners, it’s an ‘off-hours’ celebrity outfit for those who love to be the center of attention.
FAQs
What is the most luxurious designer denim bag?
It goes without saying that the Dolce & Gabbana Devotion Denim Patch Shoulder Bag is the most luxurious purse in our top 15 list. Exquisite in shape and intricate in pattern, this carry-on brings the glory of the early 2000s to modern-day fashion.
It’s built with a patchwork design, a leather trim, and a crystal-embellished heart logo for a touch of bling. What’s not to love?
The Dolce & Gabbana Devotion Denim Patch Shoulder Bag retails for a whopping $7,745. If you’re a fan of the Y2k phase, this is definitely the purse to opt for. We recommend styling this carry-on with well-tailored jeans and a fashionable white button-up.
Are designer denim bags in style?
If designer denim bags weren’t in style, we wouldn’t be here writing this article. As we mentioned before, Y2K seems to be a passing trend, but that’s not to discourage anyone who loves early 2000s fashion.
If anything, we believe that the resurgence of denim bags is due to this generation’s fascination for the early MTV scene. It’s a reminder of the good times, and what better way to signify your childhood than fashion?
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