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15 Best Designer Denim Bags

Sophie Diego

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

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#2: Christian Louboutin Frangibus Small Miss Denim Sakura Tote Bag

Brand: Christian Louboutin

Check Availability on Bergdorf Goodman

Price: $5,450

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#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.

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#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.

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#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.

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#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.

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#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.

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#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.

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#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.

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#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.

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#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.

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#12: Stella McCartney Mini Eco Denim Crossbody Bag

Brand: Stella McCartney

Check Availability on SSENSE

Price: $1,050

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#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.

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#14: Alexander McQueen The Short Story Denim Tote Bag

Brand: Alexander McQueen

Reeck Availability on SSENSE

Price: $1,890

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#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.

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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. 

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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