Luxury Handbags Named After Famous Women – Celebrity Icons

August 28, 2025

Bags express more than mere accessories — they are timeless emblems of authority, distinction, and individuality. The language of fashion can often be one of telling a story through a bag, and sometimes that bag’s story is inspired by the extraordinary lives of famous women who have gone on to redefine style and elegance through the generations. From Hollywood starlets to British royalty and from contemporary supermodels to power icons, some of the most highly sought-after luxury handbags have been named after some remarkable women in history.

They sell far and above the missed meaning due to mere design; they retell contemporary fashion history, yet crystallizing the persona, charisma, and cultural clout of the women who served as their muses. When one grabs an Hermès Birkin, Lady Dior, or Gucci Jackie handbag, one is not just paying for a luxury commodity; they are paying to be associated with the glamour that comes with some prestige and history in world fashion.

This blog takes you through 15 famous bags bearing names borrowed from famous persons and references to their history. From the noble grace of Princess Diana to the easy, relaxed confidence of Jackie Kennedy, these bags stand for a somewhat ambiguous stylistic blend of self-expression and time-tested art. Whether you are a collector, a fashionista, or just plain old admirer of the icons which are the inspiration for the creations, this guide is your ultimate source of inspiration for handbags that have influenced luxury fashion permanently.

1. Hermès Birkin Bag – Jane Birkin

The Hermès Birkin is the king when it comes to luxury handbags. Taking its name from the name of British-French actress and singer, Jane Birkin, her story began on a plane in 1984, when she encountered the CEO Hermès on a flight. She was complaining that there were no chic bags that were practical enough, not knowing she was inspiring what would end up being every bag lover’s dream.

Given its enormous size, timeless craftsmanship, and elite exclusivity, the Birkin bag was an instant classic. It went off as a worldwide symbol of sheer wealth and status; auctions starting at $12,000 breaking through to the half-million gross mark.

Fascinating detail: The Birkins are so special that oftentimes there is a multiple-year wait list, making it something that both brands and collectors are craving for.

2. Hermès Kelly Bag – Grace Kelly

Another classic piece birthed by Hermès, the Kelly bag, was named after Princess Grace of Monaco. The Kelly bag? Yeah, that one. Hermès dropped it back in the ’30s under the name “Sac à dépêches.” Nobody really cared much outside of France until Grace Kelly, actual royalty and all-around icon, used it as a makeshift baby bump shield in ’56 to dodge the paparazzi. Hermès was so impressed, they put her name on it, and boom— Kelly was officially legendary. These days, it’s still the holy grail for bag collectors. Structured, fancy leather, flawless stitching— honestly, it’s the kind of bag you’d probably call highly collectible. 

So, why’s everyone obsessed? Kelly just oozes this “keep it classy” vibe. It’s all about quiet luxury, not screaming for attention. Like, if bags had personalities, this one would definitely sip champagne.

3. Lady Dior Bag – Princess Diana

When it comes to luxury handbags named after famous women, the Lady Dior has an unique position within the luxury handbag scene. It was gifted to Princess Diana by France’s First Lady, Bernadette Chirac, in 1995 and became one of Diana’s favorite bags. Diana was frequently photographed with the bag and Dior ended up naming the bag after her.

With the signature cannage quilting and charm letters, the Lady Dior embodies grace and femininity. The bag continues to be one of Dior’s most iconic bags and comes in the most variations, months after months, and year after year, and for centuries.

Style Tip: The mini Lady Dior with traditional monochromatic ensembles is the perfect way to achieve Diana’s effortless elegance.

4. Gucci Jackie Bag – Jackie Kennedy

One of the most iconic luxury handbags of all time, the Gucci Jackie is named after the quintessential style icon, Jackie Kennedy Onassis; it was the 1970s and she was constantly carrying the bag in its original hobo style for all her millions of paparazzi photos creating instant icon status for the handbag. Gucci later relaunched the Jackie in updated versions keeping the unique piston-lock closure while redesigning the bag for new generations. Today, celebrities are still enjoying the Jackie Kennedy or Jackie bag including the likes of Harry Styles and Rihanna, displaying how timeless this bag is that it carries its classic style for generations.

Pro Tip: Wearing the Gucci Jackie with a tailored blazer and oversized sunglasses will take your style to the next level recreating Jackie O’s style.

5. Salvatore Ferragamo Sofia Bag – Sofia Loren

The brand is named after beloved Italian legend Sofia Loren, Salvatore Ferragamo’s classic bag with contemporary touches. The structured shape of the bag, signature Gancini clasp, and master artisanry give the bag a sense of Ferragamo’s high-end heritage. Sofia Loren was a longtime muse of Ferragamo and having a bag named after her recognized her stature and influence on the fashion universe. And if you like a straightforward yet high-end daily handbag, the Sofia is the perfect option.

6. Chloé Drew Bag – Drew Barrymore

The Chloé Drew is perhaps the brand’s most classic piece, inspired by the carefree and ridiculously stylish Drew Barrymore. With its saddle-shaped pocket, gold hardware, and crossbody-wearability, it was an instant hit with starlets and style bloggers everywhere.

The Drew came out in 2014 and was the immediate classic of modern luxury enthusiasts, but remains to enchant minimalists and sophisticated playfulness fans.

7. Givenchy Antigona Bag – Antigone of Greek Mythology (Inspired by Modern Icons)

While not specifically named after a living celebrity, the Givenchy Antigona does take its name from Antigone, who is known as a powerful and beautiful woman from Greek lore (Thea) but the bag’s mainstream success is attributed to many popular women, like the likes of Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, helped make this modern classic an absolute “street style staple”.

Given its structure and clean lines, the Givenchy Antigona can be noted as one of the brands best-selling luxury handbags, making it a favorite of “power dresses” or stars of fashion everywhere.

8. Mulberry Alexa Bag – Alexa Chung

Switching gears: the Mulberry Alexa. Mulberry went all-in on British cool and named this one after Alexa Chung, queen of effortless style. Came out in 2010, and it’s basically the fashion version of having your cake and eating it too— kind of slouchy, kind of polished, works with jeans or a power suit. No wonder millennials lost their minds over it. Influencers and celebs were basically glued to it for years. Mulberry even brought it back for an encore because, apparently, nobody was ready to move on. Alexa (the person, not the Amazon robot) still has that kind of pull.

9. Fendi Baguette Bag – Sarah Jessica Parker (Carrie Bradshaw)

And then, the Fendi Baguette. Sure, it wasn’t technically named after anyone, but let’s be real, Sex and the City made it a star. Carrie Bradshaw (aka Sarah Jessica Parker) grabbed hers and declared, “It’s not a bag, it’s a Baguette!”— which is probably the most extra thing anyone’s ever said about a purse, but hey, it worked. From that moment on, the Baguette wasn’t just a bag. It was pop culture. You couldn’t swing a tiny shoulder strap in Manhattan without hitting one. Icon status: unlocked.

The petite and elegant shape was a defining fashion statement of the Y2K generation, and remains one of Fendi’s most iconic handbags today. In fact, celebrities and luxury aficionados still adore the possibility of what a Baguette suggests and the classic luxury collectible that it has become.

10. Prada Galleria Bag – Inspired by Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Although not an officially named homage to a famous woman; the Prada Galleria has a similar relationship. Let’s be real— the Prada Galleria is basically the epitome of classic handbags. You’ve seen it hanging off the arms of Gigi Hadid, Miranda Kerr, and even Taylor Swift, all strutting around with it. Paparazzi shots? Street style? That bag’s everywhere.

So, Prada dropped the Galleria as this super structured tote back in 2007, and honestly, it’s kind of the poster child for “less is more” vibes. It just screams quiet luxury, but in that cool, Italian way— like it’s not even trying, but it’s still winning. It’s just as at home in a boardroom as it is at brunch, and it’ll fit your laptop, a spare pair of flats.

11. Saint Laurent Kate Bag – Kate Moss

There isn’t much to be said about the Saint Laurent Kate bag – it is in fact named after the ever glamorous supermodel Kate Moss, whose impact on fashion in the 90’s and 2000’s remains unrivaled to this very day. With its envelope silhouette, plush leather, and YSL tassel, this bag determines style and Parisian glamour.

A hit with celebrities and fashion editors alike and a must-have investment piece for anyone who loves chic minimalism with eye-catching branding.

12. Ralph Lauren Ricky Bag – Ricky Lauren

Now, the Ricky bag— that’s Ralph Lauren’s love letter to his wife. He basically designed this whole bag as a tribute to her, and you can tell it’s got that “I’m classic, but I’m not boring” energy. The leather is chef’s kiss, the shape is all structure and poise, and it delivers those old-school American luxury vibes without feeling try-hard. It’s the kind of bag you could see in a vintage Cadillac or on the arm of someone who’s about to take over the world— or at least the front row of a fashion show.

Inside the private secondary market, the Ricky bag is a bag that wealthy collectors and A-list celebrities have in their closet – because it works for daytime looks and sleek evening styles.

13. Valentino Garavani Rockstud Spike – Inspired by Lady Gaga

Valentino’s Rockstud Spike bag became a sought-after bag after Lady Gaga carried it several times during public appearances. It was not officially named after Lady Gaga but it still became a global fashion hit due to her wearing it.

With an edgy design and signature studded details for Valentino, the Rockstud style became synonymous with bravado, glamour and also a sense of fearless individuality – characteristics that Lady Gaga embodies.

14. Celine Luggage Tote – Popularized by Famous Women

After several instances of seeing it worn by famous women including Kylie Jenner, Reese Witherspoon, and Naomi Watts, it became a social media sensation for its pull for the users, featuring interesting winged shape and its more minimal branding. Designed by Phoebe Philo in 2010, this bag attracted handbag lovers globally around the world.

Even though it has a more modern design, the luggage tote is still one of the handbags that Celine is most famous for.

15. Dior Bobby Bag – Christian Dior’s Muse

Named after Christian Dior’s dog Bobby, this bag gained immense popularity when the likes of Jennifer Lawrence, Jisoo, and Rihanna carried it. The Bobby bag is vintage-inspired with a modern essence which makes it one of the most chic, modern bag silhouettes Dior has created.  It’s not a surprise that the Bobby bag’s shape, gold hardware, and strap adjustment capability has made it popular to those who love understated luxury.  

How to Spot a Fake Luxury Handbag

There are fake luxury bags now that are more convincing than ever so it’s important to know how to know if you are buying an authentic bag:

• Stitching Quality → Luxury brands use perfect stitching that are even, with not loose threads.
• Logo & Engraving → Fake bags often have incorrect font, or spacing errors.
• Hardware → Real bags will use metals that are high in quality and weight; not plastic-coated hardware.
• Serial Numbers & Date Codes → Some brands like Hermès, Dior, and Gucci have their own authenticity codes/uniqueness.
• Ask for the Original Packaging & Certificates → Always ask for dust bags, receipts, and certificates of authenticity.

Pro tip: Always have the bag authenticated when you have doubt, use certification services like Entrupy or AuthenticateFirst.

Care Tips for Luxury Handbags

Owning an iconic handbag is one step, but making sure you keep it looking beautiful and retain its worth is the other.

a) Proper Storage

• When storing your handbag, always make sure to use a dust bag and to store it somewhere cool and dry.
• To help maintain its shape, use a bag shaper or bubble wrap.
• Avoid storing multiple bags on top, as this may distort the shape.

b) Regular Cleaning

• After every use, use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe the bag down.
• If you have leather bags, you will want to use a luxury leather conditioner about every few months.

c) Avoid Overstuffing

• Overstuffing your handbags will warp the shape and damage the delicateness of the stitching that makes it so beautiful.

d) Protect from Moisture & Sunlight

• Avoid exposing your bags to moisture and sunlight, which can lead to discolouration and mold.

e) Professional Maintenance

• Bring your handbag to brand authorized service centres for deep cleanings and restorations every 12-18 months.

Why Investing in These Handbags Makes Sense

Unlike (almost) any other fashion piece, luxury handbags – especially, iconic designs named after famous women – hold their value and even increase over time.

• Limited availability and heritage craftsmanship makes them collectible assets.
• Bags like the Hermès Birkin and Kelly have outperformed gold in resale value appreciation in the last decade.
• For fashion lovers, these handbags are not just accessories – they are a part of a legacy, a part of you.

Iconic Luxury Handbags Price Ranges

When it comes to luxury handbags that are named after notable women, the price point can significantly vary based on brand, material, rarity, and exclusiveness. Some of these designs have become true luxury status pieces and a few are really worth as much as a luxury car or small apartment.

So starting off with the Hermès Birkin inspired by Jane Birkin – this creation is one of the most expensive handbags in the world. These bags typically start at about $12,000 (₹10,00,000) for basic leather versions, but the rare editions made of exotic skin and precious metals can easily exceed $500,000 (₹4 crore) – a true collector’s item.

The same goes for the Hermès Kelly named after Grace Kelly. The Kelly costs about $9,000 (₹7,50,000) to start and special editions can be up to $300,000 (₹2.5 crore) or more based on size, color and material.

If you want elegance at lower price points you may want to consider the Lady Dior named after Princess Diana. Designer handbags: the ultimate status symbol, or just really expensive arm candy? Either way, if you’re looking for that Lady Dior, brace yourself— it’ll cost you the price of a small car. We’re talking $5,000 (₹4,15,000), and the limited edition ones you can get for an extra $10k (₹8,30,000). Now, the Gucci Jackie— it’s got that old-school Jackie Kennedy glam. Starts at $3,000 (₹2,50,000), but blink and you’re at $6,000 (₹5,00,000) for the top-tier stuff.

The Mulberry Alexa, though? Honestly, it’s the “bargain” of the bunch. For $1,500 (₹1,25,000), you can get a classic handbag at an affordable price until you spot the $2,500 (₹2,10,000) version and get tempted. Craving a little rockstar edge? The Saint Laurent Kate is all Kate Moss swagger, $2,500 (₹2,10,000) to start, but it’ll happily climb up to $4,000 (₹3,30,000) if you want the shiny stuff. 

The Chloé Drew— named for Drew Barrymore, because why not— channels that playful Parisian vibe, and will set you back $1,600 to $2,200 (₹1,30,000–₹1,80,000). Want to keep up with the It-girls? The Givenchy Antigona is everywhere, starting at $2,300 (₹1,90,000) and hitting $3,800 (₹3,20,000).

Then there’s the Salvatore Ferragamo Sofia, a little Italian film goddess energy between $2,000 (₹1,65,000) and $3,000 (₹2,50,000). Or maybe you want to channel old-money Americana with the Ralph Lauren Ricky— $3,500 (₹2,90,000) baseline, but if you want that ultra-rare, custom flex, you’ll have to spend $5,000+ (₹4,15,000).

Tip: If you want to spend a lot of money and are looking for an investment as well, might as well go for the holy grail: Hermès Birkin, Hermès Kelly, or Lady Dior. These bags are the epitome of handbags— totally iconic, always in style, and honestly, a good investment.  Not only do the classic handbags hold their value, but they also appreciate over time, making them an identical asset on the fashion arena and in portfolio valuation.

The Cultural Impact and Legacy of Luxury Handbags Named After Famous Women

In high fashion, luxury handbags hold cultural significance as representation of influence, identity, and aspiration – they are more than whimsical pieces of fabric. If a handbag is named for an iconic woman, it defines not only the look; it is her personality, history, and heritage – ending up with everlasting value. It is because of this that purses like the Hermès Birkin, the Lady Dior Purse, and the Gucci Jackie are forever masterpieces. It is based on key moments in history when fashion and culture collided.

The Hermès Birkin purse stands on its own as a great handbag with great quality, and it also is part of Jane Birkin’s effortless Parisian way and the role she played in redefining modern style. The Lady Dior, which will always be attached to Princess Diana, is also about so much more than just the bag itself. For so many it became a symbol of elegance, caring, and global admiration. Each new edition of that bag brought the world back to consider her legacy to fashion and humanitarian efforts.

Both the Hermès Birkin and the Lady Dior share common threads with other iconic accessories and successful associations with powerful women, and show how personal style and identity can inspire product and motion. Jackie Kennedy, with her impeccable polished effortlessness, turned the Gucci Jackie purse into a powerful international representation of understated chic. In contrast, Alexa Chung was able to display the cool, British laid-back aesthetic of her style, of global appeal, and Mulberry created the Alexa bag. She was a representation of the buoyancy, modern, fresh, and youthful persona of contemporary luxury.

In summary, we are trying to understand that these bags are not just luxury fashion’s signalling tropes; rather they serve as heritage heirlooms. They are acquired through reading, ambassadorship, interest or enthusiasm, while we may be drawn to a purse for its physical merits itself and exclusivity, we see it, remind us, and use it again as a way of thinking about this woman that had a commodifying influence on everything from standards of beauty to feminine power, interest, and style. 

Final Thoughts

In the fast-paced, always-changing world of fashion, trends become obsolete yearly if not sooner. But luxury handbags named after famous women will always be relevant. Each of these classic bag models, such as the Hermès Birkin, Hermès Kelly and Lady Dior, not to mention the Gucci Jackie, every one of them all carries a story beyond a trend, tells about the legacy of women who influenced fashion around the world, established their status and helped shape the global style. These women did so much more than wear attractive, status driven dresses. The value of these unique handbags is the undeniable connection that a famous woman has to a specific handbag, or a collection of handbags. They’re not merely handbags but cultural pieces, aspiration pieces, and pieces that can, at some point, be thought of as an investment. When you own and carry one of these iconic bags, you aren’t only showcasing unrivaled craftsmanship and a source of expensive materials, you’re emoting something from another time and place. You’re also carrying a symbol of a very special woman, and what she stood for as a unique individual.

For those who enjoy collecting, accruing status and luxury handbag aficionados, possession of one of these luxury handbags is not merely a status symbol but a moment, anecdote and identity.

As we enter the age of personal style and exclusivity more than ever before, these celebrity-inspiring luxury handbags will remain timeless declarations of artistry, innovation, and empowerment.

If you’re considering investing in a handbag that blends legacy, luxury, and prestige, these designs are not just purchases — they are heirlooms. Their enduring charm ensures that, decades from now, they will still be celebrated as icons of fashion and elegance.