Making a new designer purchase can be intimidating no matter what the item is – but it can also be one of the best investments you ever make for your wardrobe. You all know now that there are a few things I always consider before splurging. One of them being versatility – I love a bag that’s as functional as it is stylish. That means I should be able to carry it whether I’m running errands, attending a business conference, or enjoying dinner with friends. I also try to gauge how well an item will retain its value, which why it takes me so long to jump on luxury trends. Having invested in designer pieces for quite some time now, I feel like I have a pretty good pulse on what’s worthy and what isn’t, so I thought I’d share 10 newer buys that just make sense in 2022.

 

Balmain Double Breasted Blazer | Superdown Lace Corset Bodysuit (also love this one) | Similar Faux Leather Shorts (also here) | Saint Laurent Icare Maxi Tote | Saint Laurent Shield Sunglasses (better for budget here)

I’ve only carried this bag a few times now, but can tell you I’ll get miles out of it! It’s one of the most spacious bags I own and easily houses the usuals (phone, keys, card cases or wallets) while giving you a ton of room for more. The bag features one main compartment and a removable zippered pouch so you can use the inside to your heart’s desire. I can’t say enough great things about it.

Open Edit Cardigan Set | Good American Faux Leather Pants (also here) | Schutz PVC Strap Heels | Saint Laurent Hobo Bag | Saint Laurent Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Saint Laurent’s Le 5 à 7 leather bag is quickly rising to It-Girl status given its modernized, ’90s era silhouette. Details like the iconic gold YSL hardware and structured shape are what drew me to this bag. It was made for easy styling so you can use it day or night – and it perfectly stocks the essentials. 

THE UPSIDE Marle Sports Bra | THE UPSIDE Marle High-rise Cropped Leggings | Saint Laurent Kate Reversible Suede Shoulder Bag | Golden Goose Superstar Leather Sneakers | Saint Laurent Aviator Sunglasses

If you have a hard time justifying the price of designer bags, this next one might make you reconsider as you essentially get two bags in one. The Saint Laurent Kate Reversible Suede Bag goes from suede to smooth leather with the flip of pushing the inside out. The chain strap is also detachable so you’re free to carry this one as a clutch or a shoulder bag. 

Madewell Double-Breasted Blazer | Alice + Olivia Satin Minidress | Stella McCartney Cowboy Boots (better for budget here and here) | Saint Laurent Hobo Bag | Celine Edge Sunglasses (similar here, better for budget here)

I never thought I’d splurge on cowboy boots but these were just too good to pass up. They’re the best balance of casual and structured with enough of a western flair to feel on-trend. That said, the cowboy vibes are understated enough to make these a classic. For more ways to wear them, you can head over to this post.

Karen Millen Black Gown | Tom Ford Padlock Heels (better for budget here) | Saint Laurent Lou Raffia Bag

I have a soft spot for beautiful designer heels – and the one I adore most this year is the Padlock Heels by Tom Ford. These shoes are truly a work of art, exuding a tough-luxe aesthetic that goes with so many different looks whether dressy or casual. I already know they’ll be my go-to this holiday season for various cocktail ready ensembles.

Anine Bing Camel Check Blazer (also here) | Anine Bing Nico Tweed Handbag | Naked Wardrobe Funnel Neck Romper | Balenciaga Baseball Cap

Not all designer bags need to cost thousands of dollars to be worthwhile. Such is the case with the Anine Bing Nico Bags, which have sold out several times already. I picked up the camel one about two months ago and love how it marries functionality with design. The bag strap can be carried over the shoulders or across the arm – and the size holds more than just your phone and keys. For only $299, you get a ton out of this medium-sized bag.

Balmain Blazer (also here, better for budget here) | Susana Monaco Tube Top | Superdown Faux Leather Skirt (wearing an XXS) | Gucci Horsebit 1955 Tote (similar here) | Bottega Veneta Sunglasses

This exact Gucci tote has sold out everywhere and is unavailable on pre-owned luxury sites, like Fashionphile and eBay. I think that truly spotlights the desirability of the bag. I personally love the soft, rounded shape, which looks so chic in and out of the office. The classic heritage print with the gold hardware also looks super classy – I know I can carry this bag forever. If you want a similar style, Gucci currently has one here.

525 Ribbed Cardigan | 525 Ottoman Tank Top | Similar Agolde Jeans | Bottega Veneta Sunglasses | Bottega Veneta Jodie Mini Tote (also love this one)

One summer bag that I will be carrying into the fall and winter months is the Bottega Veneta Jodie Mini Tote. I tend to prefer structured bags, but something about the slouchy, hobo design really piqued my attention. I ended up loving how lightweight it was along with the unique shape that was so different from anything else in my collection. The leather is incredibly soft to touch but feels so luxe at the same time. I enjoy this one as a going-out piece when I don’t intend on carrying much with me.

Mango Camel Coatigan | Anine Bing Hoodie (also love this one) | Amazon Biker Short Set | New Balance Sneakers (exact color sold out, similar here and here) | Balenciaga Baseball Cap (better for budget here) | Chloe Woody Tote

At this point in the year, I think I’ve raved enough about the Chloe Woody Tote. But in case you need a refresher, I wanted to highlight it once more. This lightweight, roomy tote is no doubt a wardrobe hero. It can carry everything you need for work, while traveling or even working out. If the neutral canvas feels too summery, you’ll love the shearling design for fall and winter. And if you missed out on my full review, you can check it out HERE.

Rag & Bone Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater | Rag & Bone Cropped Flare Jeans | Saint Laurent Hobo Bag | Christian Louboutin So Kate Pumps

Of all the designer pieces on the market, sunglasses are where I rarely splurge. My collection is quite curated with only a few pieces that I wear over and over again. I usually only acquire 1-2, if any, designer sunglasses each year. My favorite one of 2022 has to be these rimless aviators by Saint Laurent. They’re in alignment with the Y2K trend but feel way more modern and elevated. I love the oversized shape for that incognito effect.

xo, Maria