Fashion Icons and Their Favorite Italian Handbags

Italian handbags have long been a symbol of luxury, elegance, and timeless style. For decades, they’ve been the go-to accessory for fashion icons, celebrities, and trendsetters who appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines Italian design. From royalty to Hollywood stars, some of the world’s most influential fashion figures have been known to carry iconic Italian handbags. Let’s explore a few fashion icons and the Italian handbags they’ve made famous.

1. Jackie Kennedy: Gucci’s "Jackie" Bag

Source: LBB

Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was not only a style icon in her own right but also instrumental in propelling Gucci’s "Jackie" bag to global fame. Originally named the "Constance" bag, this simple yet sophisticated hobo design became synonymous with Jackie’s chic and effortless style. Whether she was spotted in Capri or New York, Jackie often paired her elegant, tailored outfits with the soft, curved lines of the Gucci bag, elevating its status to a must-have accessory for fashion lovers worldwide.

Gucci has since reintroduced the "Jackie" bag in various sizes and materials, paying homage to the timeless appeal of the bag and the woman who made it an icon.

2. Sophia Loren: Fendi’s "Peekaboo" Bag

Source: Preview

As one of Italy’s most celebrated actresses, Sophia Loren embodies the glamour and allure of Italian cinema and fashion. Loren has frequently been seen carrying Fendi’s "Peekaboo" bag, a symbol of understated elegance and versatility. The Peekaboo, with its minimalist design and subtle luxury, perfectly complements Loren’s classic, graceful style.

Introduced in 2009, the Fendi Peekaboo has quickly become a modern classic, thanks in part to its association with icons like Loren. The bag’s unique structure, featuring a semi-exposed interior, adds a playful twist to an otherwise structured silhouette, making it a favourite among both celebrities and everyday fashion enthusiasts.

3. Princess Diana: Tod’s "D Bag"

Princess Diana was known for her impeccable taste and the ability to seamlessly blend elegance with modernity. Among her many favourite accessories was the Tod’s "D Bag," which she carried during her travels and public appearances. Named in her honour, the D Bag represents the perfect fusion of Italian craftsmanship and refined simplicity.

Diana’s preference for the bag showcased her appreciation for timeless pieces that could transition from day to evening. The bag remains one of Tod’s most iconic designs, continuing to be a favourite for royalty and celebrities alike.

4. Audrey Hepburn: Salvatore Ferragamo’s Classic Handbag

Source: L’officiel

Audrey Hepburn’s love affair with Italian fashion extended beyond her famous roles; she had a personal affinity for Salvatore Ferragamo’s designs. Known for his impeccable shoes, Ferragamo also created stunning handbags that suited Hepburn’s iconic, minimalist style.

The simple elegance of Ferragamo handbags, often featuring clean lines and understated details, made them a staple in Hepburn’s wardrobe. Whether off-duty or gracing red carpets, Hepburn’s Ferragamo bags were the perfect complement to her timeless fashion choices, cementing her status as one of the most enduring fashion icons in history.

5. Rihanna: Bottega Veneta’s "Pouch" Bag

Source: Purse Blog

Global superstar Rihanna is known for her daring and trend-setting style. Among her collection of luxury bags, Bottega Veneta’s "Pouch" bag has become one of her go-to accessories. The Pouch, designed by creative director Daniel Lee, is a modern interpretation of Bottega Veneta’s signature weaving technique, reimagined as a minimalist, oversized clutch with soft, voluminous leather.

Rihanna’s embrace of the Pouch has helped solidify its place as a must-have item for fashion-forward individuals, showcasing how modern Italian designs continue to influence global trends. The Pouch’s luxurious feel and bold, unstructured design make it a versatile piece for both casual and glamorous outfits, reflecting Rihanna’s own eclectic style.

6. Sarah Jessica Parker: Prada’s Nylon Backpack

Source: Popsugar

As the star of "Sex and the City," Sarah Jessica Parker (and her character Carrie Bradshaw) is a name synonymous with fashion. One of Parker’s favourite Italian handbags, both on and off-screen, is Prada’s iconic nylon backpack. Launched in the 1980s, this utilitarian design marked a bold departure from traditional luxury handbags, using industrial-strength nylon to create a bag that was both durable and stylish.

Parker has been seen wearing Prada’s nylon backpack countless times, proving that this Italian classic can effortlessly blend luxury and practicality. Prada’s innovative use of materials helped redefine what a luxury handbag could be, and Parker’s endorsement of this bag has made it a timeless staple.

7. Angelina Jolie: Valentino’s "V-Ring" Bag

Source: Time International

Angelina Jolie’s sophisticated and classic style makes her a perfect match for Valentino’s "V-Ring" bag. Known for her sleek, polished looks, Jolie often opts for handbags that are equally refined yet understated. The V-Ring, with its elegant gold hardware and minimalist design, has become a key accessory in her wardrobe.

Jolie’s preference for Valentino bags aligns with her overall fashion ethos: timeless, elegant, and effortlessly chic. The V-Ring bag’s structured shape and luxurious feel reflect the impeccable craftsmanship of Valentino, continuing the tradition of Italian excellence in handbag design.

8. Meghan Markle: Strathberry's Crossbody Bags

Source: A&E Magazine

While not Italian, Meghan Markle's love for luxury bags extends to the fine craftsmanship seen in Italian handbag design. Markle has been seen wearing bags from Italian brands such as Bottega Veneta and Tod's during her royal engagements. Her sophisticated yet modern style favours pieces that are both versatile and high-quality, highlighting how Italian luxury bags remain a go-to choice for influential women worldwide.

Italian Handbags as Fashion Statements

Italian handbags have graced the arms of some of the world’s most iconic fashion figures, transcending trends and establishing themselves as timeless pieces of art. Whether through classic designs or bold innovations, these bags continue to be cherished by fashion icons for their unmatched craftsmanship, luxury, and enduring appeal.

Explore the collections at  Italian Luxury Group to discover the handbags favoured by fashion’s elite and see how these timeless pieces can elevate your style. Our luxury brands include Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Balmain, Brunello Cucinelli, and Burberry. Next month, we are thrilled to introduce Fendi and Saint Laurent, with two new luxury brands joining our collection every month.