Many luxury bag brands have embraced the concept of naming one of their bags after a celebrity. Let's explore some of the most popular designer bags and the icons they were named after, and, most importantly, delve into why a certain bag was named after a specific celebrity.
1. Jane Birkin - The Hermes Birkin Bag
Inspired by and named after the British actress and singer Jane Birkin, the Birkin bag by Hermès holds a legendary status in the world of luxury fashion.
Jane Birkin's influence on the creation of the Hermès Birkin bag highlights her status as a fashion icon and her ability to inspire one of the most coveted luxury items in the world. The inception of the Birkin bag traces back to a casual encounter with Jean-Louis Dumas, the then head of Hermès, on a flight from Paris to London in 1983. During the flight, Birkin's belongings fell out of her overstuffed straw bag, leading to a conversation between her and Dumas about the difficulties of finding a leather weekend bag she liked. Birkin outlined her ideal bag on the back of an airplane sick bag, which included the need for a sizeable, yet stylish leather bag that was both chic and functional.
This moment of candid feedback and creative input directly from Birkin herself resulted in the creation of a black supple leather bag, perfectly tailored to her needs, which later evolved into the Birkin bag known today. This incident illustrates her unintentional influence on luxury fashion.
Known for its exquisiteness and hefty price tag, which ranges from $12,000 to over $200,000, the Birkin bag features high-quality craftsmanship, a lock and key mechanism, and is available in various materials and colors, catering to the elite fashion circle’s desires.
Want to know how many Hermes Birkin bags are sold a year? Check out 51 facts about Hermes you didn't know.
2. Grace Kelly - The Hermes Kelly Bag
Another Hermès masterpiece, the Hermes Kelly bag, gets its name from the iconic American actress Grace Kelly, who became the Princess of Monaco.
The bag itself, originally known as the "Sac à Dépêches," was designed by Robert Dumas, a member of the Hermès family, in the 1930s. It was a refined, simple yet sophisticated handbag meant for daily use by high-society ladies.
Grace Kelly, an American actress who became the Princess of Monaco by marrying Prince Rainier III in 1956, was known for her impeccable taste and sophistication. She inadvertently turned the Hermès handbag into an iconic symbol. The pivotal moment came when she was photographed in 1956 using the bag to shield her pregnancy from the paparazzi. This photo of her carrying the then-unnamed Hermès bag graced the cover of Life magazine, making the handbag instantly famous worldwide.
Following this exposure, the bag became closely associated with Kelly, to the extent that the public began referring to it as the "Kelly" bag. Recognizing the bag's immense popularity and the elegance Grace Kelly lent to their creation, Hermès officially renamed the bag in her honor. The Hermès Kelly bag has since embodied the essence of Grace Kelly's elegance.
Introduced in the 1930s but renamed after Kelly in 1956, this bag's price starts at around $13,000, signifying its high status and desirability.
3. Jackie Kennedy - The Jackie Bag
The Jackie bag by Gucci is named after the former First Lady of the United States, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who was frequently spotted with this accessory.
The Gucci Jackie bag, originally introduced in the 1950s, was not initially named after Jackie Kennedy. Bags were huge in the women's clothing in 1950s. Its association with the former First Lady came later, as she was frequently seen carrying the bag, leading to its popular nickname, "Jackie". This iconic handbag, recognized for its distinctive hobo shape, became especially prominent during the bohemian movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
Launched in the 1950s and rebranded as "The Jackie" in 1961, the bag features a unique piston closure and a classic shape.
Since its debut, the Jackie bag has undergone several reinventions by Gucci's creative directors, including ones by Tom Ford in 1999 and Frida Giannini in 2009. Most recently, the bag was relaunched as the "Jackie 1961" under Alessandro Michele's direction. The reissue not only serves as an ode to its initial release year but also reflects the enduring appeal of this classic accessory.
The Jackie bag, both in its vintage and modern forms, remains a popular item in Gucci’s collection, featured in many contemporary ensembles worn by celebrities and fashion influencers today3.
Priced from $3,400 and up, Jackie's appeal lies in its blend of classic design with practical functionality.
4. Sofia Lauren - Salvatore Ferragamo's The Sofia Bag
In tribute to the timeless beauty and distinctive charm of an iconic Italian actress Sofia Loren, Salvatore Ferragamo introduced the Sofia Bag.
The Salvatore Ferragamo Sofia bag is a beautifully crafted luxury handbag that was first introduced in the Spring/Summer collection of 2009. Named after the legendary Italian actress Sophia Loren, the bag honors her status as a muse and loyal customer of the Ferragamo brand.
From the outset, this elegant accessory was called the "Sofia" bag, reflecting its association with Sophia Loren's renowned grace and style. Its design and construction draw on traditional craftsmanship, emphasizing the brand's commitment to quality and luxury.
As for its current availability, the Sofia bag was discontinued. You can only find this style preloved.
The Sofia Bag’s structured silhouette, combined with its soft leather construction, reflects the poise and grace of its namesake. Features such as the Gancini clasp and optional shoulder strap speak to the brand’s heritage as well as Loren’s versatile and enduring style.
With steep prices starting around $3,000 per bag, Salvatore Ferragamo remains an Italian luxury fashion brand and one of the oldest luxury brands in the world that carries a lot of fashion legacy.
5. Princess Diana - Dior's Lady Dior bag
The Dior Lady Dior bag was first launched in 1995, quickly capturing the fashion world's attention. Its lasting connection with Princess Diana began when she received the bag as a gift from the First Lady of France, Bernadette Chirac, during a visit to Paris. Princess Diana was photographed carrying the bag at several high-profile events shortly after receiving it, which helped cement its place as a symbol of stylish elegance.
The bag, which wasn't originally called "Lady Dior," was quickly associated with Princess Diana due to how often she was seen with it. She wore the accessory to multiple events and invested heavily in its appeal. In recognition of her influence and as a gesture of admiration, Dior renamed the bag to "Lady Dior."
Today, the Lady Dior remains a key part of Dior's luxury collection. Known for its classic look, each season brings slight variations to the design to keep it fresh while maintaining its original charm. Continuously popular, the Lady Dior bag stands as a tribute not only to its quality design but also to Princess Diana's personality and her influence on fashion.
6. Pippa Middleton - The Modalu Pippa Bag
The Modalu Pippa handbag owes its name and much of its popularity to Pippa Middleton, the sister of Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. The connection began quite organically when Pippa was spotted carrying a Modalu handbag the day after her sister's famous wedding to Prince William in April 2011. The images of her with the bag circulated widely and sparked an immediate surge in demand for it.
Recognizing the marketing opportunity, Modalu quickly renamed the bag in her honor, calling it the "Pippa." This move capitalized on the spotlight that was already on Pippa following the royal wedding, where her appearance had made headlines. Modalu reintroduced the bag as part of its collection, which helped the brand gain significant attention and boosted its sales.
The Pippa handbag itself features a classic, structured shape that makes it versatile for both casual and formal occasions. It's typically made from high-quality leather and comes in various colors to suit different styles. The bag is characterized by multiple compartments, zippers, and a flap closure, making it both functional and stylish. Its design reflects a sophisticated yet practical approach, aligning well with Pippa Middleton's personal style, which is known for its polished and accessible fashion choices.
Since its release, the Modalu Pippa handbag has seen multiple iterations and remains a popular item in the brand’s lineup. Their smart branding strategy that linked the bag to a high-profile figure like Pippa Middleton was timely.
7. Amal Clooney - Ballin's The Amal Bag
The Ballin Amal handbag was named after Amal Clooney, a respected human rights lawyer, and the wife of actor George Clooney. This naming was a tribute to Amal Clooney's elegance, style, and her role as a powerful figure in both the legal world and fashion spheres. The Italian luxury fashion brand Ballin, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and high-quality leather goods, chose to honor her in this unique way, highlighting her as a style icon and influential personality.
The bag was released in 2015, during a time when Amal Clooney was frequently in the news for her high-profile cases and her marriage to George Clooney. Her appearances at various events, always impeccably dressed and accessorized, caught the attention of the fashion world. The Amal handbag was thus introduced to the market at a moment when Amal Clooney was a highly visible figure, and public interest in her style was at its peak.
The Amal handbag reflects Amal Clooney's personal style. It's a tote bag made from high-quality leather, offering both durability and elegance. The design is relatively simple yet highly functional, with enough space to carry essentials for work or leisure. It usually comes in neutral colors, making it an ideal accessory for a wide range of professional outfits and occasions. The bag is also fitted with refined hardware and has a distinctive closure, adding to its overall appeal and making it recognizable.
Since its release, the Ballin Amal handbag has enjoyed considerable success. It's been a popular choice among women who appreciate its blend of practicality and style, mirroring the characteristics that have made Amal Clooney a respected figure beyond her celebrity status.
8. Jessica Stam - The Marc Jacobs Stam Bag
The Marc Jacobs Stam bag, named after the Canadian model Jessica Stam, is a creation that emerged from the mid-2000s when designer handbags became the ultimate fashion statement. Jessica Stam, known for her distinctive look and her rise in the fashion industry as one of the prominent models of her time, became the muse for this particular piece. Marc Jacobs, recognizing Stam's appeal and the impact she had on the runway, decided to name this new, stylish bag after her, cementing her status within the fashion world.
Released in 2005, the Stam bag quickly rose to popularity and became one of the iconic it-bags of the era. Its design was inspired by the classic quilted Chanel bags, but with a modern twist that appealed to younger audiences. The Stam bag captured the essence of the mid-2000s fashion, combining luxury with a fresh, contemporary edge.
The bag itself features a quilted leather exterior, invoking a luxurious feel while maintaining a trendy aesthetic. It has a kiss-lock closure reminiscent of vintage purses and often comes with chunky hardware that adds to its unique look. The Stam bag is also known for its spacious interior, making it not only a stylish accessory but also a practical one for everyday use. It usually includes a detachable chain strap, giving the option to wear it as a shoulder bag or carry it as a tote, which adds to its versatility.
Over the years, the Marc Jacobs Stam bag has seen various re-releases and limited edition variations, maintaining its status as a beloved piece for many handbag enthusiasts. Even as trends have shifted, the Stam bag remains a testament to the time when it first appeared - reflecting the glamorous and bold fashion of the mid-2000s and the influence that high-profile models like Jessica Stam had on the industry. Its continued relevance is a nod to the foresight of Marc Jacobs in creating a design that resonates well beyond its initial release period.
9. Alexa Chung - Mulberry's The Alexa Bag
The Mulberry Alexa bag, a satchel that perfectly combines classic design with a modern twist, was named after the British model, TV presenter, and fashion icon, Alexa Chung. Known for her distinctive, effortlessly chic style, Alexa Chung became a style muse for many around the world, including the creative heads at Mulberry. Her ability to blend vintage finds with contemporary fashion pieces caught the eye of Mulberry's designers, who saw in her the embodiment of their brand ethos: timeless, understated elegance combined with functionality.
Released in 2010, the Alexa bag quickly ascended to "it bag" status. Its design was inspired by the traditional, structured shape of a briefcase, but with a grain of Alexa Chung's modern, laid-back twist. As Chung was often photographed carrying an old Mulberry men's briefcase, releasing a purse in her honor was logical.
The Alexa bag boasts features that cater to both form and function, including Mulberry's signature postman's lock, a roomy interior, and a plaited leather top handle, along with an adjustable cross-body strap for versatility.
Over a decade since its launch, the Alexa bag remains a symbol of the pervasive influence celebrities have on fashion, and how their personal style can inspire timeless pieces that transcend seasons and trends. Mulberry's decision to name the bag after Alexa Chung underscores the powerful connection between the brand and the muse, resulting in a creation that perfectly captured the spirit of its time while remaining relevant to this day. The Alexa bag's enduring popularity is a testament to the synergy between Mulberry's craftsmanship and Chung's style influence.
10. Lana Del Rey - Mulberry's Lana Del Rey Bag
Turns out, Mulberry often uses the good old trick of naming its handbags after celebrities to elevate the brand in the eyes of the public.
The Mulberry Del Rey bag is an homage to the American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey, whose evocative music and vintage Hollywood-inspired aesthetic resonates with a sense of timeless glamour. Lana Del Rey emerged as a cultural icon, winning over fans with her cinematic style and nostalgic tunes that recall the bygone era of the 1950s and 60s. Her unique blend of modern and retro influences made her a fitting muse for Mulberry, a brand celebrated for its classic English luxury and impeccable craftsmanship.
Introduced in 2012, the Del Rey bag debuted during a period when celebrity-inspired designer items were soaring in popularity. Mulberry sought to capture the essence of Lana Del Rey's personal style; the result was a bag that reflects her sophisticated and sultry image. The Del Rey became another testimony to the trend of naming high-fashion accessories after celebrities, following in the successful footsteps of items like the Marc Jacobs Stam bag and the Mulberry Alexa.
The design of the Del Rey bag exudes a simple yet elegant structure. It's typified by its refined shape and practicality, mirroring the singer's alluring blend of classic and contemporary tastes. The bag featured Mulberry's trademark postman’s lock closure, two top handles, and a soft leather exterior, creating a look that is both luxurious and understated. The interior of the bag is spacious, coupled with pockets that add functionality to its sophisticated silhouette. The Del Rey further distinguished itself with its wide range of textures and colors, allowing it to speak to a variety of styles and occasions.
Throughout its history, the Mulberry Del Rey bag has adeptly captured the sentimental essence associated with Lana Del Rey's public persona and music. It upholds the brand's reputation for creating beautifully crafted accessories that carry an air of the extraordinary. Like its namesake, the Del Rey bag quickly garnered a devote following, securing its spot as yet another classic within the Mulberry collection. The enduring appeal of the Del Rey bag lies in its ability to fuse nostalgic beauty with a modern sensibility, much like the artist who inspired it.
11. Diane Kruger - The Diane Bag
The Jason Wu Diane bag is named after Diane Kruger, a well-known German actress with a strong sense of style that catches people's attention both during fancy events and in everyday life. Kruger is not just any celebrity but a close friend of designer Jason Wu. They worked together on this project, making sure the bag reflected Kruger's taste and daily needs. Wu, a designer from Taiwan and Canada, has a reputation for making clothes and accessories that feel current but also timeless, and Diane Kruger fit perfectly as the face for this balance.
The Diane bag hit the shelves in fall 2015, born out of a real-life friendship between Wu and Kruger. The idea was to make a bag that was more than just a piece carrying Kruger's name. The actress gave her thoughts and feedback during the design process, which meant the final product was designed for someone with a busy lifestyle who also wanted to look good.
In terms of its design, the Diane bag keeps it simple and elegant. It's shaped like a classic satchel with strapped buckles and an easy-to-use lock in the front. Made with high-quality leather, the bag looks good without being too flashy. It's also just the right size for everyday items, providing a good choice for both casual days and fancier nights out. Inside, it has multiple pockets to keep things organized, combining ease of use with a neat style.
The creation of the Jason Wu Diane bag not only marked Kruger's influence on fashion but also showed how a real partnership between a designer and a friend can turn into something special. It's a piece that fashion fans appreciate not just for its looks, but for the story behind it. This bag is a product of Wu's design expertise along with Kruger's personal touch, making it a favored item amongst those who enjoy a good backstory with their style.
12. Cara Delevigne - Mulberry's The Cara bag
And it's Mulberry again.
The Mulberry Cara bag is a collaboration between the iconic British fashion brand, Mulberry, and the famous model and actress Cara Delevingne. Known for her bold eyebrows, unique style, and vibrant personality, Cara has become a significant influence in the fashion world. Mulberry, wanting to blend their classic design with Cara's modern twist, decided to name this special bag after her. This partnership aimed to create a bag that reflected Cara's spirit and versatility, as well as Mulberry's dedication to quality craftsmanship.
Launched in 2014, the Cara bag quickly became a sought-after piece in the fashion industry. The collaboration was not just about slapping a famous name on a product; Cara was deeply involved in the design process, ensuring that the bag was a true representation of her style and functionality needs. The result was a bag that wasn't just about looks but also about the practicality that fit an active, on-the-go lifestyle like Cara's.
The Cara bag is notable for its unique design elements that set it apart. It can be worn in multiple ways: as a backpack, a shoulder bag, or handheld, making it incredibly versatile and suited to various occasions. This adaptability mirrors Cara's ability to slip into any role, whether on the runway, in front of the camera, or in everyday life. The bag features Mulberry's signature postman's lock but with a twist that includes lion rivets and a heart shape, paying homage to Cara's famous lion tattoo and her love for hearty and bold designs.
This collaboration between Mulberry and Cara Delevingne highlights the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary flair. It underscores the idea that fashion pieces can be both practical and stylish, embodying the essence of a woman who lives a dynamic, multifaceted life. The Cara bag, with its unique attributes and the story of the collaboration behind it, remains a beloved accessory for those who admire Cara's rebellious spirit and Mulberry's commitment to quality.
13. Louis Vuitton SC bag
The SC Louis Vuitton bag is a stylish and well-made handbag, which became a bit of a symbol for simple but high-end accessories. It was born from a team-up between Louis Vuitton and American movie director Sofia Coppola, who is known for making films with strong visual storylines. Coppola liked the brand and had a special way of dressing that was cool and easygoing, so she worked with them to make this new bag. They named it SC as a nod to her initials.
Sofia Coppola comes from a family well-known in the movie business, but she made a name for herself with movies like "Lost in Translation" and "The Virgin Suicides." Her movies are known for looking great and telling deep stories in a way that's a bit different from others. When she worked on the SC bag, she wanted it to not just look good but to be something you could use every day without it being too flashy.
Launched in 2009, the Louis Vuitton Sofia Coppola bag stands out for being simple and not too showy. It's made from soft leather and has a lining on the inside that feels like suede. There's plenty of room inside with extra pockets, so it's handy as well as good-looking. The design is not overly complicated, and it doesn't have big logos or bright hardware. Instead, it’s quietly stylish, and you can pick from different colors, sticking to an elegant taste that matches many styles.
The bag got its name from Sofia Coppola because she heavily influenced how it turned out, merging the bag's good craftsmanship with her own laid-back style. The SC bag is liked by people who want something fancy but not in an obvious way, kind of like Coppola herself, who mixes her own creative style with timeless appeal. In today's fashion, the SC Louis Vuitton bag is one many people wish to have because it's useful, looks good, and feels special.
14. Victoria Beckham - The Victoria Bag
Victoria Beckham, known for her sharp fashion sense and successful foray into the design world, lent her name to the Victoria Bag by Victoria Beckham. This minimalist yet sophisticated tote was introduced in 2011.
The Victoria bag is a simple, stylish accessory from Victoria Beckham's fashion line. It carries her name, showing it's a piece she's closely connected to and reflects her taste and her journey from being in the Spice Girls to becoming a respected name in fashion.
Victoria Beckham first became famous in the '90s as Posh Spice, and she later made a big change by moving into the fashion business. Starting her brand in 2008, she focused on making clothes and accessories that were straightforward and high-quality, echoing her own way of dressing.
Released around 2011, the Victoria bag quickly stood out. It's made with good-quality leather and has a clean, uncomplicated look, available in different colors. It's designed to be useful, with enough space inside and just a small logo showing who made it. This bag fits Beckham's belief that good style means keeping things uncomplicated and focusing on what's necessary.
Naming the bag 'Victoria' after herself was Beckham's way of stamping her mark on the fashion world, showing how far she's come from her pop star days to being taken seriously in fashion. The Victoria bag is more than just something to carry your things in; it represents Beckham's personal style evolution and her success in creating fashion that's meant to last.
Its price range, starting at approximately $3,000, indicates the luxury bag status.
15. Emily Ratajkowski - Kooples' The Emily bag
The Kooples, a clothing line from France known for its simple yet sharp style, stepped into the handbag market with the Emily bag. They named it after Emily Ratajkowski, an American model and actress who became well-known after appearing in music videos and the movie "Gone Girl." Emily's known not just for her modeling work, but also for having a great sense of style. In designing the Emily bag, she worked closely with The Kooples, pouring her own fashion tastes into the design.
This bag was introduced to the world in 2017. The goal was to create a bag that looked good but was also easy to use, day or night, just like Emily's own style. It had to be something that would work well with The Kooples' laid-back yet sharp fashion.
When you look at the Emily bag, you'll notice it has a neat and tidy look, with smooth or sometimes bumpy leather, depending on which one you pick. It comes across as elegant without trying too hard. It's got a front flap to close it, a metal buckle detail, and a very small brand logo. The bag has a strap that you can take off, which lets you carry it over your shoulder or across your body, making it useful in many situations. It's not too big inside but is designed smartly to hold quite a bit. The Emily bag is sold in different sizes and colors, so there's a variety to choose from.
People liked the bag a lot, partly because it was useful and looked good, and also because Emily Ratajkowski's name was on it. Having her involved in the design process helped make the bag a hit. Today, the Emily bag is still a popular choice for those who like The Kooples' blending of modern and classic looks in accessories.
Conclusion
Luxury handbags named after celebrities are more than just a fashion statement; they are a melding of personal stories, iconic statuses, and timeless design. These hand-crafted pieces act as a bridge between the personal styles of the celebrities they’re named after and the fashion-forward individuals who carry them. Influencing fashion trends and consumer preferences, these bags capture the essence of the celebrities they represent, forever leaving their mark on the fashion landscape.
