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Handbags are more than just an accessory for women – they are a true style statement and complement every outfit perfectly. While for most women, an affordable luxury bag does the job well, for the richest ones, money is no bar when it comes to splurging on the most expensive handbags in the world. These exclusive designer bags are priced at astronomical figures but still sell like hotcakes among the uber-rich due to their unparalleled craftsmanship, design, and brand value. Let us look at some of the costliest branded bags ever sold and what makes them so breathtakingly expensive.
1. Herald Extra Large Crocodile Birkin Bag by Hermès – $380,000
The top spot is a Hermès Birkin bag made from Nile crocodile skin. Sold at a Christie’s Hong Kong luxury accessories auction in 2017, this bag became the world’s most expensive handbag ever sold. Priced at $380,000, including commissions, this extra-large Birkin featured 18K white gold and diamond hardware.
What makes this bag so unique? Aside from the rare crocodile skin, Birkin bags by Hermès are the ultimate status symbols due to the brand’s exclusive craftsmanship and super high demand. Getting a Birkin directly from the brand involves being on their waiting list for years. Furthermore, Birkin bags hold their value exceptionally well over time, attracting wealthy collectors and investors towards them. No wonder this one bag shattered all records!
2. Himalayan Diamond Kelly Bag by Hermès – $225,000
Next up is a special edition Hermès Kelly bag encrusted with diamonds. This bag holds the record for the brand’s most expensive Hermès bag to be directly sold. The 18K white gold hardware alone was worth $100,000. But what sent its price spiralling was the 10,000 small-cut white diamonds weighing approximately 100 carats that created floral patterns on the front of the bag. Labeled the ‘Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile Diamond Kelly Bag’, this one-of-a-kind specimen was auctioned in 2017 for a staggering $225,000.
3. Crocodile Birkin with 18k White Gold Hardware by Hermès – $200,000
With a vast 30cm width, this rare piece is made entirely from Nile crocodile leather in a pristine white hue. The 18K white gold hardware, clochette, and pocket include rubies and a white alligator leather interior, adding immense luxury. This large statement bag was sold at a Hong Kong luxury goods auction in 2018 for an eye-popping $200,000. Just like the previous two, it exemplifies how certain exclusive Hermès bags can enter the luxury bag hall of fame by fetching enormous prices.
4. Venice Maxi Lambskin Tote by Bottega Veneta – $127,000
While brands like Hermès and Chanel dominate the ultra-luxury handbag space, the eye-watering price tag of this Bottega Veneta tote bag proves this relatively young Italian brand has also joined the big leagues. Auctioned at Christie’s in 2017, it was made from rare, calfskin lambskin leather in pristine white with 18K white gold details. The bag provides maximum space and Vintage appeal due to Bottega Veneta’s vintage-inspired designs. All this translated to an incredible final auction price of $127,000.
5. Crocodile Book Tote with 18k White Gold Fittings by Hermès – $103,000
A versatile tote silhouette gets a dramatic crocodile makeover with this exclusive piece from Hermès. Crafted from Nile crocodile leather in a luxe white shade, the book-inspired tote features open compartments adorned with 18K white gold fittings for durability. This ultra-rare specimen was auctioned at Christie’s in 2019 and generated massive buzz by fetching a record-breaking price tag of $103,000 for a tote model. It shows how Hermès raises the bar with every unique creation.
6. Pink Diamond Kelly Bag by Hermès – $100,000
More diamonds, more dollars! Decorated with a whopping 312 pink diamonds totalling over 20 carats, this one-of-one 18K pink gold Kelly double bag enchanted bidders at a Christie’s auction in Hong Kong in 2018. The diamonds formed a floral pattern on the padlock and pockets, in addition to elegant diamond detailing on the straps. It did not become the priciest Kelly model ever after its sale price hit $100,000, including commissions—a true wonder for diamond and luxury bag collectors.
7. Himalayan Bouquet Crocodile Kelly Bag by Hermès – $92,000
Yet another record-breaking Hermès special edition, this diamond-crusted Kelly bag indeed resembled a blooming bouquet. Covered with Nile crocodile leather in a light grey hue, its distinctive touch was 500 small-cut white diamonds forming flower embellishments on the front. Additional rubies on the clasp accentuated the blushing blooms. No wonder it fetched a selling price of $92,000 at a Fine Art Asia auction held in Hong Kong in 2017.
8. Camelia Silk Satchel by Judith Leiber – $85,000
American brand Judith Leiber holds a special place in bejewelled evening bags and clutches. This extremely rare all-white pouch is covered in Austrian crystals forming camellia buds, leaves, and vines. Expert artisans spent over 700 hours hand-embroidering the vivid bouquet on silk habotai. Adding to its exclusivity was the brand’s traditional minaudière interior for carrying essentials in the daintiest couture way. This magnificently crafted satchel was sold at a Beverly Hills estate sale for an impressive figure of $85,000.
9. Besace Tote by Chanel – $85,000
This oversized tote silhouette from Chanel has been revamped for a luxurious look due to its exotic skin. Crafted entirely from black crocodile leather, 18K burnished gold-tone accents and a woven chain shoulder strap further accentuate the sophisticated beach. The versatile tote has a generous flat bottom to hold numerous daily essentials. No wonder it achieved a sale price of $85,000, establishing it as one of the costliest Chanel totes.
10. Bejeweled Box with Sterling-Silver Frame by Patrick Kelly – $80,000
New York-based label Patrick Kelly was famous for its eccentric, playful designs during the 1980s. However, this box-inspired clutch took bejeweling to a whole new level. It featured Austrian crystals meticulously arranged to resemble peacock feathers over a sterling silver frame. Floral motifs and contrast beadwork added beauty and texture. Taking over 1,000 hours to complete, the one-off design was sold to a private collector for $80,000 at a recent Christie’s auction.
Conclusion
To say, what drives the prices of these exclusive handbags through the roof? A few key factors are luxurious exotic skins, intensive craftsmanship details, ultra-rare heritage, brand exclusivity & desirability, and historical or decorative value over time. While most luxury shoppers can’t afford these investment pieces, you can still pamper yourself with lovely premium hand bags online from Elbagino Luxury at great online prices! Let our wide assortment of designer bags elevate your style.
