Let’s face it—investing in a designer bag is a big decision. If you’re looking to enter the world of luxury accessories, you might feel the urge to dive right in with the season’s latest It-girl bag, but in fact, it’s best to take the time to consider a style that is not only going to stand the test of trends, but one that you genuinely love (and know you’re going to for years to come).

Timeless colours, seasonless silhouettes and luxury fabrics are what to look out for, and you’ll instantly realise the reason why the classics are, well… the classics. That’s not to say you can’t play into current trends though, as long as you’re sticking to classic shapes and sleek colourways that are easy to pair, the staple is sure to be front and centre in your wardrobe forever.

Below, five designer bags worth investing in this festive season.

Jacquemus’ iconic Le Chiquito mini bag might be small, but it packs a mighty punch. Simon Porte Jacquemus, the founder of the French luxury label, has long been praised for his vibrant colours, experimental shapes (à la the famous mini Le Chiquito) and an ode to ‘80s flair, but it’s his accessories that have really stood the test of time. For years, the Le Chiquito has been a staple on the celebrity and street style scene, and will no doubt continue to be, as the designer adds playful additions to the legendary style. Opt for a classic colourway, like the brand’s light brown that will be easy to pair.

In case you’ve missed it, Balenciaga’s Hourglass bag is having a major moment right now. Lately, Kim Kardashian West has sported Demna Gvasalia’s latest creation in just about every colourway, from classic black to a one-of-a-kind rhinestone-encrusted variation (which just about assures its icon status). The sculptural silhouette gives a modern update to an otherwise classic, versatile shape, and with its sleek black and gold finish, you’re sure to be treasuring this for years to come.

Bottega Veneta’s creative director Daniel Lee is no stranger to a viral bag, with the Italian luxury house’s signature Pouch Bag and Jodie Bag among the world’s most popular styles this season, seen on just about every celebrity you can imagine, from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley to Hailey Bieber. BV’s Point Bag is set for the same fate, predicted to become as iconic as the rest. Its simple, classically chic design makes it perfectly timeless, while the triangular top handle is an on-trend nod to the brand’s established house signature.

We all know the allure of Dior’s Saddle Bag, not only since it became an early ‘00s icon draped across the arm of Carrie Bradshaw (and real-life counterpart Sarah Jessica Parker), but more recently since John Galliano’s original design has been reinvigorated by the French fashion house. The Saddle Nano pouch plays on the signature shape of Dior’s original Saddle Bag, only offering it up in a timeless shape and colour.

Prada’s Cleo bag is everything you’d expect from a classic luxury accessory, both simple and sleek. The reimagined favourite actually takes influence from archival Prada that originally debuted in the ‘90s, with its streamlined and curved design a signature of the Italian fashion house. It’s easy to see why the shape has become so favoured, and if you opt for classic colours it’ll be a timeless addition to your designer wardrobe.

This article was brought to you by Her Black Book for Cosette.

Image Credits: @Prada, @Dior, @Jacquemus, Bottega Veneta, @Balenciaga