For fashion lovers, handbags are more than accessories—they’re statements, investments, and sometimes even legends. Whether you’re obsessed with vintage Hermès, dream of starting your own bag brand, or just want to dive deeper into fashion history, there’s a book out there that will speak to your handbag-loving heart.
From glossy coffee-table tomes to insider business stories and style guides, we’ve curated the best books about handbags that every fashion lover should have on their shelf. These reads celebrate the artistry, evolution, and obsession behind the most iconic (and elusive) arm candy in the world.
1. “Handbags: The Power of the Purse” by Anna Johnson
This elegant read is more than a visual feast—it’s a love letter to the handbag. Johnson dives into the psychological and cultural significance of bags through time, exploring how purses became symbols of status, freedom, and femininity.
Expect beautiful illustrations, historical anecdotes, and reflections that any true fashion lover will appreciate.
Why you’ll love it:
- It explores the emotional connection we have with our handbags.
- Great for fashion lovers who want to think more deeply about the role of accessories in self-expression.
2. “Bringing Home the Birkin: My Life in Hot Pursuit of the World’s Most Coveted Handbag” by Michael Tonello
This part-memoir, part-fashion exposé follows Tonello’s real-life adventures as a globe-trotting reseller chasing down elusive Hermès Birkins. With wit, charm, and a bit of scandal, it unveils the mysterious—and often absurd—world of luxury bag hunting.
Why you’ll love it:
- Equal parts entertaining and informative, with a front-row seat to the Birkin black market.
- If you’ve ever asked “Why is the Birkin so expensive?” this book spills the tea.
3. “The Pocket: A Hidden History of Women’s Lives” by Barbara Burman and Ariane Fennetaux
While not about handbags in the traditional sense, this academic yet engaging read explores how women’s fashion has historically hidden their belongings—from pockets to purses. It uncovers centuries of design evolution that paved the way for the modern handbag.
Why you’ll love it:
- A thoughtful, feminist look at fashion, function, and freedom.
- Ideal for readers interested in the intersection of fashion and women’s history.
4. “Louis Vuitton City Bags: A Natural History” by Rizzoli
Louis Vuitton’s influence on handbags is undeniable, and this stunning book is a tribute to the maison’s most iconic shapes. From the Speedy to the Alma to the Neverfull, this book deconstructs the silhouettes that became status symbols around the world.
Why you’ll love it:
- It’s the ultimate LV collector’s bible.
- Richly photographed and packed with details on structure, materials, and legacy.
5. “Chanel: The Vocabulary of Style” by Jérôme Gautier
While this book spans more than just handbags, it’s a must-have for any fashion lover interested in Chanel’s enduring influence on accessory design. You’ll find visual stories of how the brand’s bags evolved alongside its clothing—especially the timeless 2.55 flap bag.
Why you’ll love it:
- It places handbags in the context of Coco Chanel’s radical vision of elegance.
- A collector’s dream, with rare images of muses, celebrities, and haute couture.
6. “How to Be Parisian Wherever You Are” by Anne Berest, Audrey Diwan, Caroline de Maigret & Sophie Mas
While this isn’t a book just about handbags, its chapters on effortless style, attitude, and yes—accessories—will absolutely charm anyone who believes in the power of a great bag to complete a look.
Why you’ll love it:
- It’s witty, chic, and unabashedly French.
- The handbag section is small but iconic—just like a perfect clutch.
Final Thoughts: Bag Lovers, This One’s for You
Whether you’re a collector, designer, or simply someone who swoons over a structured tote or vintage clutch, these best books about handbags offer something for every kind of fashion lover. From deep-dive histories and design inspiration to juicy industry memoirs, they celebrate the artistry, obsession, and cultural impact of the world’s most beloved accessory.
Ready to turn the page on your next fashion obsession? Don’t forget to add these reads to your cart—and maybe your wishlist of dream bags too.
