Originally known as the Fifties Constance, Gucci’s Jackie 1961 bag earned its iconic name after former First Lady Jackie Kennedy was famously photographed using it as a shield from paparazzi. And so, a timeless vintage classic was born. The Jackie 1961 underwent its first transformation in 1999, when Tom Ford, during his celebrated Gucci era, replaced the original lock with a sleek geometric buckle. A decade later, Frida Giannini revived the design in 2009, reintroducing its signature piston lock details. Then, in 2020, Alessandro Michele reissued the Jackie 1961, solidifying its status as a centerpiece of the Gucci legacy. More than just a handbag, the Jackie 1961 represents a defining moment in fashion history and a true cultural icon. With all the hallmarks of a style that transcends trends, it remains a collector’s treasure destined to hold its value for generations.

“We continue to see strong demand for both current and vintage versions, with average selling prices rising 24% to last year,” says Kelly McSweeney, The Real Real’s senior merchandising manager, of the Jackie 1961. Landyn Tedrick, the site merchandising specialist at Fashionphile, adds, “With the revival of vintage trends, the Jackie bag has seen a resurgence. The timeless design and ties to Gucci’s heritage strengthen its position in the resale market.”

  Gucci’s Jackie 1961 bag isn’t the only resale success story. This year, Chanel has also set new benchmarks in value retention. Elizabeth Layne, Chief Marketing Officer at Rebag, notes, “The Classic Flap was Chanel’s most-searched handbag style of 2024. While the Classic Single Flap has consistently maintained an average of 100% value retention over the years, the standout this year was the Classic Single Flap Top Handle Bag—a modern reimagining of the iconic design, now featuring a functional top handle.” Layne also highlights the popularity of Chanel’s Wallet on Chain as another top-searched item this year. Tedrick from Fashionphile echoes this sentiment, adding, “These styles are iconic pieces in Chanel’s collection, consistently appealing for their versatility and timeless allure. Not only do they dominate search trends, but they also command high resale value due to Chanel’s reputation for quality craftsmanship and enduring desirability.” Ranking alongside Chanel’s classic styles is a starkly different, yet equally noteworthy bag: The Row’s Margaux. A modern must-have, the Margaux is poised to become a future heirloom. Its sleek design, exclusivity, and star-studded fanbase—including Jennifer Lawrence, Kendall Jenner, and Zoë Kravitz—have made it highly sought after. The bag’s resale value reflects its popularity, with Stacey Chia, Head of Communications at Vestiaire, stating, “The resale price for this one is three times higher than in 2020.” McSweeney from The Real Real agrees, adding, “The Margaux sells for an average of 177% of its original retail price, with average selling prices increasing by $1,650 compared to last year.” Meanwhile, other highly coveted designs in 2024 include Toteme’s T-Lock bag, Bottega Veneta’s Andiamo, Gucci’s Jackie, and Fendi’s iconic Baguette. In today’s increasingly circular fashion market, choosing a handbag that retains or even appreciates in value is a savvy move. But there’s a method to identifying these investment-worthy pieces. “There are several characteristics to consider when evaluating a bag’s resale value,” explains McSweeney. “Look for visible elements that are classic or iconic to the brand, such as monogramming or recognizable logo hardware. Additionally, consider other brand hallmarks that are central to the brand’s DNA.” Limited production is another key factor that drives up resale value, as seen with The Row’s Margaux and Chanel’s Graffiti On The Pavement series. “Bags that are considered collectibles or produced in limited quantities are typically much more valuable in the resale market,” McSweeney adds. Tedrick of Fashionphile points out that a brand’s pricing strategy also impacts resale value. “Brands that consistently raise their retail prices tend to see corresponding increases in resale value. This makes their bags not just style statements but also smart financial investments. Their timeless appeal and limited availability keep demand high year after year.” Whether it’s a piece steeped in vintage history or a modern It bag, a handbag that holds its value is an investment worth making. According to experts at The Real Real, Fashionphile, and Vestiaire Collective, these are the bags that currently dominate the resale market and offer the highest returns on investment.