There is a popular saying that we carry our lives in our handbags, but in my case, that’s not entirely true. I carry my life in my wallet. From the obvious items, such as my ID and credit cards, to my very important Cha Cha Matcha stamp card that provides a free drink with every 10 purchases, I often resort to simply carrying around my wallet instead of my entire handbag when I’m seeking convenience. That being said, when I do choose to carry my Chanel bag with me, there is a simple pleasure to be gained from reaching inside it to pay for my matcha latte and pulling out… a matching Chanel wallet. The devil is in the details, and in this case, that detail is a finely made, exquisitely stitched leather wallet.
Often providing an affordable access point to a luxury brand, a classic designer wallet is an elegant and easy way to upgrade your accessories. As young adults living in the fashion world, it’s high time we ditch the bulky wallets (often bursting at the seams with coins and receipts) we’ve kept since college and replace them with sleek, compact wallets that only carry the necessities. Below, we’ve rounded up the best designer wallets so you can make the transition faster than your friends will compliment you on your new purchase.
The Lyst Index recently revealed Saint Laurent’s Monogram wallet had achieved “icon status” as one of the most-searched accessories on the internet. Carried by the likes of Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, Saint Laurent makes a classic, sleek wallet that will fit perfectly in your handbag or in your hand, if you decide to forgo the bag altogether.
The Lyst Index is at it again, awarding Gucci the title of the most popular brand in the world. Specifically, Gucci wallets are some of the most coveted, with the GG Marmont wallet at the top of the list. Even Alessandro Michele has admitted the monogrammed wallet is one of the most sought-after products. It seems stars like Reese Witherspoon and Emily Ratajkowski are convinced, as they’ve regularly been seen sporting the style.
Daniel Lee called his debut line with Bottega Veneta a “palate cleanser.” Consider my palette cleansed: Bottega Veneta has always been a chic and elegant choice, but these colors and the timeless Intrecciato motif make it a particularly classic choice. Salma Hayek and Shay Mitchell seem to agree.
Prada has been referred to as Hollywood’s favorite brand, and the stars seem to agree. Prada’s wallets with it’s iconic Saffiano leather has long been a popular choice among the fashion set, with its traditional, simple style making it versatile. This style has been around forever, and you’ve likely seen it worn by everyone from Jennifer Garner to Lily Collins.
While we love Gucci’s more modern GG Marmont wallet, the 1955 wallet with horse bit-inspired hardware also makes a classic choice.
If you, like most of us, can’t afford a Birkin bag at this point in your life, the Hermès Epsom wallet is a close second. While any accessory from Hermès is a sizable investment, they’re worth considering as each piece is equally timeless and chic.
Since Jonathan Anderson was appointed creative director in 2013, Loewe has continued to experience a rise in popularity. Historically known for its superior leather craftsmanship, a new sense of creativity and energy has been infused into the brand, resulting in pieces like the now-infamous Puzzle bag and this textured wallet. Carried in the hands of fashion people like Irene Kim, Loewe has quickly become a must-have.
This brand and wallet need little introduction. With the timeless quilted pattern and the double-C logo, this wallet is practically begging you to pair it with the Chanel Boy bag. Forever adored by the fashion set, the social elite, and yours truly, Chanel can do no wrong.
When you’re looking for a little edge without, say, pricking your fingers on a Louboutin, Valentino is the way to go. With Pierpaolo Piccioli at the helm, Valentino has walked the fine line between graceful couture and youthful vibrance, and this mini wallet is made to be taken out on the town.
Louis Vuitton’s Zippy wallet is one of the brand’s signature pieces. Consistently redesigned and updated, this original pays homage to the brand’s classic monogram and colorway. Louis Vuitton has always been the picture of French glamour, and this wallet is no exception.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.