Chanel, Louis Vuitton, or Hermès: Which Brand Holds Its Value Best?

When investing in a luxury handbag, it’s not just about style—it’s about value. Some designer bags appreciate over time, making them not only fashion statements but also smart financial choices. But which brand holds its value best: Chanel, Louis Vuitton, or Hermès? Let’s dive into the resale market and break down the pros and cons of each.

Resale Value Trends: The Big Three

1. Hermès: The King of Luxury Resale

Resale Value: 80%-120% of retail price (and often more!)
Top Investment Pieces: Birkin, Kelly, Constance

Hermès bags, especially the Birkin and Kelly, are the gold standard in the resale world. Thanks to their extreme exclusivity, these bags often sell for more than their retail price on the secondary market. The limited production, high demand, and strict buying process keep prices soaring. In fact, some rare Birkins have passed both gold and the stock market in value appreciation.

Pros:
☑ Skyrocketing resale value
☑ Limited production keeps demand high
☑ Timeless designs

Cons:
ⓧ Difficult to purchase at retail
ⓧ Requires a relationship with an Hermès sales associate
ⓧ Higher upfront investment

2. Chanel: A Strong Contender with Premium Pricing

Resale Value: 60%-80% of retail price (higher for classic pieces)
Top Investment Pieces: Classic Flap, 2.55 Reissue, Boy Bag

Chanel bags are legendary investments, particularly the Classic Flap. With Chanel’s frequent price increases (sometimes multiple times a year), these bags continue to hold strong resale value. Vintage Chanel pieces in excellent condition can even fetch higher prices than newer models, thanks to superior craftsmanship and materials used in older designs.

Pros:
☑ High demand for classic styles
☑ Chanel frequently increases retail prices, boosting resale value
☑ Vintage pieces can be worth more than new ones

Cons:
ⓧ Retail prices are rising, making it harder for buyers to enter the market
ⓧ Some seasonal or trendy designs don’t hold value as well
ⓧ Quality concerns in recent years (compared to vintage Chanel)

3. Louis Vuitton: Consistent and Reliable

Resale Value: 50%-70% of retail price
Top Investment Pieces: Speedy, Neverfull, Pochette Metis

Louis Vuitton has a strong resale market, particularly for monogram canvas classics like the Neverfull and Speedy. These pieces are widely recognized, durable, and remain in high demand. While they don’t appreciate in value as dramatically as Hermès or Chanel, they do offer a reliable return, especially for sought-after limited editions.

Pros:
☑ More accessible price points compared to Chanel and Hermès
☑ Iconic monogram styles never go out of fashion
☑ Strong resale demand for classic pieces

Cons:
ⓧ Mass production means they’re not as exclusive
ⓧ Some styles have a slower resale turnover
ⓧ Seasonal or trendy bags don’t hold value as well

Final Verdict: Which Brand Wins?

If your goal is maximum resale value and long-term appreciation, Hermès is the clear winner. Birkins and Kellys are the holy grail of luxury resale, often fetching more than their retail price. If you want a bag with strong resale value and timeless appeal, Chanel is a fantastic investment, especially the Classic Flap. For those who prefer a reliable, high-demand brand with a lower entry price, Louis Vuitton is a solid choice, particularly for monogram classics like the Neverfull and Speedy.

Luxury Bags: A Smart Fashion Investment

Regardless of which brand you choose, luxury handbags remain one of the most stable fashion investments. Whether you’re looking for exclusivity, brand prestige, or a classic everyday piece, there’s a perfect investment bag for everyone.

Thinking of adding to your collection? Explore our curated selection of pre-loved Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès bags and invest in timeless luxury today! ✨

With love,
Luxury Helsinki