Royal style: 9 handbag brands loved by royals around the world
You will never catch a royal chasing the latest “it” bag. If anything, it is these aristocrats who transform an unassuming handbag into the season’s most coveted accessory. The timeless elegance of our favourite royal women is no accident—it is meticulously curated. As inadvertent fashion icons and representatives of their nations, even their most effortless ensembles adhere to a carefully considered set of unspoken rules.
Their handbags must strike a delicate balance between tradition and modernity—never ostentatious, never about conspicuous branding. Flashy logos and excessive embellishments are avoided at all costs. Instead, royals gravitate towards heritage brands that embody refinement and craftsmanship, often championing homegrown designers. Others lend their influence to emerging labels with a strong sense of purpose. In constitutional monarchies, these sartorial choices hold cultural significance, supporting national industries while reflecting a quiet, diplomatic elegance.
Here, we take a closer look at the handbag brands that have earned their place in the arms of the world’s most stylish royals.
Launer London
No discussion of royal handbags is complete without Launer London. The late Queen Elizabeth II famously carried her structured Launer bags for decades, favouring the “Traviata” and “Royale” models. Known for their sleek, understated design and gold-plated hardware, Launer bags became synonymous with British royal fashion. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the brand also boasts a Royal Warrant, a testament to its enduring craftsmanship.
See more: In pictures: Queen Elizabeth’s most iconic style moments
Hermès
From Princess Grace of Monaco to modern-day royal style icons, Hermès remains a perennial favourite. The Kelly was originally called Sac à dépêches till the actress-turned-royal made it a household name by using it to shield her pregnant belly. Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana of Thailand, known for her avant-garde fashion sensibilities, has also been spotted with the iconic Hermès Birkin, a bag everyone knows signals status and sophistication.
Other royals who love toting Hermès include Bhutan’s Queen Jetsun Pema and Thailand’s Princess Ubolratana.
Also read: The secret history of the Hermès Kelly
Chanel
You know a brand has earned the royal seal of approval when it renames a handbag after the royal who made it iconic. The late Princess Diana was often seen carrying Chanel—whether it was the elegant flap bag reimagined by Karl Lagerfeld and later named the Chanel Diana bag in her honour, or the effortlessly chic camera totes that suited her dynamic lifestyle.
Princess Mary of Denmark is another devotee of the house, frequently reaching for the classic quilted 2.55 handbag. Whether paired with a formal gown or impeccably tailored daywear, Chanel’s understated femininity and timeless versatility make it a natural choice for modern royalty.
Don't miss: The true story of Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel: the childhood that she never wanted you to know
Dior
The Lady Dior, which was also named after Princess Diana, remains a beloved staple in royal wardrobes. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, has been seen carrying this timeless piece, with its signature cannage stitching and elegant structure. The bag’s refined yet contemporary appeal makes it a perfect fit for modern royal style.
See more: Reinventing the iconic Lady Dior bag
Aspinal of London
Aspinal of London has made its mark with younger British royals, particularly Catherine, Princess of Wales, who has often been spotted with the brand’s Mayfair bag. The brand's chic and structured design exudes a vintage charm with a modern edge.
Also read: Happy birthday, Kate Middleton: A royal guide to the handbags favoured by the Princess of Wales
Strathberry
Another contemporary favourite, Strathberry’s sleek, bar-closure bags have won over the Duchess of Sussex, who famously carried the brand’s midi tote on her first official engagement with Prince Harry. “It was a fantastic surprise to see that Meghan selected one of our core Strathberry styles to carry on her first royal engagement,” stated Strathberry co-founder Leeanne Hundleby on the brand’s website.
When Markle wore the bottle-green East/West crossbody bag, it sold out in minutes. The brand’s clean lines and understated luxury have made it a fast favourite in royal circles.
Don't miss: Meghan Markle’s 5 New Age wardrobe essentials & where you can find them
Longchamp
A favourite among younger royals, Longchamp’s Le Pliage has made its way into the wardrobes of Princess Eugenie, Japan’s Princess Mako and even Princess Anne. Lightweight, practical, and chic, the iconic foldable tote is perfect for both royal tours and casual city strolls—proof that even royals appreciate smart, versatile design.
Also read: In the Long Run: In conversation with Longchamp chairman and CEO Jean Cassegrain
Smythson
For royals who favour understated luxury, Smythson handbags offer a perfect blend of practicality and elegance. Catherine, Princess of Wales, is known to favour the brand’s refined totes, often seen carrying the Panama East-West tote, a functional yet chic choice for her public engagements.
See more: Smythson launches first Hong Kong boutique
Louis Vuitton
While some might think Louis Vuitton’s monogram canvas would clash with royal subtlety, it’s quite the opposite. Queen Rania of Jordan carries the Louis Vuitton Capucines with effortless poise—a more discreet, logo-free option that speaks to refined luxury. In Asia, Queen Jetsun Pema has also been spotted with an occasional LV arm candy.
The Capucines, with its structured silhouette and impeccable craftsmanship, is a natural fit for one of the world’s most elegant royals.
NOW READ
IN PHOTOS: 20 of the most stylish royals to follow on Instagram
7 interesting rules that British royals must follow: wearing hats, no PDA and more