2000s fashion was all about excess, status, and the golden age of celebrity culture. Paparazzi shots of Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, and the Olsen twins weren’t complete without their handbags. From the tiniest Y2K shoulder bags to oversized totes you could live out of, these were the ultimate accessories of the decade. Here’s a curated list of the most iconic bags that defined the era — and where you might still spot them today.
1.
Fendi Baguette
The original “it-bag,” made famous by Sex and the City. Tiny, chic, and endlessly versatile, it was Carrie Bradshaw’s ultimate companion — and every fashion girl wanted one. To this day, it’s the blueprint for the Y2K mini bag revival. Photo by FENDI website. Click here to open link.
2.
Dior Saddle Bag
John Galliano’s masterpiece and a symbol of 2000s extravagance. The unique, curved shape and bold patterns made it instantly recognizable. I always think of Beyoncé, Paris Hilton, and early 2000s paparazzi snaps when I see it. Photo by Dior official website. Click here to open link.
3.
Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami Monogram Pochette
A collaboration that defined Y2K aesthetics — the classic LV logo reimagined in bright, playful colors. It’s tiny, flashy, and pure nostalgia. The ultimate party-girl bag of the decade. Photo by Love Is Ok website. Click to open link
4.
Balenciaga City Bag
Slouchy, edgy, and loved by the Olsen twins, Kate Moss, and every model-off-duty. The oversized hardware gave it a rebellious energy. To me, it’s the bag that screams “2000s street style.” Photo by Balenciaga website. Click here to open link.
5.
Chloé Paddington Bag
Chunky padlock and all, this was one of the most sought-after bags of the mid-2000s. It had a boho-chic vibe that felt effortless but still glamorous — Sienna Miller vibes all the way. Photo By Another Life NY. Click to open link
6.
Marc Jacobs Stam Bag
The oversized quilted leather and chain strap made this a paparazzi favorite. I always picture it hanging off the arms of celebs in oversized sunglasses, perfectly slouchy but still elegant. Photo by Farfetch Website. Click to open link.
7.
Gucci Horsebit Shoulder Bag
Gucci in the Tom Ford era was sexy and bold, and this bag was at the center of it all. The signature horsebit detail made it instantly recognizable — a true 2000s status symbol. Photo by Gucci Website. Click here to open.
8.
Mulberry Bayswater (Night Sky Heavy Grain)
The ultimate “cool British girl” bag. It wasn’t as flashy as some of its Italian counterparts, but Kate Moss and Alexa Chung gave it that effortless model-off-duty credibility. Photo by Mulberry Website. Click here to open.
9.
Louis Vuitton Neverfull (Damier Ebene GM)
Introduced in 2007, it quickly became the oversized tote. Chic but practical, it was the perfect airport or shopping companion. To this day, it’s still one of LV’s best sellers. Photo by Luxe It Forward website. Click here to open.
10.
Chanel Cambon Ligne Tote
Oversized quilting, bold CC logos, and a touch of playfulness made this feel like the “fun younger sister” of the Chanel Flap. Totally Paris Hilton era — and a little bit kitschy, which makes it so 2000s. Photo by Collector Square Website. Click to open.
BONUS
Dior Rasta Bag
This colorful, playful collection by John Galliano was very specific to the 2000s. It didn’t have the same lasting power as the Saddle, but it captures the bold, anything-goes spirit of the decade. Photo by Collector Square Website. Click to open.
That concludes this list! Which one was your all time fave? Which other would you add? Let me know!