Owning one of the best Loewe bags is the ultimate luxury symbol. It marks you as a fashion insider – as will the way you pronounce the brand’s name (it’s low-ay-vay, not low-e or low, FYI).
Loewe was founded in 1846 in Madrid by a group of leather workers and originally was patronised by the Spanish royal family and old Hollywood stars like Ava Gardner, Marlene Dietrich and Sophia Loren. Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld have both designed for the label, but it was in 2013 when Northern Irish designer Jonathan Anderson took the role of creative director that Loewe catapulted into a global super brand.
While Loewe's ready-to-wear has a bold, edgy aesthetic, Loewe bags have remained the Spanish brand's hottest buys and are showing no sign of stopping – especially when they come Jennifer Lawrence and Naomi Campbell-approved.
At fashion month, we spotted more influencers and fashion editors than ever with a Loewe bag. Unlike bags with glitzy charms and bold patterns, Loewe whispers its fashion credentials… despite being partial to a statement logo.
Ahead, shop our definitive guide to the best Loewe bags.
1. The basket bag
The Loewe basket bag (which launched in 2017) is our carry-all of choice for spring/summer – and every far-flung holiday we take. It can definitely be credited with kicking off the beach bag trend, and many labels (designer or otherwise) have tried to replicate its success since. The most recent and sought-after silhouette comes in lime green raffia in collaboration with Paula's Ibiza.
2. The Puzzle bag
The Loewe Puzzle bag became the first verified ‘It’ bag under Anderson’s directorship; in 2015 the slouchy patchwork style made its debut on the brand's menswear catwalk in Paris. Each bag uses nine pieces of leather and takes an estimated nine hours to make, hence its price tag.
It has since been released in a variety of shapes, though the classic top-handle shoulder bag – or the small Puzzle, as it's known – continues to be a firm favourite (case in point with Naomi Campbell, seen above).
3. The Flamenco Bag
Before Anderson’s tenure, the Flamenco bag was already a modern icon. Closed with a drawstring (and a little concealed magnet), it’s a versatile design that was originally created in the 1970s – then relaunched in 2010 under former creative director Stuart Vevers. Now, it comes in an array of sizes that work for cocktail hour or commuting – though you may struggle to fit a laptop inside.
4. The Amazona Bag
The Amazona is also a retro style that seems to be having a renaissance. Its square, top handle shape looks as good now as it did in 1975, when it originally made its debut as a work bag. There are an array of hard-working shapes and sizes to suit your needs, like the jacquard 44 size which would be perfect as a weekend bag.
5. The Gate Bag
The Gate was launched in 2018 and is the perfect style to wear as a crossbody bag. Instead of a buckle, there's a hinge (almost like a gate!) to keep the bag closed. The classic saddle shape makes it a heritage style that suits so many outfits, and the logo strap lends an ‘in-the-know’ finish. It's petite in size, but if you want something even smaller still then look to the pocket bag (which will just about hold your phone… and maybe a lippy).
6. The Paseo Bag
2023 saw the Paseo handbag as Loewe’s latest launch, and we were obsessed from the get-go. Referencing a 1990s style from the house, it’s lightweight and incredibly soft and spacious. The longer silhouette is unusual when most totes follow a tall blueprint, but that originality is why we love it – and Loewe. If you're looking for an ideal for every day bag, this is it.
7. The Hammock Bag
Not seen as often, though perhaps the most versatile, is the Hammock – which has flexible sides that you can expand to turn it from a shoulder bag to a cross-body style or tote. Your choice! The mini iteration is slightly less versatile, nor as roomy, but it makes for a slightly more affordable alternative.
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For more from GLAMOUR UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd. Check out other must-have designer bags, like the best Bottega Veneta bags and affordable designer bags while you're here.
