Prada has long been synonymous with understated luxury, innovative craftsmanship, and forward-thinking design. Founded in 1913 by Mario Prada as a leather goods shop in Milan, the brand initially catered to European aristocracy with its impeccably crafted trunks and handbags. However, it was Miuccia Prada, Mario’s granddaughter, who redefined the house’s identity when she took over in 1978.
Her vision transformed Prada into a global powerhouse, blending minimalist aesthetics with avant-garde creativity, and introducing materials like Pocono nylon – a fabric originally used for military tents – that would later become an iconic hallmark of the brand.
Today, Prada is co-helmed by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, a partnership that seamlessly merges heritage with contemporary innovation. Under their leadership, the brand continues to push boundaries while staying true to its DNA of refined elegance and modernity.
Prada’s handbags, in particular, have evolved over the decades, balancing functionality with high fashion. From the sophisticated Galleria tote of the 2000s to the versatile Aimée bag that launched last year, each design is a testament to the house’s ability to anticipate and redefine luxury trends.
Throughout its history, Prada bags have remained timeless investments, transcending seasonal trends to become enduring style staples. As Prada continues to reinvent classic silhouettes with modern sensibilities, these are the must-have Prada bags that deserve a place in every wardrobe.
Aimée
The Prada Aimée bag, launched in the Fall/Winter 2024 collection, is a fresh yet timeless take on ’90s minimalism. Its unstructured, slouchy silhouette, crafted from Re-Nylon, calfskin, or suede, exudes effortless sophistication.
Designed for versatility, it features a top zipper, adjustable shoulder strap with belt buckle detailing, and Prada’s signature enamel metal triangle logo. With its understated elegance and relaxed shape, the Aimée bag proves that minimalist design never goes out of style.
Shop the Aimée here.
Arqué
The Prada Arqué is a timeless hobo bag, inspired by a 2000s design and reintroduced in 2023 with a modern twist. Its distinctive crescent shape, crafted from smooth calfskin leather, features an enamel Prada logo, gold-tone hardware, and versatile detachable straps. This compact yet functional design has garnered attention from fashion icons such as Emma Watson, Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski, and more.
Shop the Arqué here.
Cleo
A modern icon since its debut in Prada’s 2020 collection, the Cleo bag reinterprets ’90s elegance with a contemporary twist. Crafted from spazzolato calfskin leather, its sleek, curved silhouette comes in two versions – one with a flap for added security and one without, featuring a magnetic snap closure. With its refined structure, satin-lined interior, and timeless versatility, the Cleo remains a must-have for any wardrobe.
Shop the Cleo bag here.
Galleria
A true icon of the Prada universe, the Galleria bag has defined timeless luxury since its debut in 2007. Named after Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – the historic Milanese shopping arcade where Mario Prada opened his first boutique – the bag blends heritage with modern functionality.
Inspired by 1940s medicine bags, its structured silhouette, curved top handles, and durable Saffiano leather make it a polished yet practical everyday essential for tastemakers and professionals alike.
Shop the Galleria here.
Re-Edition
A staple of early 2000s fashion, Prada’s nylon bags made a triumphant return with the Re-Edition 2000 and 2005. First introduced by Miuccia Prada in 2000, these compact, minimalist handbags quickly became celebrity favourites before being discontinued in 2005.
With the resurgence of Y2K trends, Prada reissued them using sustainable Re-Nylon, crafted from recycled ocean plastics. The Re-Edition 2000 offers a sleek, single-strap design, while the Re-Edition 2005 adds a chain strap, crossbody option, and detachable pouch, making both timeless, versatile must-haves.
Shop the Re-Edition here.
Discover more must-have timeless bags to add to your wardrobe here.