Hermès Kelly bag (Photo via Hermès website)
Cover One of the staples for a crazy rich Asian is this Hermès Kelly bag (Photo: Hermès website)
Hermès Kelly bag (Photo via Hermès website)

Get a glimpse of real-life Crazy Rich Asians' wardrobe essentials, from the iconic Hermès Kelly bag to Chanel's shopping bags

When Kevin Kwan’s book Crazy Rich Asians was adapted for the big screen, it took the world by storm. Its original budget was $30 million, but it earned an impressive $239 million. This box-office hit immersed viewers in the dramatic, luxurious lives of jet-setting Asians. 

These characters are far not just figments of Kwan’s imagination. He may have taken loose inspiration from people he knows, but Asia is well-known for those who flaunt their wealth in style. Below is a list of some bags you might find in a crazy rich Asian’s wardrobe—at least until next season’s drops. 

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1. Louis Vuitton: Speedy Bandoulière 20 bag

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Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 20 bag
Above Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 20 bag
Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 20 bag

Inspired by the Maison’s iconic travel bag, the Speedy Bandoulière 20 has a distinctive shape that makes it stand out. Its natural cowhide leather is stamped with the brand’s emblem. Gold hardware that gleams in the light complements the bag. With its detachable two-colour strap, the bag can be worn across the body or the shoulder, depending on its user’s needs. 

2. Joseph Duclos: Diane L30 Heritage Leather bag

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Joseph Duclos Diane L30 Heritage Leather bag
Above Joseph Duclos Diane L30 Heritage Leather bag
Joseph Duclos Diane L30 Heritage Leather bag

What immediately stands out about the Diane L30 is the iconic clasp that evokes Artemis, the goddess of the hunt. This bag celebrates femininity that is powerful yet effortless. This bag can be worn on the arm or over the shoulder. This versatility imbues the owner with an air of nobility, elevating any outfit they wear. Over time, the bag’s natural leather develops a patina that is a testament to its craftsmanship. 

3. Bulgari: Serpenti Forever medium leather top-handle bag

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BVLGARI Serpenti Forever medium leather top-handle bag
Above Bulgari Serpenti Forever medium leather top-handle bag
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BVLGARI Serpenti Forever medium leather top-handle bag
Above Bulgari Serpenti Forever medium leather top-handle bag
BVLGARI Serpenti Forever medium leather top-handle bag
BVLGARI Serpenti Forever medium leather top-handle bag

The Serpenti Forever catches the eye with its iconic closure adorned with a serpent head. The attention to detail is evident in the enamelled scales, which add whimsy and charm to the bag. With its boxy shape and detachable strap, this bag is infinitely customizable for a daytime brunch or a night out on the town. 

4. The Row: Alexia bag

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The Row Alexia bag
Above The Row Alexia bag
The Row Alexia bag

The Alexia bag displays the understated craftsmanship that The Row is known for. The deconstructed tote makes for another easy errand bag, as the flat handles make the bag easy to carry around. Meanwhile, its architectural exterior adds volume and character to any outfit. 

5. Hermès: Kelly bag

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Hermès Kelly bag
Above Hermès Kelly bag
Tatler Asia
Hermès Kelly bag
Above Hermès Kelly bag
Hermès Kelly bag
Hermès Kelly bag

Undoubtedly one of the most iconic bags of all time, the Kelly is an undeniable staple in any crazy rich Asian’s wardrobe. Sitting at the intersection of modernism and functionality, the Kelly bag adds a hint of masculine edge to any outfit. Every detail of the bag is meticulously crafted in homage to the brand’s long, refined history. 

More from Tatler: The best designer micro bags for maximum impact
 

6. Gucci: GG Marmont small shoulder bag

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Gucci GG Marmont small shoulder bag
Above Gucci GG Marmont small shoulder bag
Gucci GG Marmont small shoulder bag

The GG Marmont bag adds layers of bright freshness to Gucci’s craftsmanship. This bag adds a pop of colour to any outfit, adding an air of youthfulness without losing sophistication. The pale green GG Marmont showcases the matelassé leather in a unique chevron pattern, highlighting the quality of the materials used in the bag. 

7. Jacquemus: Le grand Bambino bag

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Jacquemus Le grand Bambino bag
Above Jacquemus Le grand Bambino bag
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Jacquemus Le grand Bambino bag
Above Jacquemus Le grand Bambino bag
Jacquemus Le grand Bambino bag
Jacquemus Le grand Bambino bag

Le Grand Bambino adds a sleek touch of brightness to any outfit. Its luxurious details include smooth leather and an engraved lobster clip, which ensures an effortless transition from hand-held to a crossbody bag. This statement piece can dress up any outfit, making it a timeless addition to any crazy rich Asian’s wardrobe. 

8. Fendi: Fendigraphy Small bag

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Fendi Fendigraphy Small bag
Above Fendi Fendigraphy Small bag
Fendi Fendigraphy Small bag

This petite hobo bag adopts a modern silhouette while staying true to Fendi’s iconic aesthetics. Made of jacquard fabric that displays the brand’s motif, this eye-catching pattern adds opulence to even the most casual outfits. It also features an adjustable, detachable handle that can easily convert the bag from a shoulder bag to a cross-body bag. 

9. Chanel: Denim & gold metal shopping bag

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Chanel Denim & Gold Metal shopping bag
Above Chanel Denim & Gold Metal shopping bag
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Chanel Mixed Fibres, Calfskin & Gold-Tone Metal shopping bag
Above Chanel Mixed Fibres, Calfskin & Gold-Tone Metal shopping bag
Chanel Denim & Gold Metal shopping bag
Chanel Mixed Fibres, Calfskin & Gold-Tone Metal shopping bag

For the crazy rich Asians seeking a practical bag, Chanel has a wide range to choose from. This denim and gold metal shopping bag is perfect for everyday use, blending casual charm with timeless luxury. Its spacious interior fits all the essentials, while the sturdy handles make the bag easy to tote around. Whether running errands or attending a casual outing, this bag adds a touch of refinement to daily life.

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Celine Dabao
Associate Editor for Tatler Homes, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia
Celine Dabao

About 

Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.  


Work 

Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.  

For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.