Delicate craftsmanship and materials make Loewe bags one of the best modern designer investments on the market. But within the DNA of every new bag style lies a rich legacy that's shaped the Spanish-born brand’s identity—and reputation—over time.
Founded in 1846 by a collective of artisans, the label originated in a humble workshop in Madrid's city center. In 1872, German leather specialist Enrique Loewe Roessberg joined the atelier and established the brand under his surname. The fashion house swiftly gained recognition for its expertly crafted leather goods and eventually became the official supplier to the Spanish Royal Crown in 1905. In 1965, Loewe introduced its first ready-to-wear collection, followed by legendary designer handbags like the Flamenco and the Amazona.
Fast forward to 2013, when Loewe’s selection of accessories soared under the creative direction of Irish designer Jonathan Anderson, who, shortly after his appointment, developed the famous Puzzle bag that became an overnight sensation and a coveted design amongst the fashion set. “Since its launch, we have sold over 12,000 units of the Loewe Puzzle in all its iterations and colorways,” notes Kay Barron, Fashion Director at Net-a-Porter. “And for the past five years, a Loewe style has consistently ranked amongst our top five best-selling bags category," she adds. Other trending bags from the label, including the new Squeeze and Paula's Ibiza Anagram Basket Bag, are also selling out repeatedly.
There are plenty of reasons why Loewe bags have such an enduring appeal, but perhaps the most notable is their balance between modernity and tradition. This might explain why stylish celebrities like Zendaya, Emily Ratajkowski, and Ayo Edebiri have added Loewe bags to their coveted accessory collections.
Whether you’re looking to invest in a Loewe bag for yourself or simply admire the brand’s assortment, we’ve curated an edit of Loewe's most iconic bags.
The Flamenco Bag
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“As a mainstay wardrobe staple, the Flamenco bag has always been a Loewe signature,” explains Barron. Born in the 1980s, this eye-catching style features a silhouette that closely resembles the billowing shape of a flamenco skirt (hence the name). “It was originally designed with knotted drawstring ties, but the newest release now incorporates chic chain detailing,” Baron notes. Its versatility allows it to be worn as a clutch, shoulder bag, or crossbody style.
The Puzzle Bag
“Since its debut in 2015, the Puzzle has remained an icon in the accessory world,” Barron tells Marie Claire. Known for its geometric folds, this bag has been reimagined in various forms that speak to Anderson’s artistic talent. “From the ‘Edge’ to the 'Fold,’ the Puzzle has taken on many shapes, sizes, and colorways [including a great work tote silhouette] over its ten-year run," she explains.
The Paula's Ibiza Bag
In 2017, Loewe introduced an eclectic capsule collection in partnership with a renowned boutique in Ibiza. Every year since, the Spanish fashion house has refreshed its assortment with a range of summery pieces, and among the buzziest items are the woven raffia bags. “Nothing says warm weather quite like a raffia tote, and Paula's Ibiza bags are certainly favorites among fashion enthusiasts,” says Barron.
The Squeeze Bag
“The Squeeze embraces multi-functionality in a fashion-first way,” Barron notes. This spacious tote, which was introduced during Loewe's Fall 2023 runway show, demonstrates captivating design elements like a ruched exterior, a unique donut chain strap, and a squishy handle. If you need further convincing that this bag is worth the investment, just ask Zendaya, who owns the medium version in a rich deep burgundy.
The Goya Bag
Making its first appearance in Loewe’s Fall 2021 collection, the Goya bag embodies minimalist elegance with its compact design and sleek closure. This style is also offered in a variety of statement-making alternatives. The Goya Puffer bag stitched with denim is a standout choice for those seeking something bolder.
The Amazona Bag
With a strong vintage charm, it is no surprise that the Amazona originated in 1975. It was initially designed for the modern working woman, featuring a durable handle, structured round edges, and an open interior. Today, this bag remains essential and perfect for the office and beyond.
The Paseo Bag
Jonathan Anderson’s Paseo bag pays homage to the Flamenco bag through its tubular handles and coiled knots. This modern masterpiece emerged as part of Loewe’s Spring 2023 collection and has quickly become a cherished crowd favorite, especially among those who prefer a trendy east-west silhouette.
The Hammock Bag
If there’s one thing to know about Loewe, it’s that the label champions functionality. Launched in 2016, the Hammock bag exemplifies just that with an adaptable design that allows for various shapes. Release the side panels for a hammock-like shape, or keep them collapsed for a more compressed look.
The Pebble Bag
The Pebble bag, introduced as part of Loewe’s Spring 2024 lineup, is a chic interpretation of the classic bucket silhouette. Its name comes from the gold pebble hardware fixed to the side, an adjustable component that lengthens the strap.
The Gate Bag
Known for its bold logo plastered along its jacquard strap, the Gate bag is otherwise fairly simple. This polished accessory, unveiled during Loewe’s Spring 2018 runway show, features a streamlined exterior, a decorative knot, and a side-latched metal pin. It's a perfect crossbody bag option.
Meet the Expert
Kay Barron is Net-a-Porter's fashion director. Following her graduation from Central Saint Martins, she has written for Vogue, the Independent, Financial Times, Telegraph, Observer, and Acne Paper, as well as consulting for international fashion brands. Barron was appointed Fashion News Editor of Grazia in 2008, Fashion Features Director of Harper’s Bazaar UK in 2012, and Fashion Features Director of Net-a-Porter in 2013. She has been Fashion Director of Net-a-Porter since 2019.
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