The Alma, Louis Vuitton, from $1,550

Many would have expected that the ‘speedy’, and not the ‘alma’ would be regarded as an icon. Well, not according to me, Bagaholicboy. Basically a half-moon shaped bag with a pair of handles sticking out, the ‘alma’ was first launched way back in the 30s by Gaston Vuitton. A hand-held classic framed with a double zipper closure, it now comes in a wide variety of finishes, including the ever-popular ‘monogram canvas’, ‘damier ebene canvas’, ‘monogram vernis’ (a firm favourite), ‘epi’ and the luxurious ‘nomade’. Popular with working career women and ladies of leisure alike, it's an icon that will be around for another 100 years more.

The Amazona, Loewe, $2500  

Perhaps one of Spain's greatest exports, the Loewe Amazona is at first glance chunky and boxy. Stare at it long enough, however, and you'll start seeing why women all over the world have fallen hard for it. Celebrities like Victoria Beckham use it constantly, updated from season to season in luxurious materials from calf leather to exotic crocodile. Available in a wide variety of sizes, the Amazona is one classic beauty, all full-bodied and hot-blooded like the passionate Spanish.

The Classic Flap, Chanel, from $4000 

One of the most recognisable icons of all time, it is coveted by ladies both young and old. In the 80s, Karl Lagerfeld came along, tweaked around with the 2.55 and created what is now known as the ‘classic flap’, distinguished by its interlocking double C clasp and the chain link intertwined with leather. So huge is the demand for this icon that it is one of those rare few that never loses its value; in fact, the older it gets, the higher the resale value. As with other icons, the ‘classic flap’ has been reinterpreted in many different materials, but stick to those in leather. Without a doubt, the belle of the ball.

The City, Balenciaga, from $2300

Spotted on arms of celebrities such as Kate Moss and the Olsen twins, the ‘Balenciaga city’ is in two words, 'rocker-fabulous'. Not as graceful or as elegant as the other icons in this list, it is one built for urban living, all rough and tough when view at a distance, but exceedingly gorgeous when viewed up close. Slight variations can be seen in the leathers used, and it is up to the customer which she prefers. Soft-buttery leather body replete with braided handles and those trademark hanging tassels, honestly as close to bliss as one can get.

The Coffer, Miu Miu, $2690

There is nothing more distinct than the Miu Miu ‘coffer’, a long-standing classic from the Italian house. A firm favourite of Singaporean ladies aged 18 to 58, it constantly gets updated every season in colours as diverse as the sea is deep. Hallmarks of a ‘coffer’? Soft, plushy leather, coupled with gorgeous hardware in either silver or gold, it's an instant sellout. Stocks are constantly replenished and the waiting list is long. Deceptively slim, it is very roomy and deep on the inside, with the addition of two front pockets that are useful for keys and other personal items. So popular is the ‘coffer’ that it has spawned two smaller variations, but there's nothing like the original.