Inside Alizey and Lailli Mirza’s French handbag picks

The Mirza sisters have entered the chat, and they’re talking handbags. We asked Alizey and Lailli Mirza from Dubai Bling to reveal their top French bag picks, from iconic investments to everyday style heroes. Read on for their favourites.

Alizey’s picks:

Hermès Kelly 25 

The Kelly is one of the most historically significant bags in fashion. It’s named after Grace Kelly, someone whose style I really admire. 

Chanel Classic Double Flap 

Designed by Coco Chanel in 1955, it’s arguably the most recognisable handbag silhouette in the world. I love the quilted leather, the chain strap and the CC turnlock. It’s as much a piece of fashion history as it is an accessory and super easy to style.

Lady Dior 

Classic, elegant and feminine, this is one of my all-time favourite bags. 

Dior Saddle Bag 

I come from a family of equestrians, so for me personally, that’s what has always drawn me to the classic saddle bag. It’s beautiful and versatile and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

“For me, it comes back to craftsmanship and consistency of vision. Houses like Chanel, Dior and Hermès have held onto a very clear identity for decades — you can spot a piece from any of them instantly, and that’s not an accident, it’s discipline. There’s also a level of savoir-faire that’s genuinely hard to replicate — the hand-stitching on a Kelly, the tailoring in a Bar jacket. I think that’s why these maisons keep their place: trends move quickly, but a well-made piece with a strong point of view doesn’t really age.” – Alizey Mirza

Lailli Mirza’s picks: 

Hermès JPG Shoulder Birkin 

The Jean Paul Gaultier Shoulder Birkin is one of the most unique Hermès designs ever created. I love that it takes such an iconic silhouette and gives it an entirely different attitude. It’s effortlessly chic, incredibly rare and a true collector’s piece. I gravitate towards bags that tell a story, and this one represents the meeting of two legendary names in fashion history. 

Chanel Collection Privée Picture Frame Flap Bag (2014) 

One of the rarest pieces in my collection, this Chanel Collection Privée Picture Frame Flap Bag perfectly captures the house’s playful creativity. By framing the iconic Classic Flap within a glossy black plexiglass picture frame, Chanel transformed one of its most recognisable designs into a true wearable work of art. It’s the kind of bag that instantly starts conversations and represents the bold, collectible side of Chanel that I love most. 

Chanel Perspex Gas Canister Bag 

One of Chanel’s most imaginative novelty designs, the Dubai by Night Plexiglass Gas Can Bag is a true collector’s piece. I love it because it’s unexpected, instantly recognisable, and represents the era when Karl Lagerfeld transformed accessories into wearable art. It’s one of the most unique and conversation-worthy pieces in my collection. 

Dior Pony Hair Saddle Bag 

Crafted in natural pony hair, it has a unique texture that makes every piece one of a kind. It’s a special part of my collection because it represents a time when fashion was fearless, theatrical and unapologetically creative—exactly the kind of vintage craftsmanship and design I love to collect. 

Christian Dior Lady Dior 

The Lady Dior is the definition of timeless elegance. I admire the craftsmanship, the architectural structure and the heritage behind the design. It’s one of those rare bags that feels just as appropriate at a formal event as it does at an intimate dinner. 

“French luxury has remained relevant because it has never relied solely on trends. The great French maisons have built their reputations on exceptional craftsmanship, heritage and a clear design language that evolves without losing its identity. In today’s world, where trends can disappear almost overnight, that’s what makes these houses so valuable. A beautifully made Chanel, Dior or Saint Laurent bag doesn’t feel tied to one particular season—it becomes part of your personal story. For me, luxury isn’t about collecting labels. It’s about investing in pieces that make you feel something every time you wear them and that you’ll still love decades from now. The best luxury pieces aren’t just accessories—they become heirlooms, carrying memories, milestones and moments through different chapters of your life.”- Lailli Mirza