Ralph Lauren Handbags & Purses

For decades, Ralph Lauren has been a much-heralded master of tasteful style. Best known for his Polo brand, the quintessential American designer built his fashion empire on romantic fantasies of country club living and the rugged outdoor lifestyle of the Wild West.

A large part of his success can be attributed to accessories, and bags in particular. Long a leading U.S. producer of carryalls, a Ralph Lauren purse is among the most desired bags in the English-speaking world.

The signature Ralph Lauren handbag is the Ricky, a leather top-handled bag named after Mr. Lauren’s wife, which has been produced in various iterations and spin-offs, from tiny cross-body bags to huge, spacious Bainbridge and Shopper totes that can easily double as overnight travelers.

Although vintage RL pieces like the '80s Black Watch tartan plain handbag and mailbag-style fringed suede shoulder bags always draw interest, newer arrivals such as the Newburry and Tate satchel are equally appealing to auction watchers. No matter one's taste or approach to style, there is a Ralph Lauren bag to fit the bill.

Quick Facts

• The most recent variation in the Ricky line of bags is fashionable tech standout with an internal LED light and built-in USB smart phone charger
• In a 2014 Heritage Auction, a purple crocodile Ricky Bag sold to an online bidder for $7,000
• In 2011, a chocolate brown alligator skin Ralph Lauren clutch with sterling silver hardware sold in a Heritage Auction for just over $388