Ultimate Bag Guide: Dior Saddle Bag

The iconic Dior Saddle Bag debuted on the runway in John Galliano’s Spring/Summer 2000 collection and quite frankly, the rest is history. The Christian Dior bag has adorned the shoulders of countless celebrities including Beyonce, Rosie Huntington-Whitely, and Bella Hadid. Before the year was out, Dior’s accessories sales had increased by more than 60%.

The popularity of the Dior Saddle Bag can be linked back to 2016 when Maria Grazia Chiuri took the creative helm of the House of Dior. She reinvented the aesthetic of the house while paying homage to her predecessors. Arguably, no handbag demonstrates this transition more than the Saddle Bag.

Dior Saddle Bag sizes

When comparing vintage Saddle bags against new ones, an obvious difference is that the reinvented bags are slightly larger than their predecessors to accommodate more belongings such as larger phones.

The Dior Saddle range is available in two sizes, the Medium Saddle Bag (as listed below) and the Mini Saddle Bag, a super cute but striking addition to all street-styled wardrobes.

As you can see, there’s a minimal difference in the structure and size of the Saddle range, but the impact is obvious for all fashion-conscious individuals who want to get the perfect fit.

Straps

Saddle straps are detachable so you can switch from a shoulder bag to a cross-body bag seamlessly. While they are an added cost to the Dior Saddle Bag, they ultimately elevate your look as they add a chic twist to the classic design from 1999.

Price

Demand for Dior Saddle Bags has skyrocketed in recent years as a result of every ‘it girl’ having one on her arm. The reissuing of the Saddle design in recent years has triggered the resale value to surge 10 times over. After their initial launch, they could be found on resale markets for under £400, depending on their conditions. This is unheard of now.

After their initial launch (and subsequent dip) they could be found on resale markets for under £400, depending on their conditions. This is unheard of now! 

Today’s prices for new Dior Saddle bags range from £1,950 to over £4,000:

Medium size:

• Grey Dior Oblique Embroidery = £2,700

• Black Grained Calfskin = £2,450

• Multicolour Calfskin Dior in Lights Motif with Pearl & Sequin Embroidery = £4,100

• Brown Hand Embossed Calfskin with Overlays = £3,900

• Camel Coloured Shearling = £3,000

Mini size:

• Dior Oblique = £1,950

Materials and Colours

The options really are endless! Choose from leather, oblique canvas, embroidered variations, and velvet. Choosing a material that represents you is the ultimate way to personalise your dream accessory.

Originally, the Dior Oblique Canvas and Calfskin Leather designs led the way for the original Saddle designs, but once they secured their position as a cult classic in 2018, they expanded into every material possible.

Hardware

Traditionally, Dior has centred their Saddle Bag designs around gold hardware. The signature ‘D’ stirrup closure and ‘CD’ strap signatures are iconic parts of the overall handbag that signify the House of Dior beautifully.

In more recent years, the hardware of Saddle Bag designs has expanded to incorporate Black Ultramatte and Crystal Encrusted initials, ideal for the rise in luxe street wear.

Vintage Designs

Typically, when you think of vintage Dior Saddle bags, you picture the classic oblique canvas. However, if you search through the archives, you’ll find clashing textures adorned with rhinestones.

If you really dig deep into the archives of the House of Dior, you’ll find models of this iconic kidney-shaped bag adorned with the hugely popular Rasta print, delicate pink floral designs, and even sports jerseys!

Celebrity Fans

Originally, the bag adorned the arms of 00s socialites such as Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Sarah Jessica Parker, Mischa Barton, and Jessica Simpson, as well as fictional ‘it girl’ fashion icon Carrie Bradshaw. More recently, it frequents the wardrobe of most influencers and the likes of Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lawrence, and Olivia Palermo. 

Get your hands on one of the most coveted luxury handbags and shop our Dior Saddle bags now.