Designer Items So Iconic, They Never Have To Change

Some designers have created pieces that actually help us define the word “classic.” They have created pieces that transcend generations and, though the times may change, the design of the item remains original. We put our heads together and compiled the ultimate list of immortal design. These items are now so iconic, they never have to change. And we hope they never do.

1. Louis Vuitton Speedy. Founded in Paris in 1854, Louis Vuitton quickly became famous for it’s LV monogram. First used for light-weight and air-tight trunks, the monogram was later lent to luggage and handbags and in the 1930′s, the Speedy was introduced.

Audrey Hepburn, Louis Vuitton Speedy

Audrey Hepburn, Louis Vuitton Speedy

First created in the 1930's, The Louis Vuitton Speedy, available in major department stores

2. Ray Ban was inspired by a long and bright balloon ride taken by Lieutenant John MacCready. When he concluded the sun had damaged his eyes, he contacted Bausch & Lomb and asked they make sunglasses that were both protective and attractive. They got on it and in 1937, Ray Ban was founded. The now-iconic wayfarer was introduced in 1952. The same original model remains super chic, fun and always relevant.

Fergie Leaves London Hotel (USA and Oz Only) in ray bans, Non Exclusive by Flynet Pictures © 2008

Bob Dylan in Ray Ban Wayfarer

Audrey Hepburn in Ray Ban Wayfarer

3. Burberry, founded in 1856, has two iconic items: The Trench and the Nova Check Scarf. Both pure love. The Buberry trench was created in 1914 to be used by officers of war. It later became popular for civilians and in the 1920s the signature burberry check was added as the lining. This is the model used to this very day. The Burberry Nova Check Scarf 1960′s

Burberry Trench

Burberry Trench, WWI

Burberry Nova Check Scarf

4. Sperry Top Sider, 1935. Inspired by the agile and stable abilities of a pup on a boat, the Sperry boat shoe was first introduced in 1935. They have since become synonymous with chic nautically inspired footwear.

Sperry Boat Shoes, image courtesy of Sean Patrick Cook, flickr

5. Jack Rogers Navajo rose to fame in the 60s and quickly became the favorite footwear in the Palm Beach area. The original model is still the rage to this very day. They can stand their ground whether your ensemble for that day is classic, relaxed, prep, trendy or bohemian. And if you can make a shoe worn by Jackie O. relevant, chic and current to this very day– you deserve iconic status in our book.

Hamptons Navajo, Jack Rogers, $98

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis wearing the Hamptons Navajo

6. Gabrielle Chanel opened her first store in 1909 and in 1955 she introduced the now iconic Chanel Quilted Leather Handbag. In fact, the only reason the line is called “2.55″ is because it was first introduced in February of 1955–02/55.

Gabrielle Coco Chanel with her 2.55

Lauren Conrad carrying the Chanel Quilted 2.55

7. Hermes Kelly Bag; 1937. Originally named the leather Sac à dépêches, the bag was renamed The Kelly Bag after Grace Kelly appeared on the cover of Life with the bag. Hermes Birkin Bag; 1984. Based on an 1892 design, Hermes created the Birkin bag in 1984 after a chance encounter with Jane Birkin inspired the concept. With no logos, no department store availability, and a a peak waitlist of 6 years, the Birkin bag has become one of the most coveted bags in history.

White Birkin Bag

Herms 40cm Chocolate Togo Leather Birkin Bag

Grace Kelly, Hermes Kelly Bag

8. Ralph Lauren Polo: Just as the word band-aid is now used when referring to any sticky bandage despite being nothing more than a brand within Johnson & Johnson, the name Polo is now commonly used when referring to any collared, short-sleeved, three-button shirt. This was a difficult one to choose as we were very torn between the Ralph Lauren Polo and the classic Lacoste Tennis Shirt. The Lacoste tennis shirt was first introduced to the U.S. in 1952, however, since many people use the name “Polo” when referring to the general style, we had to go that route. But just know, it was a close call and both deserve a place in the iconic line-up. Your thoughts?

Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Polo Shirt, Large Logo

Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Polo Shirt, Small Logo

BONUS: Though not “iconic” yet, we have a prediction for the next designer must-have that will transcend generations and it’s none other than the Tory Burch Reva Flat. Founded in just 2004, Tory Burch has created a brand that may just be one of the fastest growing of all time. The Tory Burch medallion has become a widely recognized logo. Timed perfectly with the return of flats, the Tory Burch Reva Ballet Flat, featuring the medallion logo, is now a must-have for any wardrobe.

Tory Burch Reva Flats in Black

Tory Burch Mistyrose Snake Print Reva Ballerina Flats

Tory Burch Reva Flats in Gold