The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and maintain it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many wardrobes.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal to make bags for war. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were able to explore their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather, chains, and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to high demand, it may take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great option for those who cannot be without the latest designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles during the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, purses are more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer handbags women's bags are crafted with quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. For designer Handbags chanel instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Additionally other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and fun that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

There are many other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer Handbags chanel bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some staples that have remained coveted for a long time.

According to a resale statistics report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a masterpiece" by the cheap designer bags the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.