The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we recognize as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles which are still seen in many outfits.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to create bags required to carry war supplies. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable because women were able to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s with chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer handbags london bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the high demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who can't live without the latest designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most iconic designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Designer Handbags And Purses Chloe's Marcie bag with an eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from this logo style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the style of the aughts bags. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which attracts young fashionistas.

There are a variety of designer bags brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of modern and classic styles. The brand provides various colors and sizes. The company has also launched various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with reviewers and admirers.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the iconic intercciato from the brand with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer handbags for ladies brand, has also seen its products on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

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 could be your next designer bag. It's a slim feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for all.