The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take care of it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the early 1900s, handbags became fashionable and also a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were needed to carry war supplies. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for designer handbags Used young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now able to play around with their personal style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't live without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways over the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer handbags brands bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

There are numerous designer names who create a mark with their beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. designer handbags popular bags made by the brand are modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorites. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other Designer handbags used bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags based on the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as classics that have been coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer handbags discounted bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied in a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric shapes. Described as "a piece of art" by the designer the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front of the fashion week runways, including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for the late fashion designer handbags pink Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to have something for all.