The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take care of it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

Handbags became more popular as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we recognize as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that are still seen in many fashions.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what a woman could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were able to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were created. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and can still be seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. 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 style. Due to the demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who can't live without a designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after and has long waiting lists and Designer Handbags and Purses is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags green handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

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 contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has couture details. Its signature feminine but casual look can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

There are many fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature an ideal balance of function and fashion, with signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer contemporary versions of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Moreover, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, Designer Handbags and Purses which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers an array of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & 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.

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another option to think about is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric design. It is described as "a masterpiece" by the designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather 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 featured on the front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the inspiration for late fashion designer handbags women's Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.

Many stars have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

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