The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to think about. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of fashions.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make bags required to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried on a woman's person became looser. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were able to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s with chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it can take weeks, or even months, to locate one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a longevity that can last for decades. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of 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 highly sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

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

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. 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 instantly elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, that is only available to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

Although iconic designer handbags large bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The brand's bags also feature the perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer handbags discounted bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of classic and contemporary styles. The brand provides a variety of colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.

According to The RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after designer bags 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 the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato with an added twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a slim feminine accessory.

If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag these bags are the ideal way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.