The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed to carry war supplies. The end of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were now free to explore their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and chainmail. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and is still seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take months or even weeks to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This 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 pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and designer handbags Vintage tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity with young people.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from its signature style and has released other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways over the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A Designer handbags vintage (littleyaksa.yodev.Net) handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials and have distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are many designer names who are known for their stunning bags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The brand's bags also feature a perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer contemporary versions of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition, other brands have created their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are a unique blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are also many other designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The designer handbags names bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and offers a diverse selection of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for all. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to a resale data report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and 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, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" it is reported to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine piece that could be your new favorite designer bag.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer handbags pink bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.