The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going 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 money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in style 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 came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic styles which are still seen in many wardrobes.

During WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were in a position to experiment with their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using leather, designer handbags and Purses vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and were a major part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and is still seen today on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were sought-after by women who wanted their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it can take weeks, or even months to find one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live without a designer handbags sale outlet uk bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most recognizable designer handbags of all time.

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 a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from its signature style and has released other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will 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 referred to as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect blend of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The brand's bags also feature an ideal balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand have an unique blend of sophistication and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

There are many other designer bags brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with various colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety 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 the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by critics and fans.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that 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.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and sculptural geometry. Described as "a masterpiece" by its designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag named after the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

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