The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be 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 to help you make a decision. We gathered information from trusted 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 gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles which are still seen in many outfits.

In WWII, purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for war. The closing of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were allowed to play around with their personal fashion.

The 60s saw the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

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

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live with out an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most iconic designer handbags for women bags ever made.

Other designer bags that have earned 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 Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However, the brand has since moved away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as 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 seen on many runways in the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has couture details. Its signature feminine but casual look can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a 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 which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of style and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses are more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have an exclusive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

There are many fashion designers that create a mark with their beautiful handbags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer an ideal balance of function and fashion and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Moreover other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained popularity for Women its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and fun that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

There are also 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 that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in a variety of sizes and colors. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes There's something for all. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.

According to The RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including 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. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine piece that could be your next favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to create a stylish statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the ideal way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.