The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it its value will increase over time.

To assist you in making the right choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites such as 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 fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.

During WWII, purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were able to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A range of new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success in the decade and is still seen today on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who can't live without a designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the early 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 famous 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 edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item but the brand has now moved away from its signature design and has launched other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend, and was seen on plenty of runway styles this season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

For those who prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. It is a perfect blend of style and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbags beige handbag is a symbol that proves you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also designed their own bags that have become cult favourites. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, founded in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are also many other designer bags that have made their mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mixture of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides a variety of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes There's something for every person. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after 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. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato, but with an added twist. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

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

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or 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-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.