The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced information 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 the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags were fashionable and also a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series changes in style and function, to what we know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials to make bags needed to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became popular as women were now free to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a key part of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic designs, like the classic, structured purse to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. Due to the demand, it could take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. Originally launched in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after item 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 oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures as well as other notable figures, is another online designer handbags bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is a perfect balance of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinctive design.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other fashion houses that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

In addition other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand have an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

There are also many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers a variety of sizes and colors. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

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 a variety of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

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) and 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.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

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

Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

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