The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take good care of it its value will increase as time passes.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short History

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags were fashionable and a practical tool for carrying makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in style and function, to what we recognize as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that handbags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as the designers of gorgeous and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the development of iconic designs that are still seen in many wardrobes.

During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials in the production of bags required to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried around by women were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became fashionable as women were able to explore their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. These new designs were influenced in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the structured, boxy 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 shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, or even months, to locate one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for decades, unlike many other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you can't live with out a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after today, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer handbags in history.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from the 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 pattern, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on many runways in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

If you prefer a more minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are many fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names of designer handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. 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 known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also developed their own cheap designer bags bags which have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained acclaim for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs, and the brand offers various colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.

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 and are suitable for every occasion. 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 resale report for 2019, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a work of art" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

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

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