The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will increase in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup, and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in both design and function to what we see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags changed from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of outfits.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for wartime. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became popular as women were now free to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of new bags were created. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the arms of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. Due to high demand, it may take weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent option for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained 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 sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer bags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from the signature design and has launched other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways over the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft 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 referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. designer handbags black bags are made with quality materials and distinctive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are many designer names who are known for their stunning bags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names Of designer handbags, there are many more that are not. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini 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 renowned for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. Staud is which is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and offers various sizes and colors. The company has also launched various 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 come in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for every person. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with geometric shapes. It is described as "a piece of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its products on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

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

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.