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 buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags changed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII the designs of purses were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and a greater choice for what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were able to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s with leather, vinyl, chainmail, and chains. These new fashions were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they have an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who wanted to show off their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it could take weeks, or even months, to get your hands on one due to the high demand.

Iconic cheap designer bags Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for decades, unlike many 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 recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with an eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with the millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since moved away from the logo style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the style of the aughts bags. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is only available to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses are more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who make their mark through beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags are also a the perfect combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded 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 luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags, such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and comes with various colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.

According to The RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel hand Bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied in knots that add interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Another bag to consider is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbags for women handbag, described by its creator as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favorite of fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

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

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

If you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for all.