The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it its value will increase with time.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We sourced data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

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

It was in the 1950s when bags changed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags required for war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and rules regarding what could be carried around by women were looser. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now allowed to explore their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers tapped into the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these 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 agenda and became a significant part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the classic, structured purse to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse bag, for instance, was a huge hit during the decade and is still found on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion that change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you can't be without a Designer Handbags Pink bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous on the arm Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer 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 iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs this season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most recognizable model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

If you prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

There are numerous luxury fashion designers who create a mark with their beautiful bags. The 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 known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand offer a perfect balance of functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its unique 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 the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was established in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

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

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for all. This edit includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as classics that have been coveted for years to come.

According to a resale data 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 designer Handbags pink Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways and includes the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named after the muse for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer handbags for cheap backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.