The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.

We've put together a list of items to help you make a decision. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Handbags became more popular as women started to work outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now free to explore their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and is still found on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last for decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who can't be without the latest designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by celebrities and influencers and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that's also gaining popularity with millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its fashion-forward clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

While the iconic designer brands 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 luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer an ideal blend of function and style, with signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. The brand's designer handbags red bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and high-end bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies 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 based on the season. The designer bags are a blend of contemporary and classic styles. The brand provides an array of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

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, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer handbags 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 Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with critics and fans.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag to consider is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a work of art" It is said to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front row of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless due to its directional stitching.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding an 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.