The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled the top designers to look at. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in both design and function to what we see as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic designs that are still found in many wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were needed to carry war supplies. After the war the young were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became popular as women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine style of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and were a major part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it can take months, or even weeks to find one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed, classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, coveted bags are a great investment if you can't be without a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted 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 iconic designer bags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles this season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

If you prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide an ideal combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista, designer handbags and purses you will know that purses are more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinct design.

There are a variety of designer names who create a mark with their beautiful bags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles and comes with an array of colors and sizes. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for every person. This selection includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with reviewers and admirers.

For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer handbags london label that has seen many of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbags sale outlet uk bag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags has everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.