The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care the value of it will increase over time.

To help you make the best decision, we've put together the top designers to look at. We gathered data from reputable luxury resales sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, handbags became fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we recognize 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 gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic designs that are still found in many fashions.

In WWII purse designs changed because manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of bags required to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and designer Handbags sale outlet uk the rules about what could be carried by women became looser. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were free to explore their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer handbags sale outlet Uk bags were back on the radar and became a key part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous people and when they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that change with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent investment for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched 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. The Birkin bag is highly sought after in the present, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most famous designer handbags ever made.

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

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory but the brand has now moved away from this logo design and has launched other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

If you 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 bag is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

There are a variety of designer names who are known for their stunning handbags. While iconic designer brands like 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 wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand offer a perfect balance of function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is known for its unique design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and fun that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a blend of modern and classic styles. The brand provides an array of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer handbags on sale cheap bags of the season come in many shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for every person. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been coveted for years to come.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It combines functionality and geometric design. It is described as "a work of art" by its designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front of the fashion week runways, including the LouLou toy bag. Named after the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of 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 an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer handbags for sale backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.