The Best of designer handbags and purses (www.mecosys.com)

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it will appreciate in value over time.

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

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable and a practical tool to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in design and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits in the present.

In WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for the war. The end of the war brought the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now allowed to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of 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.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.

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

Iconic designer handbags cheap Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you aren't able to be without a designer bag or to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and Designer Handbags and Purses launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous 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 the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being worn by influencers and celebrities, is another recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity among young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from the logo style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways in the last season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista and know what you want, purses can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature distinct design.

While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded 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 Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Additionally, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as 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 are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers an array of sizes and colors. The company also has 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 most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as 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 like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has twists. The strap is tied with knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, designer handbags and purses that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer handbags on sale bag is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

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

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.