The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

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

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

As women began to work outside the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became fashionable and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt, through a series changes in design and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to evolve from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still found in many fashions.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials to create bags needed for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were able to experiment with their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the time.

In the 1990s designer handbags for women bags were back in fashion and were a major element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and is still seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales increase. Hermes bags, for example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it could take months, or even weeks, to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who can't be without the latest designer bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after today, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, designer handbags discounted with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways over the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. 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 elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses are more than just functional items. A designer bag is an accessory that shows you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are a variety of designer names who make their mark through beautiful handbags. The iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made their marks with fashionable designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its unique design and CFDA award-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular, such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and Designer handbags discounted the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

In addition other brands have also created their own style of designer handbags amazon bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, founded in the year 2018, has gained popularity with its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made their mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of modern and classic styles. The brand provides an array of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for everyone. This selection includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

According to the RealReal's resale report, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like 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.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in different colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

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 work of art", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its products on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

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

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags discounted (sneak a peek at this site) handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.