The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

As women began to work outside of the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other essentials. Bags have evolved over time from bags that were that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to change 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 celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions in the present.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed to carry war supplies. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules regarding what could be carried on a woman's person were looser. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were now allowed to explore their own style.

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

In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the classic, structured purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. Due to the high demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great option for those who cannot be without a designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the beginning 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 in history.

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

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks this season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with couture details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

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 method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

designer handbags amazon Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with high-quality materials and have distinctive design.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also are a perfect blend of function and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. The brand's designer bags showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand 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 as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorite. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018, has gained popularity with its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand feature a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashion-conscious women.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can hire designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic designs and comes with an array of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular among fashion designers.

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 shapes, colors and styles and therefore there's something for every person. This selection includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

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

For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the iconic intercciato from the brand with twists. The strap is tied in knots to add interest to the design. The bag comes in a variety of colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a work of art" it is reported to require 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

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

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags by other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

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