The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable accessory, they can be an excellent investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and maintain it with care the value of it will increase with time.

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from pouches 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, bags changed from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles which are still seen in many fashions.

During WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for wartime. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were allowed to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains and even chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classical silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they have a celebrity following sales skyrocket. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a style is deemed to be an 'It bag', it could take weeks, even months to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without the latest designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer handbags london bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer bags ever made.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an edgy look and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other notable people, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item but the brand has now moved away from the signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion enthusiast, you will know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. designer handbags on sale cheap bags are designed with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and fashion. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women and popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

In addition other brands have also created their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, founded in the year 2018, has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand have an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which draws the attention of young fashionistas.

There are also many other designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you hire affordable designer handbags uk bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mix of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in various colors and sizes. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles, so there's something for everyone. This collection includes both brand 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, 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 highly sought-after by both the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the iconic intercciato from the brand with a twist. The strap is tied in knots to add some interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer handbag. It is a boxy, feminine accessory.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the ideal way to add the luxury look to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.