The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag, and take good care of it the value of it will increase with time.

We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, bags began to evolve from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes in the present.

In WWII, purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, gained popularity because women were in a position to experiment with their own fashion.

The 60s witnessed the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and an array of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and even chainmail. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes like the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success during the decade, and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a new style becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, or even months to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and online designer bags is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags of all time.

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 design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer bag that's also gaining 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 modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways in the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer yellow handbags clothes and its signature feminine but casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek design and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion you're aware that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are many luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. 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 clothes and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand offer a perfect balance of functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made their marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags from the brand are modern interpretations of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

In addition other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. The brand's bags have an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are many other designer bags brands 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 according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are becoming more popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes and styles that will suit any occasion. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some classics that have been coveted for a long time.

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

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary online Designer Bags bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato however, it has twists. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag which combines functionality with geometric design. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its creator as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to make. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has seen many of its items on the fashion week front rows including the LouLou Toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

If you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.