The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've put together a list of items to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Histories

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, designer Handbags List money and other necessities. Bags evolved over time from bags worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags changed from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of branded bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII the purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal to make bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and a greater choice for what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be not fashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable as women were able to experiment with their personal style.

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

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

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and when they gain 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 style. Due to high demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which come and go at breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last for decades. These timeless, well-loved bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to live with out a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known Designer handbags used bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair 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 that came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is 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 released other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has elegant details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most influential model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of elegance and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista, you will know that bags can be more than functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

There are numerous designer names who make their mark through beautiful bags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags are also a an ideal balance of function and fashion, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The brand's designer bags showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Additionally other brands have developed their own style of designer bags that have become a popular cult. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a brand based in Los Angeles that has gained popularity for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags by the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This edit includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts as well as some staples that have remained coveted for a long time.

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

For a more contemporary designer bag, designer handbags Outlet you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied with a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth considering. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. Described as "a work of art" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather components and a lot of talent to create. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer handbags vintage Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its directional quilting.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine piece 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 stylish McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.