The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and take good care of it its value will increase over time.

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

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in both design and function to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that handbags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly since manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to make bags needed for war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now in a position to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie culture affected fashion trends. A range of new designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains and chainmail. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.

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

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it could take weeks, or even months to locate one due to the 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 bags are an excellent investment if you can't live without a designer handbags amazon bag or to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. Originally launched in 1984 and named after the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous handbag designers when it was spotted 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 highly sought-after bag with year long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most recognizable designer bags of all time.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an eclectic style and large handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create a perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning styles. The brand's designer bags showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and famous Handbag designers influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other cheap designer bags bags that have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles and offers an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts and some staples that are coveted for a long time.

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

For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato however, it has an added twist. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its items on the front rows of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless due to its quilting that is directional.

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

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make an sartorial statement by adding an Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.