The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together the top designers to look at. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of changes in style and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.

It was during the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. 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 branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits today.

In WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, gained popularity since women were able 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 designs for bags were developed. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant part of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and is still seen on the arms of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For instance, 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. Due to the demand, it may take a few weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags that are timeless can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who cannot live without a affordable designer handbags uk bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after in the present, with long wait lists and designer handbags discounted is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, 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, which came into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also gaining popularity among young people.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item, the brand has moved away from this logo design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather with a gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide an ideal balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you're a fashion-forward person with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Designer handbags Discounted Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a name for themselves in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning styles. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothes and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Other brands have also created their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The brand's bags have an unique blend of class and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made an impact in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mix of modern and classic styles. The brand provides various sizes and colors. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes, so there's something for all. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for decades.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular Designer Handbags discounted bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by both reviewers and admirers.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied in a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag comes in different colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

Many celebrities have been seen sporting bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new everyday designer bag. It's a slim, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to bags that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer backpacks.