The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

We've compiled a list to assist you in making a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

Bags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we see as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to evolve from being 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 brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of outfits.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were needed for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and a greater choice for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were in a position to explore their own fashion.

The 60s saw the rise of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and numerous new bag designs were invented. Designers capitalized on the imagination and creativity of the 60s using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. Many of these modern designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a key element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and is still found on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it can take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, coveted bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design with tassels 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 millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from this logo style and has introduced other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways In My Area the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly elevate any look.

If you prefer a less formal style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with high-quality materials and an exclusive design 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 beautiful handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the designer bag market. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-awarded designs. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Moreover other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which draws the attention of young fashionistas.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic designs, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly 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 a variety of shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied into knots that add 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.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with geometric shapes. Described as "a masterpiece" by the designer handbags in sale the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

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

Many celebrities have been seen in bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It is a boxy, designer Yellow handbags feminine accessory.

If you're looking for a new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.