The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care the value of it will increase with time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites such as 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 of the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we call designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation as the designers of gorgeous and bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.

During WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of bags required to carry war supplies. After the war young people were granted more freedom and were given the option of deciding for what women could carry on her body relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were now allowed to explore their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative designs for bags were developed. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these new designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales soar. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their fashion. Due to the demand, it could take months or even weeks to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Contrary to other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who can't live without the latest designer bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained fame after being carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures and is another bag from the designer that is now well-known.

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

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in designer clothes and its signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just practical accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands 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 unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that makes them popular with young fashion-conscious women.

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags by the season. The company's designer bags feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly popular among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your closet. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that remain coveted for years.

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 and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with knots to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors and the black one with gold YSL logo is a classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric design. Described as "a masterpiece" by its creator the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favorite of fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front of the fashion week runways and includes the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration behind late fashion online designer bags Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine piece that could be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of Stunning Marc Jacobs Large Tote: Bright Green Elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding the Chanel bag. Saks The carefully curated collection of designer bags includes everything from stylish shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.