The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion accessory, they can be a great 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 think about. We sourced information from reputable luxury resales sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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

It was in the 1950s when bags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having bold, beautiful bags that were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles that are still seen in many outfits.

In WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal to make bags for war. The end of the war marked the dawn of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were now in a position to experiment with their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the carefree libertine style of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade and is still found on the arms of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months to locate one due to the demand.

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 essentials are an excellent investment for those who can't live without the latest designer handbag: showkoo large 28 Inch expandable - deep blue - onlinedesignerhandbags.uk, bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame on the arm princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of the most famous designer handbags of all time.

Other designer handbags pink bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag that has 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 a lot of attention because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

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

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of designer clothes and its distinctive feminine yet casual style is evident in the bags it offers. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more fashion houses that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication. The brand's bags also feature the perfect combination of fashion and function, with signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning styles. The brand's designer bags showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is famous for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Moreover other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a popular cult. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained recognition for its playful and contemporary approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for every person. This selection includes a few new pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags like the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) & Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the signature intercciato of the brand, but with a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a work of art" by its designer handbags green, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front of the fashion week runways and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both 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 could be your new designer handbag. It's a boxy, feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe whether you're looking for an upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer bags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried everywhere to spacious designer backpacks.