The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women gained independence and began working outside of the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money, and other essentials. 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 as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to change from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for bold, beautiful bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits today.

In WWII the purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable since women were allowed to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude affected fashion trends. A range of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge hit in the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. When they are well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for instance were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were a sought-after accessory for women who desired a certain style. Due to high demand, it can sometimes take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for a long time unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid speed. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you don't want to live without a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The iconic bag, named in honor of actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame through the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after today, with long wait lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame because it was carried by celebrities, influencers and other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item, the brand has moved away from the signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. In addition, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a reimagined version of the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its signature feminine but casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed using high-quality materials and possess a distinctive design.

While iconic designer bag brands such as 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 class. The brand's bags also feature a perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959 is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also designed their own designer bags which have become cult favourites. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular with young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer handbags chanel bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in an array of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant accessory to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season come in a range of shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as some classics that have been sought-after 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 and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in a knot that adds interest to the design. The bag is available in various shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth considering. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. It is described as "a piece of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 distinct parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on front rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directional stitching.

Many stars have been seen wearing bags from other designers, such as 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.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.