The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it with care its value will increase over time.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled the top designers to look at. We sourced data from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in design and function, to what we recognize today as designer handbags.

It was in the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers flooded the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles which are still found in many fashions.

During WWII the purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war the young 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, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were 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 new bags were created. Designers took advantage of the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.

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 structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit in the decade that followed and is still found on the shoulders of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous handbag designers people and once they have an following with celebrities, sales increase. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it could take weeks, even months, to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed, classic designer bags have a longevity that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are an excellent option for those who cannot live without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. This 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 in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after in the present, with long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most famous designer handbags of all time.

Other designer bags that have achieved the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag that has an eclectic style and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained a lot of attention because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable people as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead it has introduced other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on numerous runway designs in the past season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer in 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 influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is only available to this Italian label. The bag's streamlined shape and minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, bags can be more than Adorable Kawaii Pin Canvas Messenger Bag: Functional And Stylish accessories. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are made using high-quality materials and possess a a unique aesthetic.

There are many designer handbags sale outlet uk names who make their mark through beautiful handbags. While iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The brand's bags also feature the perfect blend of function and style with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the world of designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-awarded designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothes for women and popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are many other designer bags that have made a mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mix of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in a variety of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This collection includes both brand new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including 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 popular with the public and the critics.

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied into a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several shades, but the black one with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. Described as "a piece of art" by the designer the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured numerous of its items on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. Named in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

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

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