The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

designer handbags sale outlet uk bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase as time passes.

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled an extensive list of designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside of the home and began to gain more independence in the 1900s, handbags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series changes in both design and function to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic designs that are still found in many wardrobes.

During WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal to make bags for wartime. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker became popular because women were allowed to experiment with their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A range of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and can still be seen on the shoulders of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. 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 the demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live without a designer bag or to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. 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. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waiting lists and is considered to be one of the most iconic designer bags ever made.

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 that has an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote, which came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity with millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However the brand has since moved away from the signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend, and was seen on a variety of runway looks during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of fashion-forward clothes that had couture details and its distinctive feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable 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, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that demonstrates you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with quality materials and an exclusive design that stands out in a crowd.

There are a variety of designer names who create a mark with their beautiful bags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand also have a perfect balance between function and style. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is renowned for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion brand that was established in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Moreover other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand have an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mix of modern and classic styles. The brand offers a variety of colors and sizes. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an elegant addition to your closet. 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 enthralled fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage & 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 the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed of the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a rather literal twist--the strap is tied with knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 separate leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. The bag is a favorite among fashion-conscious celebrities, such as Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its items on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It is a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a Stylish And Chic ABOOFAN Designer Tote: Spacious And Trendy McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.