The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags are more than just an accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it its value will increase over time.

To assist you in making the best choice, we compiled an extensive list of designers to look at. We gathered information from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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

It was during the 1950s that handbags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of brand bags led to the development of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers utilized less metal and other materials to make the bags that were needed for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and were given the option of deciding regarding what women could carry on her person were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic, became popular as women were now free to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s with chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. When a new style becomes an 'it bag' it can take weeks, even months, to locate one due to the high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion that are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to be without a designer bag or want to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most recognized designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to hide the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most famous designer bags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box Faneam Gray Leather RFID Wallet Women Designer Handbag with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote was brought into the spotlight after being spotted by influencers and celebrities and influencers, is another well-known designer bag that is also gaining popularity among millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from its 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 modern take on the aughts bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with couture details. Its signature feminine but casual look can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will instantly make any outfit look more stylish.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist Red Samantha Clutch Bag: Luxurious and Stylish that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is only available to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette Fioeyr Glitter Envelope Clutch: Chic and Glamorous (www.onlinedesignerhandbags.uk) minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed using high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic that is distinctive in a crowd.

There are a variety of luxury fashion designers who are known for their stunning handbags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. For example, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The bags of the brand offer a perfect balance of functionality and fashion. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made a mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand that is known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer a modern take on classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a luxury fashion brand that was established in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed 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 bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity for its modern and playful approach to design of bags. The bags of the brand are an exclusive blend of class and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you 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 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 essential accessory to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for every person. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

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

If you're looking for a more modern designer bag, consider 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 in a knot that adds an element of interest to the design. The bag comes in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is a classic.

The Loewe puzzle bag is a different bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. It is described as "a piece of art" by the designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 distinct leather parts and a whole amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front rows of fashion week and includes the LouLou toy bag. Named after the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is both functional and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

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

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.