The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashion staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it with care, its value can increase over time.

We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained the reputation of having elegant, stunning bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of brand bags resulted in the creation of iconic styles which are still found in many outfits.

In WWII, 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 were given the option of deciding for what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became popular as women were able to experiment with their personal style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitudes influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative bags were created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time with bags made of vinyl, leather chains, chains and chainmail. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the time.

designer handbags large bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes like the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade and is still seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. 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 style is deemed to be an 'it bag' it can take months, or even weeks to locate one due to the demand.

Iconic designer handbags Manchester Bags

Classic designer bags can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, well-loved bags are a great investment if you don't want to live with out an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless fashion to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after in the present, with long waiting lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags in history.

Other designer bags that have reached the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with 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 celebrities and influential people, is another recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among millennials.

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 contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was seen on numerous runways during the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato method, which is exclusive to this Italian label. The sleek design and minimalist hardware provide the perfect balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fan of fashion, you know that purses are more than mere accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and fashion. Designer bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature distinctive design.

While the iconic designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark through beautiful bags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that ooze class. The bags are also a a perfect balance of function and fashion and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded styles. The designer bags offered by the brand offer modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini-Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a posh fashion label that was founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as 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, which was launched in 2018 has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that attracts young fashionistas.

There are a variety of designer bags brands 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 by the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles and offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular 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 and are suitable for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts, as well as classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, consider Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has twists. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The bag is described as "a work of art" by its creator the bag's geometric design reportedly requires 75 separate leather parts and a whole lot of skill to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. The name is a tribute to the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple but impressive crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers such as Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities including Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag could be your new designer handbag. It's a slim feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to create a sartorial statement by adding the 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 provide something for all.