The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just an accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy a classic bag and maintain it, it can appreciate in value over time.

To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of go-to designers to consider. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

Handbags became more popular as women gained independence and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved over time, from bags that were worn around the waist in Ancient Egypt to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation for stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name led to the creation of iconic designs that still adorn many wardrobes today.

In WWII the designs of purses changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. After the war young people were granted more freedom and a greater choice for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were now free to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers capitalized on the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the carefree libertine attitudes of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success in the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually 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 became a coveted accessory for women who wanted to replicate their fashion. Due to the demand, it could take weeks or even months to acquire one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for decades unlike other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to be without an expensive bag or wish to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

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

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather and Chloe's Marcie bag with a bohemian flair and oversized 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 worn by influencers and celebrities, 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 shifted away from the logo style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched style is a reimagined rendition of the style of the aughts bags. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was a pioneer in ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in the bags it offers. 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 bag is a perfect balance of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are an avid fashionista you'll know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer handbag is an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made with high-quality materials and a unique aesthetic that makes a statement in the crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, as well as 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 contemporary fashion brand that is known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning styles. The brand's designer bags showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothing and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Additionally other brands have developed their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, founded in 2018 has gained recognition for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are many other designer Handbags chanel bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets you to lease designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company also has a range of vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new pieces that have thrilled fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

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

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is constructed from the brand's signature intrecciato, but with a more literal twist: the strap is tied in knots that add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. It is described as "a work of art" by its designer, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate parts of leather and a amount of expertise to make. The bag is a favorite among style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products on the front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag named after the inspiration behind late fashion designer handbags white Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its directionally stitched.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on numerous celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy but feminine design that can be your new favorite designer bag.

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 ideal way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to roomy designer backpacks, the curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for all.