The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic staple, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and take care of it, it will increase in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became a fashion accessory as well as a useful tool for carrying makeup, money and other necessities. Bags have evolved over time from pouches worn around the waist of Ancient Egypt to what we now know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that handbags took a turn from being practical to becoming a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of designer bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions in the present.

During WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for wartime. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were considered out of fashion in the past, like drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were now able to play around with their personal style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie culture influenced fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the time by creating bags made of vinyl, leather, chains, and even chainmail. Many of these new styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are often named after famous people and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a new fashion becomes a 'it bag', it could take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many trends in fashion, which come and go at breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live with out an expensive bag or wish to add a touch of timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer handbags beige bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to 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. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long waiting lists and is believed to be one of the most iconic designer handbags ever made.

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 that has a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from its signature style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched style, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was seen on many runways over the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952. The brand was the first to introduce ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine yet casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is an ode to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will make any outfit look more stylish.

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

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 an accessory that shows you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. These designer bags are made with high-quality materials and have distinctive design.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names There are many other designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand are a perfect blend of function and style. Signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a mark with stylish bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags from the brand are modernized versions of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The brand is famous for its feminine women's clothing and ultra-popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

In addition other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For instance, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained popularity due to its modern and fun style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and fun, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are a variety of designer bags that have made their mark 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 company's designer bags feature an array of modern and classic styles, and the brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also has several vegan bags, which are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Handbags uk Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes both brand new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that remain coveted for years.

According to the RealReal's resale report for 2019, the most sought-after designer handbags of 2019 are Chanel bags including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags like the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made from the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied with knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products on the front rows 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 functional as well as timeless due to its directionally stitched.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine piece that could become your new everyday designer bag.

If you're in search of a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or make a statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the ideal way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer handbags red bags available at Saks is sure to have something for everyone.