The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than just a fashion accessory. They are also a great investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've put together a list of items to aid you in making a choice. We gathered information from trusted websites for luxury resales such as Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to evolve from being practical and become status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned a reputation for elegant, stunning bags that were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags with a brand name resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still used in many fashions today.

In WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were required for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and a greater choice regarding what women could carry on her person relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable as women were able to explore their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes affected fashion trends. A variety of new bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity of the time by creating bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back on the radar and became a significant part of the fashion world. Many designers reworked classical designs, like the structured, boxy purse to create more sleek and contemporary styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge hit in the decade of the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms 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 example, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. When a new style becomes a 'it bag', it can take weeks, even months to get your hands on one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years unlike other fashion trends that change at a rapid pace. These enduring, coveted staples are a great investment for those who cannot be without an expensive bag and are looking to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most recognizable designer bags is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame through the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach in the early stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most recognizable designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with oversized handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian style, and Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired shape, tassels, and references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained popularity because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures and is another bag from the designer that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a cult fashion item but the brand has now moved away from the signature design and has launched other memorable bags including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways over the past season.

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

For those who prefer a less formal style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique referred to as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create an ideal balance between practicality and style.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinct design.

While iconic designer bag brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known, there are many other luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's clothing and accessories that ooze class. The bags of the brand have a perfect balance between functionality and fashion. The brand's signature elements include the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion houses that have made a 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 unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, like the Gilda Mini Box Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favourites. Staud, which is a Los Angeles based brand, which was launched in 2018 has gained a lot of attention for its playful and contemporary approach to bag design. Staud's bags feature a unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion industry. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and comes with an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly popular with fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your closet. The season's best designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have excited fashion experts, as well as classics that have been coveted for a long time.

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

For a modern and contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is constructed from the brand's signature intercciato, but with twists. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It combines functionality and geometric shapes. Described as "a work of art" by the designer the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather components and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers love the bag.

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

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on countless stars, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or create a sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the collection of Designer handbags discounted bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.