The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable accessory, they can be a great investment. If you buy a classic bag and take good care of it its value will increase with time.

We've compiled a list to help you make a decision. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief Background

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

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as the designers of gorgeous, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that are still used in many fashions in the present.

In WWII the purse designs were altered slightly as manufacturers employed less metal when making bags for war. 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, gained popularity since women were in a position to explore their own fashion.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bags were created. Designers capitalized on the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using leather, vinyl, chainmail and chains. These new styles were inspired in part by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious style of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a significant aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more sleek and contemporary styles. The YSL Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become well-known, sales rise. Hermes bags, for instance, were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their fashion. Due to the high demand, it may take weeks or even months to get your hands one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other trends in fashion, which change at a rapid speed Designer bags with a classic design have a long-lasting appeal that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great option for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, gained fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a highly sought-after bag, with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most recognizable designer bags ever made.

Other designer bags that have earned the status of an It bag include Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag in box leather, Chloe's Marcie bag with an edgy look and large handles and the Givenchy Pandora Bag with a box-inspired design and tassels that refer to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being worn by celebrities and influencers, is another recognizable designer handbags pink bag that is also gaining popularity among young people.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh version of the aughts bag trend and was seen on numerous runway designs this season.

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

For those who prefer a more minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a method known as intrecciato, a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is the perfect blend of elegance and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast, you will know that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a symbol that proves you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and fashion. designer handbags black bags are constructed with top-quality materials and feature a unique aesthetic.

Although iconic designer bags like Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example is a prestigious brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that ooze class. The brand's bags also feature an ideal balance of function and fashion and signature elements like 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 Online Designer Bags bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing designed for women as well as bags that are popular like the Gabrielle Hobo purse and the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Additionally, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud, a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. The bags of the brand feature an exclusive blend of class and fun that attracts young fashion-conscious women.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags that have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic designs and offers various sizes and colors. The company also has vegan bags that are becoming more fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes, styles and colors that will suit any occasion. This collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts, as well as some staples that have been coveted for years to come.

According to The RealReal's resale report, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still popular with critics and fans.

For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand, but with twists. The strap is tied with a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black with gold YSL logo is the most popular.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric shapes. The handbag is geometrically designed and described by its designer as "a masterpiece", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of skill to make. The bag is a favorite among fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Many stars have been seen in bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a few examples. The Heroine bag could be your next designer bag. It's a slim feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch luxury to your wardrobe, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags at Saks is sure to provide something for anyone.