The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase an old-fashioned 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 information from trusted websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What is Going Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

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

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned the reputation of having stunning, striking bags that were sought after by socialites. The popularity of branded bags led to the creation of iconic styles that still adorn many wardrobes today.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal and other materials in the production of the bags that were needed to carry war supplies. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were able to experiment with their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie culture were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of new designs for bags were developed. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s with chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. These new fashions were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the era.

Designer bags returned to the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the classic, structured purse to create more modern and modern styles. The YSL Muse bag, for instance was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and once they gain an following with celebrities, sales increase. 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 emulate their fashion. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it can take weeks, even months to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which change at a rapid speed Classic designer bags have a long-lasting appeal that can last for decades. These timeless, sought-after staples are a great investment for those who cannot live without an expensive bag and want to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of the actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag shot to fame when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag on her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought-after today, with long wait lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags 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 Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by celebrities and influential people as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that is also gaining popularity among millennials.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a fashion icon. However, the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags like the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern is a reimagined version of the aughts bag style. It was featured on many runways over the past season.

Founded in 1952, the brand was the first to introduce fashion-forward clothes that had 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 influential model, and its supple leather with a gold chain strap will elevate any look.

If you 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, a method that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of style and practicality with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast and know what you want, bags can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a statement of fashion that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have distinctive design.

There are many designer names who are known for their stunning handbags. While iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. For instance, a high-end fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that exude class and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a marks with fashionable bags that are designer include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a contemporary fashion brand known for its distinctive designs and CFDA-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The brand is most well-known for its feminine clothing for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also developed their own designer bags which have become cult favorites. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy that makes them popular with young fashionistas.

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 are a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers various sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most fashionable designer bags come in a range of shapes and styles, offering something for every occasion. This edit includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as some staples that have been coveted for a long time.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most sought-after designer handbags women's (pop over to this site) bags of 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). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by reviewers and admirers.

For a more contemporary designer bag, check out Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato with twists. The strap is tied with knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Another bag worth considering is Loewe's Puzzle bag, which combines functionality with sculptural geometry. The bag is described as "a work of art" by the designer the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 parts of leather and a lot of talent to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer handbags on sale cheap label that has seen numerous of its items on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou Toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the inspiration behind the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its stitching that is directional.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags from other designers, including Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag could be your new designer bag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

If you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or make a sartorial statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the perfect choice to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels, to spacious designer backpacks, the curated selection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.