The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic essential, they can also be an excellent investment. If you buy a classic bag, and take good care of it, its value can increase over time.

We've compiled a list to aid you in making a choice. We gathered data from reliable websites for luxury resales such as 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 for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. 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 as designer handbags.

In the 1950s that bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers came onto the market. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning, bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles which are still seen in many wardrobes.

During WWII the designs of purses changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal when making bags for wartime. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules regarding what women could carry around were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were able to experiment with their own style.

The 60s saw the emergence of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and numerous new bag designs were created. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the time with bags in leather, vinyl, chains, and even chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the unpretentious attitude of the time.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the structured, boxy purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still seen on the arm of models and celebrities today.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they become popular, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to replicate their style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, or even months to find one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid speed. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you don't want to live with out a designer handbags outlet (Learn Additional) bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most well-known designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. 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 on her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought-after today, with long wait lists and is considered to be among the most famous designer handbags in history.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian vibe, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage-tote bag, which gained fame due to its use by influencers, celebrities and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has become recognizable.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from the signature style and has released other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag with its ruched pattern, is a reimagined version of the aughts style bag. It was featured on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is famous for its ready-to-wear clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual style can be seen in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most iconic model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique that is exclusive to this Italian label. The bag is the perfect balance of style and practicality with its sleek silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista, you will know that purses can be more than functional accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

There are a variety of fashion designers that create a mark with their beautiful bags. Designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags are also a a perfect balance of function and fashion with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags by the brand offer modernized versions of classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box 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 clothes and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Additionally other brands have developed their own styles of designer handbags green bags that have become a cult-favorite. Staud, an Los Angeles based brand, launched in the year 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unique blend of class and fun, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made a mark in the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows you to lease designer bags based on the season. The designer bags offered by the company are an array of modern and classic styles and comes with a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company has also launched vegan bags that are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The best designer bags of the season are available in many shapes, colors and styles There's something for everyone. This edit includes both new items that have impressed fashion experts and some staples that have been sought-after for decades.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, 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) & Gucci bags, including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought-after by both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is constructed from the iconic intercciato from the brand, but with a twist. The strap is tied in a knot to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to create. The bag is a favorite among fashion influencers like Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has seen its products featured on the front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Many celebrities have been seen in bags from other designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slim yet feminine accessory that could become your new everyday designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit whether you're looking for an upgrade to a fashionable McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding the Chanel bag. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for all.