The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

To assist you in making the best decision, we've put together the top designers to consider. We sourced information from trusted luxury resale websites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Brief History

As women began to work outside the home and gained more independence in the 1900s, bags became fashionable and a practical tool for carrying money, makeup and other essentials. Bags evolved from small pouches that were worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of modifications in style and function, to what we see today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s as more designers came into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel and Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly earned an image of stunning, striking bags that were sought after by the elite. 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 changed slightly as manufacturers used less metal when making bags for the war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what a woman could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were able to experiment with their personal style.

The 60s saw the emergence of youth culture and hippie attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new designs for bags were developed. Designers were inspired by the whimsy of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. These new fashions 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 aspect of the fashion world. Designers reworked classic silhouettes such as the structured, boxy purse to create more contemporary and sleek designs. YSL's Muse Bag, for example was a huge success in the decade and can still be seen on the shoulders and arms of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are often named after a famous person and once they have the attention of celebrities, sales explode. 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. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it could take months, or even weeks to locate one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

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

One of the most well-known designer bags around is the Hermes Birkin. This iconic bag, named after actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, became famous by the arm of princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the initial stages of pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after bag with year long waitlists and is regarded as one of the most iconic designer bags in history.

Other designer bags that have reached 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 shape and tassels referencing Greek mythology. Celine's luggage bag, which gained popularity due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was a popular fashion accessory. However the brand has since shifted away from the signature style. Instead it has launched other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the modern Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design, is a reimagined version of the style of the aughts bags. It was seen on numerous runways during the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is renowned for its ready-to-wear clothing with elegant details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual look is evident in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag is a tribute to the brand's most popular model, and its soft leather and gold chain strap will instantly elevate any outfit.

If you prefer a more minimalist style Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato, 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 a fashion-conscious person and you're aware of the importance of purses, they are more than mere accessories. A designer handbag is a statement of fashion that says you're a trendsetter who has impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with high-quality materials and an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are household names but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark with beautiful handbags. 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 bags of the brand have a perfect balance between function and fashion. The signature elements are 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 designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was founded in 2002, is a contemporary brand that is renowned for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini-Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is among the most storied brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and ultra-popular bags like the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

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

There are a variety of designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, including Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service where you can rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of classic and contemporary styles. The brand offers a variety of sizes and colors. The company has also introduced various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly fashionable in the fashion industry.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is a timeless accessory to add to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season come in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This collection includes new hero items that have impressed fashion experts as well as classics that have been sought-after for years to come.

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

For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The purse is made from the brand's signature intercciato however, it has twists. The strap is tied with knots to add some an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in several colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth looking into. It's a bag that combines function and geometric design. It is described as "a masterpiece" by its creator the bag's geometric design is said to require 75 leather components and a amount of expertise to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent, another designer brand, has also seen its products featured on the front row of fashion week, including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named in honor of the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless due to its stitching that is directional.

Many stars have been seen sporting bags from other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slender but feminine design that can become your new everyday designer bag.

Whether you're looking for an elegant new McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag, these bags are the ideal way to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Saks' carefully selected collection of designer handbags includes everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels that can be carried anywhere to spacious designer yellow handbags backpacks.