The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just an aesthetic accessory, they can be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and take care of it, it will appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale sites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Background

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

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

During WWII the purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for war. After the war, young people were given more freedom and the rules for what women could carry on her body were relaxed. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became fashionable because women were free to explore their own style.

In the 60s, the youth culture and hippie attitudes were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers tapped into the creativity and innovation of the 60s by using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. These new styles were inspired by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the agenda and became a key aspect of the fashion world. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the arms and shoulders of celebrities and models.

Designer bags are usually named after a famous person and when they gain the attention of celebrities, sales explode. For example, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. They were a sought-after accessory for women who wanted to show off their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'it bag' it could take weeks, or even months to find one due to the demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags will last for years unlike other fashion trends that come and go at a rapid speed. These enduring, coveted staples are an excellent investment for those who can't be without the latest designer bag and are looking to add a timeless look to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is one of the most well-known designer bags. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named after actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was spotted on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag over her stomach to conceal the early stages of her pregnancy. Today, the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most famous 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 a bohemian flair and oversized handles, and Givenchy's Pandora Bag with a box-inspired silhouette and tassels that reference Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained fame because it was carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling The brand has shifted away from its signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the modern Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was seen on plenty of runway styles in the past season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is known for its upscale clothing that has exquisite details. Its distinctive feminine yet casual style can be seen in its handbags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any outfit.

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

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion lover, you know that purses are more than just practical accessories. A designer bag is an accessory that shows that you're a trend-setter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are made using high-quality materials and have distinctive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known There are many other fashion houses that make their mark with gorgeous handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude class. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect blend of function and style and signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other fashion houses have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is well-known for its distinctive design and CFDA award-winning styles. designer handbags on sale cheap bags from the brand are a modern twist on classic designs. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label that was founded in 1959, is one of the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular like the Gabrielle Hobo bag and the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Moreover, other brands have created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For example, Staud, which was founded in the year 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim due to its modern and fun approach to bag design. The bags of the brand are a unique mix of sophistication and whimsy that draws the attention of young fashionistas.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion scene. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags based on the season. The designer bags are a mixture of contemporary and classic styles. The brand comes in an array of colors and sizes. The company has also launched several vegan bags, which 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 best designer bags of the season are available in many designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts, as well as classics that have been sought-after for a long time.

According to a resale data report from The RealReal, the most sought-after designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics such as the Hermes Birkin Bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly desired by both the public and critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The purse is made of the brand's signature intrecciato material but with a twist that is quite literal: the strap is tied in knots that add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in various colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a true classic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth a look. It is a combination of functionality and geometric shapes. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its creator as "a work of art", reportedly takes 75 pieces of leather and a lot of expertise to create. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other style influencers adore the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another designer label that has featured many of its products on the front row of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This simple but impressive crossbody bag, named in honor of the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directional stitching.

Many celebrities have been seen wearing bags by other designers, like Alexander McQueen. Selena Gomez and Naomi Campbell are just a couple of examples. The Heroine bag is a slim but feminine design that can be your next favorite designer bag.

These bags will add a dash of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a stylish McQueen bag or make an sartorial statement by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags has everything from fashionable shoulder bags to satchels which can be carried wherever to spacious designer backpacks.