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 the value of it will increase over time.

To assist you in making the right selection, we've compiled an extensive list of designers to consider. We gathered data from reliable luxury resale websites like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Goes Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more popular as women became independent and began working outside the home. They were also used to carry money, makeup and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist from Ancient Egypt, through a series of changes in style and function, to what we know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, handbags began to evolve from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of stunning and bold bags. They were sought-after by celebrities. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic designs that can still be seen in a variety of outfits.

In WWII purse designs changed as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials to create the bags that were required to carry war supplies. The closing of the war brought an era of freedom for young people, and rules about what could be carried on a woman's person were relaxed. Bags that were previously considered unfashionable, such as drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became fashionable because women were free to explore their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie and youth culture attitudes that influenced fashion trends, and a plethora of new bag designs were invented. Designers tapped into the imagination and creativity of the 60s by using chainmail, vinyl, leather, and chains. Many of these modern styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the time.

designer handbags sale outlet bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic silhouettes such as the boxy, structured bag to create more contemporary and sleek styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success in the decade that followed and is still found on the arm of models and celebrities today.

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 sought-after accessory for women who wanted to emulate their style. When a style is deemed to be a 'it bag', it can take months, or even weeks, to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic designer handbags vintage Bags

Designer bags from the past can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading with a breakneck pace. These timeless, sought-after bags are an excellent investment if you aren't able to be without a designer bag or to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The iconic bag, named after the actress Jane Birkin and launched in 1984, shot to fame by the arm of Princess Grace Kelly who carried it over her stomach during the early stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is sought after and has long wait lists and is considered to be among the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather, with large handles and a bohemian feel, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian flair, and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired silhouette and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. The Celine Luggage tote that came into the spotlight after being carried by influencers and celebrities as well as other influencers, is a recognizable designer bag that's also growing in popularity with the millennials.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory The brand has shifted away from this logo style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the more modern Cleo. Additionally, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a modern take on the aughts bag trend and was spotted on numerous runway designs during the last season.

The brand was founded in 1952 and is famous for its fashion-forward clothing with exquisite details. The brand's 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 and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

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. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimal hardware create the perfect balance between practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you are a fashion enthusiast you'll know that purses can be more than just functional items. A designer handbag is a fashion statement that says you're a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are designed with quality materials and an exclusive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

Although iconic designer bags such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's apparel and accessories that ooze sophistication and classic American style. The bags are also a 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 luxury fashion brands have also made their mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its unique designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase modern interpretations of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Box Bag and Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was established in 1959. The company is known for its feminine women's clothes and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

In addition other brands have also created their own styles of designer bags that have become a cult-favorite. For instance, Staud, which was launched in 2018, is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained recognition due to its modern and fun approach to design of bags. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bag brands who have made their mark on the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that allows customers to rent designer bags by the season. The designer bags are a mix of modern and classic styles. The brand offers an array of colors and sizes. The company also offers a variety of vegan bags that are increasingly fashionable among fashion designers.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential accessory to your wardrobe. The most stylish designer bags of the season are available in a variety of designs, colors and shapes and therefore there's something for everyone. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts and some staples that remain coveted for years.

According to a resale information report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and 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 sought after with both fans and critics.

Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the signature intercciato of the brand, but with an added twist. The strap is tied with a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colorways but the black with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

Another bag worth considering is the Loewe's Puzzle bag that combines function with sculptural geometry. The designer handbag with a geometric design, described by its designer as "a masterpiece" It is said to require 75 leather pieces and a lot of skill to make. Beyonce, Sienna Miller and other fashion influencers love the bag.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had numerous of its items on the front rows of fashion week including the LouLou Toy bag. This sleek and elegant crossbody bag named after the inspiration for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both functional as well as timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

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

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding a Chanel bag. Saks' curated collection of designer handbags includes everything from trendy shoulder bags to bags which can be carried wherever to spacious designer handbags sale outlet uk backpacks.