The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags aren't just a fashionable essential, they can also be a great investment. If you purchase a classic bag and care for it, it can appreciate in value over time.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We gathered information from trusted 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 began to gain more independence in the 1900s, bags were fashionable as well as a useful tool for carrying 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 know today as designer handbags.

In the 1950s when more designers stepped into the market, handbags began to change from practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of stunning bags that were bold and beautiful. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of bags from brands resulted in the creation of iconic styles which can still be seen in a variety of outfits.

During WWII, purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal in the production of bags for the war. The end of the war brought a new era of freedom for young people, and the rules about what could be carried by women were relaxed. Bags that were considered to be unfashionable in the past, such as drawstring bags made from plastic or wicker became popular because women were allowed to experiment with their own style.

The 60s witnessed the rise of hippie culture and youth attitudes that influenced fashion trends and an array of new bag designs were invented. Designers took advantage of the creativity of the era with bags made of vinyl, leather, chains and chainmail. These new designs were influenced by Op Art, space exploration and the free-spirited style of the era.

Designer bags came back into the fashion scene in the 1990s. Numerous designers revamped classic designs, like the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and modern styles. YSL's Muse bag, for example was a huge success during the decade and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually 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 were sought-after by women who desired a certain style. When a new style becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, even months to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Unlike many other fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Designer bags with a classic design have a lifespan that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after bags are a great investment if you aren't able to live without a designer bag or want to add some timeless style to your wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most recognized designer bags. 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 over her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. Today the Birkin is a sought-after item with year-long waitlists and is considered one of the most recognizable designer bags of all time.

Givenchy's Antigona Lock Bag, in box leather with large handles and a bohemian look, Chloe Marcie, with its bohemian vibe and the Givenchy Pandora Bag, with its box-inspired design and tassels as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention after being carried by influencers, celebrities and other notable figures, is another designer bag that is now well-known.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a hot fashion accessory, the brand has moved away from its signature style and has introduced other bags that are memorable, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Meanwhile, Miu Miu's ruched Metalasse bag is a fresh design of the aughts-inspired bag trend and was spotted on a variety of runway looks in the past season.

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

For those who prefer a minimalist style, Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot clutch takes eight hours to weave the leather using a technique known as intrecciato. It is a technique that is exclusive to the Italian label. The bag is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality thanks to its sleek design and minimalist hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista you'll know that bags can be more than just functional items. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual who has impeccable taste and style. These designer bags are crafted with high-quality materials and distinctive design that makes a statement in the crowd.

While iconic designer bag brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more luxury fashion designers that make their mark with beautiful handbags. Tory Burch, for example, is a luxury brand that is known for its feminine women's clothes and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect combination of fashion and function with distinctive elements such as the double-T logo and classic silhouettes.

Other luxury fashion brands that have made their mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-winning designs. The designer bags of the brand showcase contemporary versions of classic shapes, including the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino, a luxury fashion label founded in 1959, is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is known for its feminine women's wear and bags that are extremely popular such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag and the Givenchy Pandora Bag.

Moreover, other brands have created their own style of designer handbags popular bags that have become a cult favorite. Staud is a Los Angeles based brand, launched in 2018, has gained a lot of attention for its contemporary and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags feature an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among fashion-conscious young ladies and influencers.

There are many other designer bag brands that have made their mark in the world of fashion, like Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags according to the season. The designer bags are a mixture of modern and classic styles. The brand provides various sizes and colors. The company has also introduced several vegan bags, which are becoming more popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag is an essential 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 collection includes new hero pieces that have enthralled fashion experts as well as some classics that have remained coveted for a long time.

According to the RealReal's report on resales, the most popular designer bags of 2019 are Chanel bags, Uk including the Gabrielle and Boy Bags, Louis Vuitton (including Celine Luggage and Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags including the Jackie O & Sukey Tote. The Hermes Birkin bag and the Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by critics and fans.

For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has twists. The strap is tied with knots to add interest to the design. The bag is available in various colors however the black version with gold YSL logo is an iconic.

Loewe's puzzle bag is another bag worth looking into. It combines functionality and sculptural geometry. The geometric-shaped designer handbag, described by its designer as "a work of art" It is said to require 75 separate leather pieces and a lot skill to create. 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 rows of fashion week including the LouLou toy bag. Named in honor of the muse of late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this simple yet impressive crossbody bag is both practical and timeless thanks to its quilting that is directional.

Other designers like Alexander McQueen have seen their bags on many celebrities, from Selena Gomez to Naomi Campbell. The Heroine bag is a boxy yet feminine accessory that could be your next favorite designer bag.

Whether you're looking for a brand new party-ready McQueen clutch or want to make a statement with a Chanel bag These bags are the perfect way to add an element of luxury to your wardrobe. From trending shoulder bags and carry-everywhere satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for all.