The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

Designer bags can be more than a fashion accessory. They can also be a good investment. If you buy an old-fashioned bag and take good care of it its value will increase as time passes.

We've compiled a list of options to help you make a decision. We gathered data from trusted luxury resale sites such as Rebag, The RealReal and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Designer Bags: A Short Histories

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

It was during the 1950s when bags transformed from being practical to a status symbol as more designers entered the market. Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and Hermes quickly gained recognition as designers of beautiful, bold bags. They were sought-after by socialites. The popularity of bags from brands led to the development of iconic styles that can still be seen in a variety of wardrobes.

During WWII the purse designs changed slightly because manufacturers used less metal when making bags for war. The end of the war marked a new era of freedom for young people, and the guidelines regarding what was acceptable to be carried by women were looser. Bags that were once considered unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of wicker or plastic became popular as women were now free to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture as well as hippie attitude were a major influence on fashion trends. A variety of innovative bag designs was created. Designers took advantage of the creative and innovative spirit of the 60s using chains, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these styles were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the libertine, carefree attitude of the era.

In the 1990s designer bags were back on the radar and became a key element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic designs, such as the boxy structured purse, to create more modern and contemporary designs. The YSL Muse bag, for example, was a huge hit during the decade and can still be seen on the arm of celebrities and models today.

Designer bags are usually named after famous Handbag designers people and when they gain a celebrity following sales skyrocket. Hermes bags, for example were named after Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren. These bags became a sought-after accessory for women who wanted their style. When a new fashion becomes an 'It bag', it could take weeks, even months to get your hands on one due to high demand.

Iconic Designer Bags

Classic designer bags can last for a long time, unlike many other fashion trends that are fading at a rapid pace. These timeless, sought-after essentials are a great investment for those who can't be without a designer bag and want to bring some timeless style to their wardrobe.

One of the most famous designer bags available is the Hermes Birkin. The Birkin was first launched in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag became famous when it was seen on the arm of Princess Grace Kelly, who carried the bag across her stomach to conceal the beginning stages of her pregnancy. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long wait lists and is considered to be one of 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 design with tassels and tassels, as well as references to Greek mythology. Celine's luggage tote bag, which gained a lot of attention due to its use by celebrities, influencers and other prominent figures as well as other notable figures, is another designer bag that has gained recognition.

While Valentino's Rockstud bag was once a fashion darling but the brand has now moved away from its signature style and has introduced other iconic bags, including the rectangular Galleria Saffiano tote and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu’s Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts style bag. It was featured on many runways in the past season.

The brand was established in 1952 and is renowned for its fashion-forward clothing with couture details. The brand's signature feminine yet casual aesthetic is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays homage to the brand's most recognizable model. Its soft leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato Knot Clut is a simple clutch that takes eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, that is only available to this Italian label. It is a perfect balance of practicality and elegance, with its streamlined silhouette and minimal hardware.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're a fashion-conscious person you're aware that purses are more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion statement that shows you're a fashion-forward individual with impeccable taste and style. Designer bags are constructed with high-quality materials and have a unique aesthetic.

There are a variety of designer names who create a mark with their beautiful bags. Designer brands such as Louis Vuitton or Chanel are household names, there are many more that are not. Tory Burch, for example is a premium brand known for its feminine women's wear and accessories that exude sophistication. The bags of the brand also offer a perfect balance of function and style. The signature elements are the double-T logo, and classic silhouettes.

Proenza Schouler, Valentino and other luxury fashion brands have also made a mark in the market for designer bags. Proenza Schouler was founded in 2002 and is a modern fashion brand known for its innovative designs and CFDA-awarded styles. The designer handbags discounted bags of the brand showcase a modern take on classic shapes, such as the Gilda Mini Bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury brand that was founded in 1959. The company is renowned for its feminine women's clothes and high-end bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo Bag as well as the Pandora Bag from Givenchy.

Other brands have also developed their own bags that have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based brand that has gained acclaim for its modern and playful approach to bag design. The bags of the brand feature an unique blend of sophistication and whimsy, which makes them popular with young fashionistas.

There are many other designer bags that have made an impact in the world of fashion, such as Moschino and Vivrelle Collective. Vivrelle Collective is a luxury rental service that lets customers to rent designer bags by the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature an array of modern and classic styles and comes with an array of sizes and colors. The company also offers a selection of vegan bags that are becoming more popular among fashion designers.

The Best designer handbags red Bags

A designer bag can be a timeless addition to your closet. The best designer bags of the season are available in a variety shapes, styles and colors, offering something for every occasion. This selection includes a few new items that have impressed fashion experts as well as classics that have been sought-after for years to come.

According to a resale information report by The RealReal, the most popular designer bags of 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). The Hermes Birkin bag and Prada Saffiano Tote are still highly sought-after by the public and the critics.

Bottega Veneta’s Jodie Bag is a contemporary designer bag. The bag is made of the iconic intercciato from the brand however, it has a twist. The strap is tied in 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.

Another option to think about is Loewe's Puzzle bag, that is a combination of functionality and sculptural geometry. Described as "a piece of art" by its creator, the geometric-shaped designer bag reportedly requires 75 separate leather components and a lot of 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 front of the fashion week runways including the LouLou toy bag. This elegant and simple crossbody bag, named after the muse for the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent is both practical and timeless thanks to its directionally stitched.

Many celebrities 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 could be your next designer bag. It's a slim feminine accessory.

These bags will add a dash of luxury to your wardrobe regardless of whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. From trendy shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to spacious designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to have something for anyone.