The Best of Designer Handbags and Purses

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

We've compiled a list of options to assist you in making a decision. We collected data from reputable websites for luxury resales like Rebag, The RealReal, and What Happens Round Comes Around.

The History of Designer Bags

Bags became more fashionable as women started to work outside the home. They were also used to carry makeup, money and other necessities. Bags evolved from pouches worn around the waist as early as Ancient Egypt through a series of modifications in design and function, to what we know as designer handbags.

In the 1950s, as more designers entered into the market, bags began to change from being practical to status symbols. Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermes quickly gained a reputation as designers of beautiful and bold bags. They were sought-after by the elite. The popularity of designer bags resulted in the creation of iconic designs that are still seen in many outfits in the present.

During WWII purse designs changed slightly as manufacturers made use of less metal and other materials in the production of bags needed for war. After the war the young were granted more freedom and a greater choice regarding what women could carry around relaxed. Bags that were once thought to be unfashionable, like drawstring bags made of plastic or wicker, became popular as women were able to explore their own style.

In the 60s, youth culture and hippie attitude influenced fashion trends. A variety of innovative bags were created. Designers took advantage of the creativity and innovation of the 60s using chainmail, vinyl, leather and chains. Many of these designs were inspired by Op Art, space travel and the sexy, libertine attitude of the era.

In the 1990s, designer bags were back in fashion and became a significant element of the fashion industry. Designers reworked classic silhouettes, such as the boxy, structured purse to create more modern and sleek styles. YSL's Muse Bag, for instance, was a huge success in the decade, and is still seen on the shoulders and arms of models and celebrities.

Designer bags are named after famous people. Once they're popular, sales increase. For instance, Hermes bags were named after Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn. These bags became a coveted accessory for women who wished to imitate their style. Due to the high demand, it can sometimes take a few weeks or even months to find one of these bags.

Iconic Designer Bags

In contrast to many fashion trends, which are ablaze at a breakneck speed Classic designer bags have a longevity that can last decades. These timeless, sought-after essentials are an excellent investment for those who can't live without an expensive bag and are looking to add some timeless style to their wardrobe.

Hermes Birkin is among the most well-known designer bags. It was first introduced in 1984 and named in honor of actress Jane Birkin, this iconic bag gained 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. The Birkin bag is highly sought after today, with long waiting lists and is believed to be among the most recognizable designer handbags ever made.

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

Valentino's Rockstud tote bag was once a fashion favorite. However, the brand has since shifted away from its signature style. Instead, it has released other iconic bags, such as the rectangular Galleria Saffiano and the contemporary Cleo. Miu Miu's Metalasse bag, with its ruched design is a reimagined rendition of the aughts bag style. It was seen on many runways in the last season.

Established in 1952, the brand was a pioneer of ready-to-wear clothes with couture details and its signature feminine but casual style is evident in its bags. The Miu Miu Mia Gigi Bag pays tribute to the brand's most famous model. Its supple leather and gold chain strap will elevate any look.

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato Knot Clut is a minimalist clutch that takes around eight hours to weave using the intrecciato technique, which is only available to this Italian label. The sleek shape of the bag and minimalist hardware provide the perfect combination of practicality and elegance.

Designer Bag Brands

If you're an avid fashionista and know what you want, bags can be more than just functional accessories. A designer bag is a fashion accessory that demonstrates you are a trendsetter with impeccable taste and style. These designer handbags women's bags are crafted with high-quality materials and an exclusive design that is distinctive in a crowd.

While the iconic designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel are well-known but there are many more designer brands that have made their mark through beautiful bags. For instance, a luxury fashion brand like Tory Burch is known for feminine women's clothing and accessories that exude sophistication and classic American style. The brand's bags also feature the perfect balance of function and fashion, with signature elements like the double-T logo as well as classic silhouettes.

Other fashion brands that have made a mark with their stylish designer bags include Proenza Schouler and Valentino. Proenza Schouler, which was established in 2002, is a modern brand that is known for its innovative design and CFDA award-winning designs. Designer bags made by the brand are modern interpretations of classic shapes. Examples include the Gilda Mini Box bag and the Antigona Tote. Valentino is a fashion-forward luxury label founded in 1959 is among the oldest brands in the world. The company is best known for its feminine clothing designed for women, as well as popular bags such as the Gabrielle Hobo bag as well as the Givenchy Pandora bag.

Other brands have also created their own bags with designer labels that have become cult favorite. For example, Staud, which was launched in 2018 is a Los Angeles-based company that has gained recognition for its modern and playful style of bag design. Staud's bags are an unmistakable blend of sophistication and whimsy, making them popular among young fashionistas and influencers.

Moschino and Vivrelle Collective are two other designer bags brands that have made a mark in the fashion world. Vivrelle Collective offers a luxury rental service that lets you rent designer bags according to the season. The bags are designed by the company and feature a mix of contemporary and classic styles, and the brand offers a diverse selection of colors and sizes. The company also has various vegan bags that are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion world.

The Best Designer Bags

A designer bag can be an essential addition to your wardrobe. The season's best designer bags are available in a variety shapes and styles and are suitable for every occasion. This edit includes both new designs that have wowed fashion experts as well as some classics that are coveted for a long time.

According to a resale data report from The RealReal, the most popular designer bags in 2019 are Chanel bags (including the Gabrielle and the Boy Bag), Louis Vuitton bags (including the Celine Luggage and the Phantom Bag) and Gucci bags (including the Jackie O and Sukey Tote). Other classics, like the Hermes Birkin Bag and Prada Saffiano Tote remain highly sought after with both fans and critics.

For a more contemporary designer bag, you can look at Bottega Veneta's Jodie Bag. The bag is made of the brand's signature intercciato with twists. The strap is tied in a knot to add an element of interest to the design. The bag is available in a variety of colors, but the black version with gold YSL monogram is a real classic.

The puzzle bag from Loewe is another bag worth considering. It is a combination of functionality and geometric design. The bag is described as "a piece of art" by its creator, the geometric-shaped designer bag is said to require 75 leather components and a lot of skill to create. The bag is a favourite of style influencers, including Beyonce and Sienna Miller.

Yves Saint Laurent is another brand that has had many of its products on the fashion week front rows, including the LouLou Toy bag. The name is a tribute to the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this elegant and simple crossbody bag is practical and timeless due to its directional quilting.

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 could be your new designer handbag. It's a boxy feminine accessory.

These bags will add a touch of elegance to your outfit, whether you're looking to upgrade to a party-ready McQueen bag or want to make a statement with your style by adding an Chanel bag. From fashionable shoulder bags and carry-all-day satchels to roomy designer backpacks, the carefully curated collection of designer bags available at Saks is sure to provide something for everyone.